Canadian Passport Picture Requirements: What You Need to Know
When it comes to applying for a Canadian passport, one of the most important steps is submitting a suitable passport photo. The Canadian government has specific requirements for passport photos, and failing to meet these requirements can result in delays in processing your passport application. In this article, we will outline the key Canadian passport picture requirements that you need to know before you apply for your passport.
Size and format
First and foremost, Canadian passport photos must be 50 mm x 70 mm (2 inches wide x 2 3/4 inches high) in size. The photos should have a plain white or light-colored background and be printed on high-quality photo paper. It is essential to ensure that the photos are clear and of good quality, as blurry or pixelated photos will not be accepted.
Appearance
When taking your passport photo, make sure that you are facing the camera directly with a neutral expression and your mouth closed. Your eyes should be open and clearly visible, without any glare or reflections on the lenses of your glasses. If you wear prescription glasses, it is recommended to remove them for the photo, as tinted glasses are not allowed. However, if you cannot remove your glasses for medical reasons, you must provide a signed statement from your doctor explaining the necessity of wearing them.
In addition, your hair should be neatly groomed and not covering your face. Hats and head coverings are generally not permitted, except for religious or medical reasons. If you choose to wear a head covering for these reasons, it must not cast any shadows on your face or obscure your facial features.
Photo quality
To meet Canadian passport photo requirements, the photos must be in color and taken within the last six months. The image should be in focus, with no red-eye or shadows on the face. The photos must be printed on plain, high-quality photo paper with a resolution of at least 600 dpi (dots per inch) and be non-reflective.
Background
As mentioned earlier, the background of your passport photo must be plain white or light-colored. It should be free of any patterns, shadows, or other people or objects. The focus should be solely on your face, with no distractions in the background. If you wear a head covering for religious or medical reasons, the head covering must be the same color as the background and not cast any shadows on your face.
Additional requirements
In addition to the above-mentioned requirements, there are a few other things to keep in mind when taking your passport photo. Your face must be evenly illuminated and free of any shadows. You should not tilt your head or have a tilted posture in the photo. Your face should take up 31-36 mm (1 1/4 inches to 1 3/8 inches) of the photo, with the top of your head and the bottom of your chin visible.
It is also crucial to note that Canadian passport photos are biometric, meaning that they will be scanned and used for facial recognition technology. This is why it is important to follow all the requirements and guidelines to ensure that your photo is suitable for use in your passport.
Overall, when taking your passport photo, it is essential to carefully follow all the Canadian passport picture requirements to avoid any delays or issues with your passport application. By ensuring that your photo meets all the criteria outlined by the Canadian government, you can expedite the processing of your passport and have your new passport in hand sooner. Remember, a good passport photo is not only a requirement but also an important step in ensuring that your passport is a valid and reliable form of identification for your travels.
