Condensed guide. Read the full Canada visa and immigration photo (IRCC) requirements or the rejection diagnostic.
Specification
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Pixels at 300 / 600 dpi | 413 × 531 px / 827 × 1063 px |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 31–36 mm |
| Eye line from bottom | not specified |
| Head width | not specified |
| Space above the crown | not specified |
| Background | plain and light |
| Background editing | not allowed (retake instead) |
| Glasses | allowed only with no glare and frames clear of the eyes |
| Expression | neutral, mouth closed |
| Recency | taken in the last 6 months |
| Print requirements | plain photo paper, no borders — Two identical photos with your name and date of birth written on the back; not needed if you give biometrics. |
| Digital upload | 827×1063 px JPEG, 0–4 MB (IRCC online application (where a digital photo is requested)); 827×1063 px JPEG (Printing two 35×45 mm photos for a paper application) |
| Self-taken photos | accepted with conditions (see below) |
| Prints needed | 2 |
| Infant rules | eyes open, mouth may be open (under 1) |
| Official source | IRCC – Visa application photograph specifications |
Check the official source. Some values on this page could not be confirmed from the official page when it was last checked (2026-10-28).
- The IRCC photo specification page returned 404 at the known URL; the visitor visa guide (5256) confirms two photos meeting the specification with name and date of birth on the back, and no photos when biometrics are given. The 35×45 mm size, head 31–36 mm and digital minimum of 420×540 px with a 4 MB cap are from the previous specification page; re-check.
- An eTA requires no photo at all; this page covers visitor visas, study and work permits and permanent residence.
- eTA applications need no photo; biometrics appointments capture the photo for you.
Can I take it myself? Yes, with conditions
IRCC's visa specification is written for photographers (it asks the studio to stamp the back of printed photos), but unlike the Canadian passport it is not enforced for online uploads and most applicants submit a home-taken photo that meets the dimensions. If you are submitting prints, a studio stamp avoids a query. Where biometrics are required, you need no photo because it is captured at the collection point. We sell the product as a digital file for online applications and a print sheet, and we flag the stamp expectation here honestly.
Why Canada visa IRCC photos get rejected
- Head height outside 31–36 mm. Adjust head size until the readout is in band; the measurement is checked.
- Light clothing blending with the background. Wear a darker top.
- Altered photo. No filters or background replacement; retake.
- Glare or tinted glasses. Remove them.
- No name and date of birth on the back. Write them on both prints.
Canada visa IRCC photo FAQ
Does an eTA need a photo?
No. The eTA is an online form with your passport details only; no photo is uploaded.
What size is a Canada visa photo?
35×45 mm with the head 31–36 mm, plain white or light background, taken within six months.
Can I take it myself?
For online uploads, a compliant home photo is accepted in practice. For prints, a studio stamp on the back avoids a query.
Is it the same as the Canadian passport photo?
No. The passport photo is 50×70 mm and must be taken by a photographer; the visa photo is 35×45 mm.
Do I need a photo if I give biometrics?
No. The photo is taken at the biometrics appointment.
What goes on the back of printed photos?
Your name and date of birth, written on the back of both prints.
Related documents
Last verified 2026-10-28 against IRCC – Visa application photograph specifications. Spotted a mistake? Report an error.