What size is a Canadian passport photo in 2026?

The Canadian passport photo size is 50 x 70 mm (2 x 2.75 inches, or 5 x 7 cm). This is unique to Canada — larger than the 35x45mm used by most countries.

What are the Canadian passport photo dimensions in inches?

2 x 2.75 inches (50 x 70 mm). Note this is a rectangular photo, not the square US 2x2 inch size.

What is the head size requirement for a Canadian passport photo?

The face measured from chin to the top of the head must be between 31 mm and 36 mm. The head should fill approximately 56-86% of the 70mm photo height.

Can I wear glasses in my Canadian passport photo?

It is not recommended. If you must, ensure no glare and your eyes are fully visible. Tinted lenses are prohibited.

Does my Canadian passport photo need a guarantor signature?

Yes, one of the two required photos must be signed and dated by your guarantor on the back, along with the statement 'I certify this to be a true likeness of [name]'.

How many photos do I need for a Canadian passport application?

Two identical photos taken within the last 12 months. One must be signed by a guarantor.

Can I use a digital photo for an online Canadian passport renewal?

Online renewals currently require uploading a digital photo that meets IRCC specifications: 420x540 to 4500x5700 pixels, JPEG/PNG, up to 5 MB.

Can I take a Canadian passport photo at home?

Yes, as long as it meets all specifications: 50x70mm, white background, neutral expression, 31-36mm head height, and is signed by a guarantor on the back.

Canada Passport Photo

Size & Requirements 2026 · Last updated: 2026-05-11

Photography Guidelines

1 Taken within the last 12 months
2 Plain white background with no shadows
3 Neutral expression with mouth closed
4 Face must be square to the camera
5 Glasses are not recommended; if worn, eyes must be clearly visible with no glare
6 Head coverings only for religious or medical reasons
7 Face measurement from chin to crown: 31-36 mm
8 Photo must be signed on back by guarantor (one of two copies)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect dimensions

Canadian passport photos are 50x70mm, not the US 2x2 inch size

Shadows on background

Background must be uniformly white with no shadows

Expression not neutral

Must have a neutral expression; smiling is not allowed

Missing guarantor signature

One of the two required photos must be signed and dated by your guarantor on the back

Using photo older than 12 months

Canadian passport photos must be taken within the last 12 months

How to Take Your Photo

Three ways to get a compliant photo — choose what works for you.

DIY at Home

Take it yourself with a camera or smartphone — the cheapest option.

1 Stand against a plain, smooth, light-colored wall with even daylight from the front.
2 Use a tripod or steady surface so the camera is level with your eyes, ~1.5 m away.
3 Wear normal clothes that contrast with the background and remove glasses or hats.
4 Keep a neutral expression with closed mouth and both eyes clearly visible.
5 Take several shots, pick the sharpest, then crop to the official size and DPI.
6 Save as the required file format and check file-size limits before submitting.

Using Your Smartphone

Best lighting, framing, and tips for iPhone and Android.

1 Use the rear camera (higher quality) and ask someone else to take the photo.
2 Stand 1–1.5 m from a plain wall; turn off flash and use natural daylight.
3 Tap to focus on the face and lock exposure so lighting stays consistent.
4 Frame head and shoulders so the head fills 50–70% of the height.
5 Avoid filters, beauty mode, and HDR — they distort facial features.
6 Crop to the exact ratio in a free tool, export at the required DPI.

With Our Online Service

Upload a photo and get a compliant version in seconds.

1 Upload any clear, recent photo — selfie or full-body works.
2 Our AI auto-detects the face, removes the background, and applies the correct color.
3 It crops to the exact official dimensions for your selected document.
4 A compliance check flags head size, expression, lighting, and shadow issues.
5 Preview the result and retake free if anything looks off.
6 Download the digital file or order printed copies.

Price Comparison

Common ways to get a passport photo, side by side.

Provider	Cost	Delivery	Notes
DIY at Home	Free	Instant	Requires a printer for hard copies
Local Photo Studio	$10–$20	Same day	Quality varies; not always compliance-checked
Pharmacy / Retailer	$10–$15	Same day	Convenient, but limited retake policies
Our Online Service	Free preview	Instant	AI compliance check, free retakes

Recommended Tools

PhotoGov

AI-powered Canadian passport photo maker

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Frequently Asked Questions

Official References

Information on this page is based on the following official sources:

Government of Canada - Passport photos