Canadian passport photo requirements (50×70 mm)
Last reviewed July 19, 2026 by the My New ID Photo editorial team. Rules change—confirm details with the issuing authority before you apply.
Written and reviewed by the My New ID Photo editorial team.
Practical notes for applicants and travelers. This is not legal advice—compare every requirement with the official checklist linked below.
Passport Canada provides a printable template to verify head size—use it after exporting from our tool.
Vertical dimensions
The finished photo is 50 mm wide by 70 mm high. The height of your face (chin to top of head) must fall within the range stated on the official diagram. Eyes must be positioned within the allowed band.
Expression and attire
Neutral expression; mouth closed. Plain clothing; no white headwear that merges with the background unless for daily religious wear. Face fully visible.
Background and lighting
Plain white or light-coloured background. Brightness and contrast must show natural skin tones. No shadows behind the head.
Common rejection and upload quirks
A Canadian passport application requires two identical photos if you submit a paper form, and one of them must be signed on the back by a guarantor who has known you for at least two years. The photo size is 50×70 mm with a head height of 31–36 mm. The online passport application accepts a digital photo, but the requirements are different from the paper version—check the pixel and file size limits carefully. No smiling, keep a neutral expression, and make sure eyes are clearly visible. Religious head coverings are allowed if they do not obscure facial features.
Printing and submission tips
Major drugstores, warehouse clubs, and photo labs can print Canadian passport photos. Specify the exact 50×70 mm size rather than a generic passport option. The print should be on matte or glossy photo paper with no border. For home printing, use a 4×6 inch sheet and print at 100% scale, then cut carefully. Do not let the printer fit to page or add margins, as that can shrink the head height below the required range.
How our tools handle tricky backgrounds
Canadian photos need a neutral expression and even lighting, but the background also has to be plain. If you cannot shoot against a blank wall, use background removal to composite the required colour, then use Edge Refine for any remaining fringe around the shoulders.
Making this photo in My New ID Photo
Choose Canada and Passport for the 50×70 mm vertical format. Passport Canada’s template is strict about chin-to-crown height and eye position—use the face overlay to line up. Export for professional printing on matte or glossy paper without borders.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need two photos for a Canadian passport?
- For paper applications, yes, and one must be signed by a guarantor. Online applications use a digital photo instead.
- Can someone else sign the back of my photo?
- Yes, it must be a guarantor who has known you for at least two years and is eligible to sign.
- What if I wear a religious head covering?
- Head coverings are allowed if they do not cast shadows on your face and your facial features are clearly visible from forehead to chin.
Official sources
We link to primary sources where possible. Embassy pages, PDF checklists, and ICAO references are listed so you can read the wording yourself—not rely on a summary alone.
Related guides for this country
Reminder: Embassies and motor vehicle offices update photo rules without notice. Re-read the official page on the day you submit.
Open the generator, browse all country guides, or read the general requirements overview.