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The Challenge
Canada visa applications require 35×45mm photos (different from 50×70mm passport format). Wrong size = IRCC application rejection.
Canada visa photo ≠ Canada passport photo
- Visa: 35×45mm — Passport: 50×70mm
- Cannot use passport photos for visa applications
- Both use same head height (31-36mm) but different frame sizes
Canada visa photo requirements (IRCC)
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires 35×45mm photos for temporary resident visas (visitor, work permit, study permit), permanent residence applications, and citizenship applications. Same format as EU/UK passport photos. Digital applications accept 826×1062 pixel uploads. Print applications require two identical photos on quality photographic paper.
Canada visa photo requirements - IRCC acceptance
- 35×45mm dimensions (NOT 50×70mm passport size)
- Head height 31-36mm from chin to crown
- Taken within last 6 months
- White or light-coloured plain background
- Face centered, neutral expression, mouth closed
- Eyes open and clearly visible
- Non-tinted prescription glasses allowed (eyes visible, no glare)
- Digital: 826×1062 pixels for online applications
- Print: Quality photographic paper (matte or glossy)
- Name of applicant on photo back (handwritten or printed)
Good vs bad Canada visa photo examples
Digital photo upload for online visa applications
IRCC online application portal accepts 826×1062 pixel JPEG uploads for visitor visas, work permits, study permits, and permanent residence applications. File size typically under 4MB. Upload directly at canada.ca/visa-application. Digital submission eliminates need for printed photos. Processing faster than paper applications (average 2-4 weeks vs 4-8 weeks).
Where to print Canada visa photos
- Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu, Rexall: CAD 10-15
- Costco Photo Centre: CAD 5-8 (members only)
- Local photo studios: CAD 12-20
- Home printing: Use quality matte or glossy photo paper
- Specify '35×45mm' when ordering—not 'passport size' (that's 50×70mm)
Official IRCC Resources
Step-by-Step Workflow
Upload Photo
Position Head (31-36mm)
Select Enhancement
Download Digital or Print
Specifications
- Photo Size
- 35×45 mm
- Digital Format
- 826×1062 pixels
- Head Height
- 31-36 mm (69-80%)
- Background
- White or light-coloured
- Recency
- Within last 6 months
- Expression
- Neutral, mouth closed
- Paper Type
- Quality photographic paper
- Valid For
- Visitor visa, work permit, study permit
Best Practices
- Canada visa is 35×45mm—different from 50×70mm passport format
- Same format as EU/UK passport photos (interchangeable if taken within 6 months)
- Digital upload for online applications: 826×1062px JPEG
- Print applications: Two identical photos with applicant name on back
- No photographer stamp required for visa (unlike passport applications)
- Glasses allowed if non-tinted, eyes visible, no glare
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Canada visa photo requirements?
Canada visa photos must be 35×45mm with head height 31-36mm, white or light background, neutral expression, taken within 6 months. Digital: 826×1062 pixels. Print: two identical photos on quality paper with applicant name on back.
Can I use passport photos for Canada visa?
No. Canadian passport photos are 50×70mm. Visa requires 35×45mm. Different sizes—must create separate photos.
Does Canada visa accept digital photos?
Yes. Online applications at canada.ca accept 826×1062 pixel JPEG uploads. Faster processing than paper applications.
Do I need photographer stamp for visa photo?
No. Visa photos only need applicant name on back. Photographer stamp only required for passport applications.
Can I use EU passport photos for Canada visa?
Yes, if taken within 6 months. EU passports use same 35×45mm format as Canada visas. Ensure head height is 31-36mm.