🇨🇦 Canada Visa Photos: Size, Background & Latest Requirements
Canada visa photo specifications compiled from official guidance, with common mistakes and a free tool to make a compliant photo. Updated 10/2026.
Canada visa photos are at least 3.5×4.5 cm, on a white or light background, head height 31–36 mm, neutral expression, taken within 6 months. Canadian PR cards and passports use a 5×7 cm size.
Canada visa photo specifications
| Photo size | At least 3.5 × 4.5 cm |
|---|---|
| Head height | 31–36 mm, from chin to top of head |
| Background color | White or light, plain |
| When taken | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Glasses | Glasses allowed if untinted, glare-free and not covering the eyes |
| Canadian PR card / passport | Different size: 5 × 7 cm, head height 31–36 mm |
| Online submission | Online applications usually take the photo at the biometrics appointment (VAC) |
Get it right the first time
Do
- Look straight into the lens, shoulders level
- Even lighting on both sides of the face, no shadows
- Eyes clearly open, mouth closed
- Sharp photo, no filters, no skin smoothing
Common reasons for rejection
- Confusing the visa size (3.5×4.5) with the PR size (5×7)
- Glare on glasses
- Head outside the 31–36 mm range
- Shadows on the background
FAQ
What size is a Canada visa photo?
At least 3.5×4.5 cm, head height 31–36 mm from chin to top of head, on a white or light background.
How is a Canadian PR card photo different from a visa photo?
Canadian PR cards and passports use 5×7 cm photos with their own requirements, a different size from temporary resident visas.
Can I wear glasses for a Canada visa photo?
Yes, if the lenses are untinted, glare-free and do not cover the eyes.
Can I make a Canada visa photo online?
Yes. K-BLACK's free tool automatically removes the background, aligns the head to the Canada visa standard and exports a 300 dpi print file. For important applications, we recommend shooting at the studio to ensure the lighting and pose meet the standard.
Other countries' photo standards
Sources: IRCC – Photo specifications. Requirements may change — please check the latest guidance from the receiving authority before submitting.