Canada · Passport and IRCC Visa
Canadian Passport Photo (50×70 mm): Official Rules, Dimensions and Back of Photo Requirements
5 min read · Reviewed on: 2026-11-08
Direct Answer (Technical Summary)
The Canadian passport photo measures 50 × 70 mm (2 × 2 3/4 inches, or 591 × 827 px at 300 DPI), notably larger than standard Brazilian 3×4 or US 2×2 formats. Official IRCC regulations require the head to measure strictly between 31 mm and 36 mm from chin to crown on a plain white or light-coloured background. For printed passport applications, the back of one photo must include the photographer studio stamp and capture date; online visa applications typically follow separate digital specifications.
Official photo specifications from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
| Official Requirement | Canada Passport Specification | Comparison with Brazilian 3×4 |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Dimensions | 50 mm wide by 70 mm high (2 × 2 3/4 in) | 30 mm × 40 mm (Canadian photo is 66% larger) |
| Digital Dimensions at 300 DPI | 591 × 827 pixels | 354 × 472 pixels |
| Head Height (chin to crown) | Between 31 mm and 36 mm (44% to 51% of photo) | 70% to 80% (Brazilian 3×4 is much closer-up) |
| Background Tone | Plain white or light-coloured uniform background | Uniform white without shadows |
| Recency Requirement | Taken within the last 12 months | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Back of Photo Requirements | Studio name, address and date on back of 1 photo | No back annotation required for Brazil |
1. Exact 50 × 70 mm measurements and head sizing
The Canadian passport photo has one of the most distinctive dimensions in global travel documents: 50 mm wide by 70 mm high. This format is considerably taller than the American 2×2 inch square or the European 35×45 mm size.
IRCC regulations mandate strict head proportions: the distance from the bottom of the chin to the normal top of the head must measure between 31 mm and 36 mm. This leaves ample space around the hair and shoulders, contrasting with tighter biometric standards.
- Dimensions: exactly 50 mm wide by 70 mm high (591 × 827 px at 300 DPI).
- Head size: 31 mm to 36 mm.
- Neutral facial expression with closed mouth and eyes looking straight ahead.
2. The back of the photo requirement for paper applications
When submitting paper applications to Service Canada or Canadian diplomatic missions abroad, two identical printed copies are required.
The back of one photo must clearly indicate the photographer’s commercial studio name, full physical address, and the exact date the photo was taken. If a guarantor is required, they must sign the back of that same photograph attesting to the applicant’s identity.
For online visitor visa or study permit submissions via the IRCC online portal, digital requirements generally request a 35 × 45 mm file without physical back-of-photo stamps.
3. Avoiding confusion with US 2×2 and international sizes
Submitting standard US 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) or Brazilian 3×4 cm photos for a Canadian passport causes immediate application rejection.
PassPhotoFree includes the official Canada 50×70 preset that displays the 31–36 mm biometric guide lines, ensuring your photo complies before you print.
Official Checklist for Canadian Passport Photos
- Exact 50 mm × 70 mm size (591 × 827 px at 300 DPI)
- Head height between 31 mm and 36 mm from chin to crown
- Plain white or uniform light-coloured background with no shadows
- Two identical prints on high-quality photographic paper
- Studio name, address, and date recorded on the back of one print
- Neutral expression with direct camera gaze and no glare on glasses
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a US 2×2 inch photo for a Canadian passport?
No. The Canadian passport demands 50 × 70 mm rectangular prints with a specific 31–36 mm head size. US 2×2 photos will be rejected.
Why must the back of the photo be stamped or dated?
IRCC requires commercial studio verification to confirm the photo was taken recently and professionally.
What size photo is needed for an online Canadian visa (IRCC)?
Online IRCC applications typically require a 35 × 45 mm digital image (minimum 420 × 540 px). Always check your specific application document checklist.
How recent must the Canadian passport photo be?
Photos for Canadian passports must have been taken within the last 12 months.
Related document presets (open editor)
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