What are the requirements for a passport photo in Canada?
Canadian passport photos must measure 50 mm x 70 mm (2" x 2¾") with the head occupying 31-36 mm of the height. Additional requirements: plain white/light gray background, neutral expression with eyes fully open and visible, no glasses or headwear (except for religious purposes), high-resolution print without shadows/glare, and taken within the last 6 months.
Can I do my own passport photo Canada?
Yes, self-taken Canadian passport photos are acceptable if they strictly meet all official requirements: 50x70mm size, plain white background, neutral expression, and full-face visibility with even lighting (no shadows or glare). While professional photography isn’t mandatory, our AI-powered tool guarantees 100% compliance and instant validation to avoid application rejections.
What not to wear for a passport photo in Canada?
Avoid white or off-white clothing (e.g., cream, light gray) to ensure contrast with the passport’s white background. Remove non-religious headwear, ensure hair does not obscure facial features (tie back long hair or styles covering ears/forehead), and eliminate glare-prone eyewear. Solid-colored attire is preferred; avoid patterns, uniforms, or clothing resembling official garments. Facial visibility must remain unobstructed.
What is the difference between US passport photo and Canadian passport photo?
In terms of size, a US passport photo should be 2 inches by 2 inches (equivalent to 51 millimeters by 51 millimeters), while a Canadian passport photo needs to be 50 millimeters by 70 millimeters.
Can I smile in a passport photo in Canada?
Per Canadian government regulations, passport photos require a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed. Smiling is prohibited to comply with ICAO standards for biometric verification, ensuring facial recognition systems can accurately authenticate identity and prevent fraud.
Can you wear lipstick in a passport photo in Canada?
Yes, subtle lipstick is permitted in Canadian passport photos as long as it appears natural and does not alter facial contours. Avoid glossy or bright shades that may cause reflections or obscure your natural lip shape. For compliance, ensure makeup remains minimal and does not cast shadows or distort features.
What color shirt for passport photo in Canada?
For Canadian passport photos, wear solid-colored clothing in neutral tones (e.g., gray, blue, beige) that contrasts clearly with the plain white/light background. Avoid white, off-white, or overly dark shades like black, as they may blend into the background and cause compliance issues. Patterns, logos, or textured fabrics are not permitted.