CANADA · PASSPORT PHOTO GUIDE
Canada passport photo.
Know the requirements.
Canadian passport photographs must come from a commercial photographer. Use this guide to understand what to ask for before your appointment.
Width × height
Chin to crown
Reflect your current appearance
Applying in person or by mail
Provide two identical, unaltered photos taken in person by a commercial photographer or studio. Use a plain white or light-coloured background, even lighting and a neutral expression. Professional printing is required; home prints are not accepted.
Information on the back
Ask your photographer to follow the official instructions for dating and identifying the studio on the back. Check whether your application needs a guarantor’s certification.
Renewing online
Online renewals use digital photographs. Follow the online-renewal section of the official guide rather than the printed-photo specifications.
Explore the photo format
Open the matching preset below. Standard processing runs on your device. Review the document guidance before uploading or downloading a preview.
A preview is not an approval. Final acceptance is decided by the issuing authority.
Common questions
Can I use a selfie for a Canadian passport?
No. Use a commercial photographer.
Can I clean up the background afterward?
No. Ask your photographer for a retake.
Official references
Official guidance checked 8 October 2026. Requirements can change; check the authority’s instructions before applying.
MULTIPASS is an independent photo tool and is not affiliated with the issuing authority.