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Canada Passport Photo Requirements: Size, Background and Rules
Canadian passport photo rules — the 50 x 70 mm size, plain white background, the commercial photographer and back-of-photo stamp requirement, face measurements, and what a layout tool can and cannot do.
The short answer
A Canadian passport photo is 50 x 70 mm (2 x 2¾ inches), and you must submit two identical copies taken against a plain white or light-coloured background with a neutral expression and no glasses. The face must measure 31–36 mm from chin to crown, and the photo must be recent (within the last six months).
There is one rule that makes Canada different from the US or UK: the photos must be taken by a commercial photographer, and the back of each photo must show the studio or photographer's name, full address, and the date the photo was taken. Because of this, a fully do-it-yourself photo is generally not accepted for a Canadian passport.
Canada passport photo size and specs
The core specification:
- Size: 50 x 70 mm (2 x 2¾ inches).
- Quantity: Two identical photos.
- Face height: 31–36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top (crown) of the head.
- Background: Plain white or light-coloured, uniform, with no shadows.
The commercial photographer requirement
For Canadian passports, the back of one of the two photos (or an attached label) must include the name and complete address of the photographer or studio and the date the photo was taken. The photos must be originals — not edited or printed at home from a digital file.
This is the main reason a home or app-only photo usually will not be accepted for a Canadian passport: there is no way to add the required photographer back-printing yourself. Plan to visit a photographer who is familiar with Canadian passport specifications.
Expression, glasses and head coverings
Use a neutral expression with the mouth closed and both eyes open and clearly visible. Glasses are not allowed. Head coverings are accepted only when worn for religious or medical reasons, and the full face must remain visible.
The photo must show a clear, front-facing view with even lighting and no red-eye, shadows, or reflections.
What a layout tool can and cannot do for Canada
A browser-based tool like PhotoTools is useful for understanding size and composition, checking head proportions, and preparing or printing passport photos for countries that accept self-supplied photos. It cannot, however, provide the photographer's name, address, and date that Canada requires on the back of the print.
For a Canadian passport specifically, use a commercial photographer who provides compliant prints with the required back-printing. For other countries, or for cropping and resizing a digital copy, the tool still helps.
FAQ
What size is a Canadian passport photo?
50 x 70 mm (2 x 2¾ inches), and you submit two identical copies with the face measuring 31–36 mm from chin to crown.
Can I take a Canadian passport photo at home?
Generally no. Canada requires photos taken by a commercial photographer, with the studio name, address, and date printed on the back — which a home photo cannot provide.
What background does a Canadian passport photo need?
A plain white or light-coloured, uniform background with no shadows.
Are glasses allowed in a Canadian passport photo?
No. Glasses must be removed (a documented medical exception may apply). Head coverings are accepted only for religious or medical reasons with the full face visible.
Official source to check
Confirm the current Canadian passport photo specifications on the Government of Canada website before booking a photographer.