The Ultimate Guide to Canada Permanent Resident Photo Requirements (2024)

Applying for permanent residency in Canada is a monumental step, but even the smallest details—like your application photos—can drastically impact your timeline. A single non-compliant photograph can lead to application refusal or significant delays.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the complex rules into simple, actionable steps, ensuring you meet every Canada permanent resident photo requirements for a smooth submission.

Canada Permanent Resident Photo Requirements: The Non-Negotiable Checklist

Meeting the Canada permanent resident photo requirements is mandatory for all applicants seeking permanent status or renewing their Permanent Resident (PR) card. These rules are non-negotiable and apply whether you are applying for initial landing, a new PR card, or replacement documentation.

If you are unsure whether your photos meet the standard, always err on the side of caution and use a professional service that guarantees compliance with Canada immigration permanent resident photo requirements.

1. Canada Permanent Resident Photo Specification and Size (The Dimensions)

Adhering to the specific Canada permanent resident photo specification is critical. Unlike standard passport photos, Canadian immigration photos have unique dimensional requirements that must be followed precisely.

Physical Photo Size:

The physical print of your photo must meet these dimensions exactly:

Requirement	Specification
Finished Photo Size	50 mm x 70 mm (2 inches wide x 2 ¾ inches long)
Head Height	The height of the face (from chin to the natural crown of the head) must measure between 31 mm and 36 mm (1 ¼ inches and 1 ⁷⁄₁₆ inches).
Photo Border	The photo must have a plain, white, uninterrupted border.
Quantity	Applicants typically need two (2) identical photos.

Technical Specifications:

Canada permanent resident photo size must also maintain strict technical quality standards:

• Clarity and Sharpness: Photos must be clear, crisp, and in focus. No digital enhancements, filters, or modifications are permitted.
• Color: Photos must be produced on high-quality photographic paper with a matte or low-lustre finish. They must be in color.
• Age: The photos must have been taken within the last six (6) months of the application date.

2. Permanent Resident Picture Requirements: Background and Pose

Following the strict permanent resident picture requirements ensures your photo is a true, unbiased representation of your appearance. The primary goal is identification; thus, your face must be fully visible and centered.

Background:

• Color: The background must be plain white or off-white.
• Texture: The background must be seamless, without shadows, patterns, or objects visible (including photo props or stands).

Facial Expression and Lighting:

• Expression: You must maintain a neutral facial expression (no smiling, frowning, or extreme expressions). Your mouth must be closed.
• Lighting: Lighting must be uniform, without glare, hotspots, or shadows across the face or background. Red-eye is unacceptable.
• Focus: Both ears and the entire face must be clearly visible and in focus.

Headwear and Glasses:

• Head Covering: Head coverings (hats) are generally not allowed unless worn daily for religious or medical reasons. If worn, the full face must still be clearly visible, and the head covering must not cast any shadows.
• Glasses: Prescription glasses are permitted only if the frame does not obscure any part of the eyes and there is no glare on the lenses. Sunglasses are prohibited.

3. Canadian Permanent Residency Photo Size: Certification and Signatures

The Canadian permanent residency photo size and quality are only half the battle; proper certification is key, especially for paper-based submissions or when applying for the PR card.

Photographer Requirements:

One of the two identical photos must be certified by the photographer or professional who printed the photo. This professional must be independent and not related to the applicant.

The signature and stamp must appear on the back of one photo and include specific information:

1. Professional’s Name and Address: The complete name and address of the studio or business.
2. Date of Photo: The exact date the picture was taken (date stamp).
3. Certification Statement: A statement confirming that the likeness is a true photo of the applicant.

Note: For online applications that require a Canada permanent resident digital photo requirements file, the certification steps may vary or be replaced by a required digital signature/confirmation by the photo service provider.

4. Understanding Canada Permanent Resident Digital Photo Requirements

While physical photos are standard for many applications, the Canada permanent resident digital photo requirements apply primarily to online portals (like the IRCC Portal). If you submit a digital photo, it must be scannable and adhere to strict file standards.

• File Format: JPEG or PNG (usually JPEG).
• Resolution: Must be equivalent to the physical size (2” x 2 ¾”) at a high resolution (at least 600 DPI recommended).
• File Size: Typically 4 MB or less (always check the specific application portal, as this can change).

A digital photo still requires a professional photo lab to confirm that the dimensions and quality meet the 50 mm x 70 mm standards before they provide the digital file.

5. Where to Find Canada Permanent Resident Photo Near Me or Online

If you’re wondering, “Where can I get a Canada permanent resident photo near me?” you have a few reliable options. Since these photos require specific measurements and written certification, going to a general photo booth is highly discouraged.

In-Person Professional Services:

• Dedicated Immigration Photo Studios: These studios specialize in the exact specifications for Canadian immigration and guarantee compliance.
• Major Retail Pharmacy Chains: Many large pharmacy chains offer specific services for Canadian PR, citizenship, and passport photos (e.g., Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart Photo Centre).
• Authorized IRCC Photo Centers: Use the IRCC guidelines to find photographers familiar with the rules.

Online Services:

For applicants who prefer convenience, several reputable canada permanent resident photo online services allow you to upload a selfie taken against a white wall. These services then adjust the size, lighting, and background digitally, print the correctly sized photo, and mail it to you with the required certification (if applicable). However, ensure their certification process meets IRCC standards before relying on them.

Summary of Canada Permanent Resident Card Photo Requirements

For applications related to the Canada permanent resident card photo requirements, remember these key takeaways:

1. Size is Everything: 50 mm x 70 mm (2” x 2 ¾”).
2. Face Size is Exact: Head must measure 31 mm to 36 mm.
3. Neutral Look: White/off-white background, no smile, closed mouth.
4. Certification Required: The name, address, and date must be on the back of one photo, provided by a professional.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if my photo is slightly the wrong size?

If the permanent resident photo requirements for size and head height are not met exactly, your application will likely be returned or rejected. It is better to reprint the photos than to risk application delays.

Can I take my Canada permanent resident photo at home?

While you can technically take the picture at home to get the right pose, you must have it professionally printed and certified by a recognized photolab to meet the official photo specifications canada immigration permanent resident standards.

How old can the permanent resident photo be?

The photo must have been taken within the last six (6) months of the date you submit your application. Using an older photo can lead to rejection, even if your appearance hasn’t changed.

I am applying online. Do I still need physical photos?

For initial PR applications (e.g., Confirmation of Permanent Residence, or CoPR), you must usually provide two physical photos. However, some newer online PR Card renewal processes may allow for a digital upload that strictly meets the canada permanent resident digital photo requirements. Always follow the specific checklist provided for your application type.

Can babies’ photos be different?

Photos for infants and children must still meet the size, quality, and background rules. However, a neutral expression is not strictly required for newborns, and their head measurement rules are slightly more lenient (as long as the photo accurately reflects their current appearance). No other person’s hands or toys can be visible in the image.