Canada Passport Photo Validation
The current database preset for a Canada passport photo is 50 × 70 mm with a plain white background. The head, from chin to crown, must occupy 44–51% of the photo's height. For digital submission that is 591 × 827 pixels at 300 DPI. The database record was reviewed on 2026-07-13; confirm the current rule with the issuing authority. This workflow does not accept a user-supplied photo through the ordinary maker and paid-download path.
This profile is for requirements and validation guidance; it does not offer a self-prepared paid submission file.
Photo studio or official validation required
This profile is validation-only. Background editing, cropping and output preparation are disabled so the tool does not alter a photo that must remain original or be prepared by a commercial photographer.
What IDPhotoTool can change
Available for this profile
- —
Unavailable for this profile
- × Crop
- × Resize
- × Reposition
- × Background replacement
- × Facial retouching
Background processing is disabled by the recorded restriction for this profile.
Read the recorded official guidance →Canada passport photo requirements
| Size | 50 × 70 mm (1.97 × 2.76 in) |
| Digital size | 591 × 827 px at 300 DPI |
| Background | White |
| Head height | 44–51% of photo height |
| Authority source | Government of Canada (IRCC) ↗Application guide; confirm the photo specification. |
- ✓Photo must be 50 x 70 mm (2 x 2 3/4 inches).
- ✓Head height from chin to crown must be between 31 mm and 36 mm.
- ✓Plain white or light-coloured background.
- ✓Photos must be taken by a commercial photographer for paper applications; digital submissions follow IRCC rules.
- ✓Neutral expression, mouth closed, no smiling.
Database last reviewed 2026-07-13 · see the full requirements database. Always confirm with the issuing authority before submitting your application.
Glasses & head coverings in Canada
Why Canada passport photos get rejected
- ✕Photo not taken by a commercial photographer for paper applications (Canada requires the studio stamp on the back)
- ✕Head size outside 31–36 mm
- ✕Uneven lighting or shadows across the face
- ✕Expression not neutral — mouth must be closed
- ✕Wrong print size: Canada's 50 × 70 mm differs from the common 2×2
More detail in our guide to the 8 most common rejection reasons.
Where to submit your application
Government of Canada (IRCC / Service Canada) ↗
Paper applications still require printed photos with the photographer's information; our print sheet works for the many IRCC digital submissions (visas, permits, citizenship).
Frequently asked questions
Is my photo uploaded to a server?
Cropping, resizing and basic checks are handled in your browser whenever possible. Your photo is uploaded temporarily only when a feature requires server-side processing, and temporary files are automatically deleted.
Will my photo be accepted by the authorities?
The tool crops your photo to the selected document dimensions and places head-position guides based on the current database record. You are responsible for confirming the issuing authority's current rules and following the posing guidance (neutral expression, no glasses, even lighting).
How do I print my passport photo?
The HD download includes a 4×6 inch print sheet with several copies laid out with cut lines. Print it at any pharmacy, photo kiosk or online print service as a standard 4×6 photo, then cut along the lines.
What does the free version include?
You can use the quality checks, cropping, all size presets and background removal where the selected document permits it, then download a watermarked preview for free. The one-time HD purchase removes the watermark and adds the print sheet.
What kind of photo should I start with?
Use a sharp, well-lit photo taken straight-on at eye level, with your full head and shoulders visible and some space around them. Avoid harsh shadows, hats and glasses.