Canada Passport Photo Requirements 2026: Exact 50x70 mm Size and IRCC Rules
Canada passport photo requirements from IRCC and Service Canada: exact 50x70 mm size, face-height rules, photographer back-print requirements, and print-versus-digital guidance.
Overview
Canada uses a unique 50 x 70 mm passport photo format, which is larger than the standard used by most other countries. This specification is set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and applies to Canadian passport applications, citizenship applications, and permanent resident cards.
Canadian passport photos also have a distinctive requirement: many printed submissions still need a commercial photographer or a studio/back-print workflow. That is why Canada should be treated as both a size problem and a submission-mode problem. Use this page together with the passport photo print layouts hub and the passport photo DPI and pixels hub before you export.
Official Specifications
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Document | Passport |
| Size | 50 × 70 mm |
| Background | Light / neutral |
| Head height | 31–36 mm |
The photo must be 50 mm wide and 70 mm tall. The face, measured from chin to natural top of the head (excluding hair), should be between 31 mm and 36 mm. There must be adequate space above the head and below the chin.
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 50 x 70 mm |
| Face height (chin to crown) | 31–36 mm |
| Background | White or light-coloured, plain |
| Color | Full colour or black & white |
| Frame | Full front view, head and shoulders |
| Digital size | 420x540 pixels (minimum) |
| Recency | Taken within last 12 months |
Background Requirements
IRCC requires a plain white or light-coloured background. The background must be uniform with no patterns, shadows, or other objects visible. There should be clear contrast between your face, hair, and the background.
For people with very light or white hair, a slightly off-white or very light grey background is recommended to ensure the hair remains distinguishable from the background.
Contrast Is Key
IRCC specifically notes that photos are rejected when there is insufficient contrast between hair/skin and the background. If you have light hair or skin, ensure the background provides enough distinction.
Clothing and Appearance
You must present a neutral expression with your mouth closed. Both eyes must be open and clearly visible. The photo must show a full front view of your face, head, and shoulders.
- Glasses: Not recommended. Since 2024, IRCC strongly advises against wearing glasses in passport photos due to reflections and shadows. If you must wear them for medical reasons, ensure no glare obscures your eyes.
- Head coverings: Permitted for religious or medical reasons only. Your full face must be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead and from ear to ear.
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed. No smiling.
- Clothing: Should contrast with the background. Avoid white tops if using a white background.
- Hair: Must not cover your face. Ears should ideally be visible.
- Babies and children: Mouth can be slightly open. Eyes must be open. No toys, pacifiers, or other people in the frame.
How to Make It with Passlens
Passlens supports the unique Canadian 50 x 70 mm format. Create your compliant photo in minutes without visiting a studio.
- Open Passlens and select the Canada Passport preset.
- Take a photo with head and shoulders visible, or upload an existing image.
- Passlens crops to the exact 50 x 70 mm ratio and validates face height (31–36 mm).
- AI background removal creates a clean white background that meets IRCC standards.
- Review the compliance report for head centering, face dimensions, and background uniformity.
- Download for online submission, or generate a print-ready sheet. For printed submissions, add the photographer details on the back.
Where to Submit
Canadian passport applications are processed by Service Canada offices and IRCC. You can apply in person, by mail, or online (for renewals):
- In person: Visit a Service Canada office or a passport office. Bring two identical printed photos.
- By mail: Send your application with two printed photos to the Passport Program.
- Online (renewals only): Upload a digital photo through the IRCC portal. Available for eligible adult renewals.
| Service | Timeline | Cost (2026 CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Regular (in person) | 10 business days | $120 (5-year) / $160 (10-year) |
| Regular (by mail) | 20 business days | $120 (5-year) / $160 (10-year) |
| Urgent (in person) | Next business day | Additional $110 |
| Express (in person) | 2–9 business days | Additional $50 |
Common Mistakes
IRCC is particular about its unique photo format. Here are the most common reasons Canadian passport photos are rejected:
- Wrong dimensions — Using the more common 35x45mm format instead of the Canadian 50x70mm size.
- Missing photographer details — For printed submissions, the back of the photo must include the photographer’s name, address, and date taken.
- Glasses glare — Reflections in lenses that obscure the eyes. Best to remove glasses entirely.
- Red eye — Caused by flash photography. Use natural light.
- Insufficient contrast — Light hair blending into a white background.
- Incorrect head size — Face must be 31–36 mm from chin to crown.
- Photo older than 12 months — Must reflect your current appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Canadian passport photo bigger than others?
Canada has historically used the 50 x 70 mm format, which predates the ICAO standardization of 35 x 45 mm. IRCC has maintained this size for consistency with existing infrastructure and systems. The larger format also accommodates the requirement to show head and shoulders.
Do I need a professional photographer?
For printed submissions, IRCC requires photographer details on the back of the photo. For online submissions, you can take the photo yourself as long as it meets all technical specifications. Passlens can help you create a compliant digital photo at home.
Can I use a Canadian passport photo for a US visa?
No. The US requires a 51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 inch) photo, which is a different size and aspect ratio from the Canadian 50 x 70 mm format. You will need a separate photo for each application.
Can I wear a toque or winter hat in my photo?
No. Non-religious head coverings are not permitted. Toques, baseball caps, beanies, and fashion hats must all be removed. Only head coverings worn daily for sincerely held religious beliefs are allowed.