Photo Requirements for Canadian Passport
Overview
Applying for a Canadian passport requires more than filling out forms — your photo must meet strict specifications. This guide covers every rule from size and composition to printing and special cases for babies, so you can prepare compliant passport photos and avoid delays.
Size guidelines
The official photo size for a Canadian passport is 5 x 7 cm (50 x 70 mm, or 2 x 2¾ inches). The height of your face within the image must measure 31–36 mm (1 ¼–1 7/16 inches). Make sure your photographer knows these exact measurements.
Where photos must be taken
Passport photos must be taken in person by a studio or a commercial photographer. Amateur or at-home photos that are not produced by a commercial photographer do not meet the stated requirement.
Printing and copies
Photos must be printed on plain, high-quality photographic paper. You are required to submit two identical copies of your passport photo.
Date of photo
Your passport photo must have been taken within the last six months before you submit your passport application.
Back-of-photo requirements and guarantor
On the back of each photo there must be the full address of the photo studio, plus the handwritten statement: “I certify this to be the true likeness of” followed by your full name. The back must also show the signature of the guarantor at the bottom or a studio stamp. Note: adults renewing a passport using the Simplified Renewal application form do not need a guarantor.
Background
The background must be white or light-colored. Avoid any backgrounds that create visible patterns, shadows, or uneven lighting.
Facial position and expression
You must look straight into the camera with a neutral facial expression. Smiling, frowning, or tilting your head are not allowed. Your whole face should be visible, centered, and include the top of your shoulders.
Natural appearance and features
Your natural facial features, skin tone, and eye color must be clearly visible and true to life in the photo.
Headwear rules
Headwear is only permitted for religious or medical reasons. If worn, it must not cast any shadows on your face. Remove hats, headbands, and other non-religious head coverings before the photo.
Glasses policy
Prescribed glasses are allowed as long as they do not produce glares or reflections and your eyes are clearly visible. Sunglasses and tinted glasses are not permitted.
Photo quality
Photos must be in focus with good, even lighting. Glares, reflections, and shadows on the face or background are unacceptable.
Baby and toddler photos
Children’s photos must follow the same size and quality rules as adults. The photo should show only the child’s head and the top of the shoulders. The child’s or photographer’s hands must not appear in the shot. While a neutral expression is required, some slight variations are acceptable for babies.
Newborn-specific guidance
A newborn may be photographed while placed in a car seat with a white cloth background, but there must be no shadows on the baby’s face, shoulders, ears, or in the background.
Commercial photographer for children
Canadian baby passport photos must be taken by a commercial photographer. It is recommended to choose a photographer experienced in official baby photos to ensure compliance.
Practical preparation steps
- Book a session with a commercial photographer and confirm they know Canadian passport measurements (5 x 7 cm; face height 31–36 mm).
- Request two identical prints on plain, high-quality photographic paper.
- Ask the studio to print their full address on the back and to include the required handwritten guarantor statement and guarantor signature or studio stamp.
- If you’re renewing using the Simplified Renewal form and are an adult, tell the studio you do not need a guarantor signature.
Tips to avoid common mistakes
- Do not smile or tilt your head; keep a neutral expression and look straight at the camera.
- Remove non-religious headwear and sunglasses. If you wear prescription glasses, check for reflections before printing.
- Ensure even lighting to avoid shadows on the face or background.
- Verify the photo was taken within six months and that the studio prints on plain photographic paper.
- For babies, ensure no hands are visible, use a plain white background, and avoid any shadows.
Quick compliance checklist (actionable)
- Photo size: 5 x 7 cm (50 x 70 mm)
- Face height: 31–36 mm
- Taken by a commercial photographer/studio in person
- Taken within 6 months
- Two identical copies on plain, high-quality photographic paper
- White or light-colored background; good lighting; in focus
- Neutral expression; face centered; top of shoulders visible
- No sunglasses; prescribed glasses allowed if no glare; headwear only for religious/medical reasons with no shadows
- Back of each photo: studio address + “I certify this to be the true likeness of” (full name) + guarantor signature or stamp (unless Simplified Renewal where adult guarantor not required)
Where to check for more information
For any details not covered here or to confirm the most current rules, visit the official website of the Government of Canada.
Optional tool for making compliant photos
If you prefer a digital aid, the source mentions Passport Photo Maker, a professional ID photo processing tool with auto-crop and facial recognition features and templates for many countries. It can help ensure your photos meet Canadian passport rules before printing. Use it only in combination with a commercial photographer and high-quality photographic paper to meet the in-person and printing requirements.
By following these specifications and steps, you’ll minimize the risk of having your passport application delayed because of an unacceptable photo.