Canada · not possible online
Canada Passport Photo (50×70 mm)
Canada Passport photos can't be made online: Canada requires a commercial photographer, and even cropping counts as an altered photo. Here is what the official rules say (50×70 mm, head 31–36 mm from chin to crown, white or light-coloured background, taken within 6 months), and how to get a photo that is accepted the first time.
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Where to get it instead
Why online tools don't work: Canada requires a commercial photographer, and even cropping counts as an altered photo.
“be taken in person by a commercial photographer or photo studio”Official guidance
Book a photo studio or a pharmacy photo counter that takes Canada Passport photos, and bring the requirements below so you can check the photo before you leave.
Official requirements
- Print size
- 50×70 mm
- Head size
- The height of your face must measure between 31 mm (1¼ inches) and 36 mm (1⁷⁄₁₆ inches)
- Background
- be taken against a plain white or light-coloured background
- Glasses
- Eyes clearly visible, no glare; no sunglasses or tinted glasses (incl. prescription).
- Head covering
- hats and head coverings worn daily for religious beliefs or medical reasons; full face visible, no shadows.
- Expression
- neutral; eyes open, not smiling or frowning
- Taken within
- 6 months
Source: canada.ca. Last checked Nov 7, 2026.
What counts as an altered photo
“be an original photo that isn't altered or edited in any way. We'll reject your application if the photos have been altered in any way.”Official rule
“cropping around the head and shoulders … changing the background, including removing shadows”Official example of an altered photo
Canada Passport photo questions
Can I take my own Canada Passport photo at home?
No. The official rules require the photo to be taken by a professional or on site. The official guidance: “be taken in person by a commercial photographer or photo studio”
Can I wear glasses in my Canada Passport photo?
The official rule: “Eyes clearly visible, no glare; no sunglasses or tinted glasses (incl. prescription).”
Can I smile in my Canada Passport photo?
The official rule: “neutral; eyes open, not smiling or frowning.”
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
The official rule: “hats and head coverings worn daily for religious beliefs or medical reasons; full face visible, no shadows.”
How recent must the photo be?
It must have been taken within the last 6 months.
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