Canada citizenship photo requirements
| Photo size | 50 × 70 mm (1.97 × 2.76 in) |
|---|---|
| Head height (chin to top of hair) | 31–36 mm |
| Background | plain white or light-coloured |
| Glasses | allowed if eyes are clearly visible with no glare; no sunglasses or tinted lenses |
| Digital file | 420×540 px (minimum) · max 4 MB |
| Taking it yourself | Not accepted: see note below |
Must be taken by a commercial photographer or studio. Citizenship photos do not use the same specifications as passport photos online; printed photos for mail applications are 50 × 70 mm.
Source: official guidance. Rules change; confirm with the issuing authority before you submit.
Online grant application (digital photo)
- At least 420 by 540 pixels.
- JPG or JPEG, about 240 KB and no more than 4 MB, saved directly from the camera without changes.
- Taken by a commercial photographer or studio, no more than 6 months before you apply.
Source: www.canada.ca
Mail application (printed photos)
- 2 identical colour photos, 50 mm wide by 70 mm high (2 × 2¾ in).
- Face 31 to 36 mm chin to crown.
- On the back: your (or the child's) first and last name, the photographer's or studio's name and complete address, and the date taken.
- Taken no more than 6 months before you apply.
Source: www.canada.ca
Appearance
- Plain white or light-coloured background.
- Neutral expression, eyes open and clearly visible, mouth closed, no smiling or frowning.
- Glasses allowed if your eyes are clearly visible with no glare; no sunglasses or tinted glasses.
Source: www.canada.ca
Tips for a photo that passes
- Face the camera straight on with a neutral expression, mouth closed and both eyes open.
- Stand about 50 cm (20 in) in front of a plain wall and face a window for soft, even light, so there are no shadows on your face or behind you.
- Have someone else take the photo at eye level from about 1.2 m (4 ft), rather than a close-up selfie that distorts features.
- Glasses may be allowed, but glare is a common rejection reason; removing them is safest. No hats or head coverings unless worn daily for religious or medical reasons.
- Keep hair away from your eyes and make sure the top of your head and your chin are both visible.