Canadian Passport Photo Requirements: 2026 Guide
A passport photo is a small rectangle with a lot riding on it. We shoot to the current Canadian specifications at our Jean Talon studio, so your application does not come back.
Passport Photo: Quick Specs
- Photo Size
- 50 mm x 70 mm
- Face Height
- 31–36 mm, chin to crown
- Background
- Plain white or light, no shadows
- Number of Photos
- Two identical prints
- Taken Within
- Last 6 months
- Expression
- Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open
- Glasses
- Removed — no glare, eyes visible
- Back of Photo
- Studio name, address, date
Two decades at our Jean Talon studio have taught us the Canadian passport photo requirements and the small traps that catch even seasoned travellers. The rules are strict, occasionally surprising, and they change. One misstep and your application sits in a queue for weeks.
What the Photo Has to Look Like
Two photos, identical twins rather than cousins, both taken within the last six months. No exceptions. The dimensions are unforgiving: 50 mm wide by 70 mm high, accurate to the millimetre. Your face, chin to crown, must measure between 31 mm and 36 mm. Too big, too small, or too much shadow and it comes back.
The background is a blank canvas: white or pale, nothing behind you, no shadows, no patterns, no gradients. The paper must be high quality, glossy or matte, but always crisp. No digital retouching either. No smoothing, no filters, no creative liberties.
How to Present Yourself
Expression: neutral. Not a hint of a smile, not a frown. Eyes wide open, mouth closed. Imagine being told a joke and trying not to react. That is the look. Your head faces the camera straight on, not a degree off centre, shoulders squared, posture natural.
Glasses are allowed only if they are prescription, and even then with no glare and no tint. Your eyes must be visible, not hidden behind reflections. If they are medically necessary, bring a note from your doctor. Head coverings are permitted for religious or medical reasons, with documentation, and only if your face stays fully visible.
Specifications at a Glance
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Photo Size | 50 mm x 70 mm (2" x 2.75") |
| Face Size | 31-36 mm (1.25"-1.75") chin to crown |
| Background | Plain white or light-coloured; no shadows |
| Number of Photos | Two, identical, unaltered |
| Recency | Taken within the last six months |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open |
| Glasses | No tinted lenses; no glare; eyes visible |
| Head Coverings | Religious/medical only, with documentation |
| Photo Quality | Sharp, clear, no digital alteration |
| Photographer Info | Name, address, date on back of one photo |
| Guarantor (if needed) | Signature and statement on back of one photo |
What We See Go Wrong
Someone once arrived clutching a set of photos from a popular chain. The size was off by a few millimetres. Rejected. Another tried to sneak in a subtle smile: photos returned, application stalled. Even faint shadows can sink a submission. Following the rules is not enough on its own, you have to know the quirks.
A white shirt against a white background gives you a floating head, which is confusing and easily rejected. We recommend darker, solid tops for contrast. These are the details that get overlooked, and they are the ones that make the difference.
Examples: Acceptable vs. Unacceptable Photos
Acceptable: Neutral expression, plain background, clear glasses.
Unacceptable: Smile, tinted glasses, hair accessory, dark background.
Why Photo Jovial?
We know the Canadian passport photo rules well enough that you do not have to. Every photo is checked, measured, and stamped on the back with our name, address and the date. If you are unsure about anything, ask. The goal is simple: accepted the first time.
Official Resources
For the most current Canadian passport photo requirements, always refer to the Government of Canada's official passport photo page and the official photo specification PDF.
Pro Tips
- 1Submit two identical 50x70mm photos with correct face sizing (31-36mm chin to crown).
- 2Ensure a plain white or light-coloured background, free of shadows and patterns.
- 3Maintain a neutral facial expression with eyes open, mouth closed, and face directly to the camera.
- 4If wearing glasses, ensure lenses are clear and free of glare; head coverings are for documented religious/medical reasons only, with face fully visible.
- 5Photos must be recent (taken within the last 6 months) and unaltered digitally.
- 6One photo must have the photographer's name, address, and date taken on the back.
- 7Always verify current requirements on the official Government of Canada passport website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Canadian passport photo?
A Canadian passport photo must be 50 mm wide by 70 mm high, with the face measuring between 31 and 36 mm from chin to crown. You must submit two identical prints taken within the last six months.
Do I need an appointment for passport photos?
No appointment is needed. Photo Jovial takes walk-ins at our Jean-Talon studio in Montreal, and your passport photos are printed and ready in about 10 minutes.
Can I wear glasses in a Canadian passport photo?
No. Glasses must be removed for Canadian passport photos. This rule has applied since 2016, and photos showing eyewear are rejected even when there is no glare.
Need passport photos?
Come to our Jean Talon studio for passport photos that meet every Canadian requirement, guaranteed.