🇨🇦 Canada passport photo: size and requirements
50 × 70 mm, plain white background, head 31–36 mm. Make yours below. Your photo never leaves your device.
JPG, PNG, WebP, AVIF, HEIC, GIF, BMP. Stays on this device.
Canada passport photo requirements
| Photo size | 50 × 70 mm (1.97 × 2.76 in) |
|---|---|
| Pixels at 300 dpi | 591 × 827 px |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 31–36 mm |
| Background | Plain white |
| Online upload | At least 1200 × 1800 px, up to 3000 × 4500 px, 200 KB to 5 MB. Online renewal: 3:2 portrait JPEG saved straight from the camera, head 45 to 50% of the height. Scans of prints are not accepted. |
| Editing | The official page says the photo must not be altered by software. Replacing the background counts as an edit, so keep your original background if it is already plain and light. |
| Source | Government of Canada: Passport photos · verified 2026-10-24 |
Rules to follow
- Two identical photos are required for paper applications, taken within the last 6 months.
- Plain white or light-coloured background with clear contrast to the face, uniform lighting, no shadows.
- Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open.
- Paper photos must be professionally printed, and home prints are not accepted. Studio details on the back are not produced by this tool.
Common reasons photos are rejected
- Wrong dimensions
- Face not centered
- Uneven lighting
- Wrong background colour
Our live checks flag most of these before you pay.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Canada passport photo?
50 × 70 mm (1.97 × 2.76 inches), which is 591 × 827 pixels at 300 dpi.
What background colour is required?
Plain white. The background should be even, with no shadows, patterns or objects.
How big should my head be in the photo?
The head, measured from chin to the top of the head, should be between 31 and 36 mm.
Can I take the photo at home?
Generally yes, if it meets the rules above. Use even daylight, a plain wall, and have someone else take it at eye level. Always confirm with the issuing authority.
SelfPassPhoto is not affiliated with any government. Requirements change; the issuing authority's current guidance always takes precedence.