Everything you need to know about Canadian passport photos based on IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) guidelines. Create a free, compliant 50 × 70 mm passport photo with Kindro in under a minute.
What size is a Canadian passport photo?
Canadian passport photos must be exactly 50 mm wide by 70 mm tall (approximately 2 by 2.75 inches). This is different from the US standard of 2 by 2 inches. At 300 DPI, the digital dimensions are 591 by 827 pixels. Do not use 2 by 2 inch photos for a Canadian passport — they will be rejected.
What background colour is required?
IRCC requires a plain white or light grey background. No patterns, textures, shadows, or other objects should be visible. The background must be uniform with no gradients. Kindro automatically removes your background and replaces it with pure white.
Can I wear glasses in my Canadian passport photo?
No. Since November 2019, IRCC does not allow glasses in passport photos. This applies to prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses. The only exception is if you have a medical certificate stating you cannot remove your glasses, and even then there must be no glare on the lenses.
What is a guarantor and do I need one?
A guarantor is someone who has known you for at least two years and holds a valid Canadian passport. For passport applications, one of your two photos must be signed on the back by your guarantor with the statement: "I certify this to be a true likeness of [your full name]." The guarantor must also include their own name and signature.
How do I take a passport photo of an infant or baby?
Lay the infant on a plain white blanket or sheet. Take the photo from directly above. The baby's eyes must be open and looking toward the camera. No pacifiers, toys, hands, or other people should be visible. For children under 16, the photo can be up to 12 months old (instead of the standard 6 months for adults).
Can I take my Canadian passport photo with my phone?
Yes. Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone or Android) has more than enough resolution for a passport photo. Use natural lighting, face the camera directly, and keep a neutral expression. Kindro handles the rest — background removal, face centring, and formatting to 50 by 70 mm at 300 DPI.
What is the required face height in a Canadian passport photo?
The face height from chin to the natural top of the head (crown, not hair) must be between 31 mm and 36 mm. This is strictly enforced by IRCC. If the face is too large or too small in the frame, the photo will be rejected. Kindro automatically scales and centres your face to meet this requirement.
How long does IRCC take to process a passport?
Standard processing takes approximately 20 business days when submitted in person at a Service Canada office. Mail-in applications take longer — typically 6 to 8 weeks. Expedited service (10 business days) and urgent pick-up (next business day) are available at passport offices for additional fees.
What are the digital upload specifications for online applications?
For online passport renewal, IRCC accepts digital photos in JPEG format, between 1 MB and 5 MB, with minimum dimensions of 420 by 540 pixels. The photo must meet all the same requirements as a printed photo (white background, neutral expression, no glasses). Kindro produces photos at 591 by 827 pixels at 300 DPI, which exceeds IRCC digital requirements.
How recent does my passport photo need to be?
For adults, the photo must be taken within the last 6 months. For children under 16, the photo can be up to 12 months old. The photo must accurately represent your current appearance — significant changes in weight, hairstyle, or facial features may require a new photo.