Canada photo requirements

Canada photo requirements are set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). We publish 6 documents: 2 passports, 1 visa, 1 residence permit and 2 citizenship documents. The most common print size is 50 x 70 mm (1.97 in x 2.76 in); 3 documents accept a digital upload. Each page quotes the official rule for size, head height, background and file, links the source we read, and shows the date we last checked it (most recently 2026-10-07).

Passports

Canadian Passport PhotoFor a Canadian passport applied for in person or by mail (new adult passports and paper renewals). Not for an online renewal, which uses a digital photo, and not for a Canadian visa or PR card, which are 35 x 45 mm.50 x 70 mmplain white or light-coloured backgroundverified 2026-09-30
Canadian Passport Photo (digital, online renewal)For the digital photo uploaded when renewing an adult Canadian passport online. Not for in-person or mailed applications, which need two 50 x 70 mm prints, and not for a visa, PR card or citizenship application.1200 x 1800 pxplain white or light-coloured background with a clear difference between your face and the backgroundverified 2026-10-07

Visas

Canada Visitor Visa Photo (TRV, 35 x 45 mm)For the two printed photos sent with a paper temporary resident (visitor) visa application. Not for a Canadian passport or PR card, which are 50 x 70 mm, and not needed at all if you give biometrics, because IRCC takes your photo then.35 x 45 mmplain white or light-coloured backgroundverified 2026-10-07

Residence permits

Canada Permanent Resident Card Photo (50 x 70 mm)For the photos sent with a permanent resident card application, renewal or replacement (IMM 5444, guide 5445): two 50 x 70 mm prints for a paper application, or one digital photo plus an image of its back (or the studio receipt) uploaded in the Permanent Residence Portal. Not for a visitor visa, which is 35 x 45 mm, and not for a passport, which uses the same size but a different back-of-photo stamp.50 x 70 mmplainverified 2026-10-07

Citizenship documents

Authorities and portals

Passport authority: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Sources we read: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Upload portals: IRCC and Service Canada: known issues Official page

Where to print locally

Compare passport photo prices in Canada: shop prices against printing our sheet yourself.

We are an independent service, not a government website. Applying for a passport or visa is done with your government; we only prepare the photo.