Preparing a Canadian Baby Passport Photo
Get ready to take a passport photo for your baby by following official rules for size, lighting, and printing. You can use the tool above to help check your photo layout before you go.
Official Size and Head Measurements
Getting a passport for your infant requires strict attention to sizing. The official size for a Canadian baby passport photo is 50 by 70 millimeters, which is about 1.97 by 2.76 inches[1][2]. You must make sure the physical dimensions match these numbers exactly when the photo is printed.
Your child’s face must measure 31–36 mm from chin to crown[1][2].
Background and Lighting Rules
Use a plain white or light-coloured background with clear contrast between your child and the background[2].
Avoid shadows on the face, shoulders, around the ears, or in the background[1][2]. Natural light from a large window often works well if you avoid direct sunlight. If you use indoor lamps, position them to light the room evenly without creating harsh spots or dark areas near your baby.
Facial Expression and Child Rules
Newborns may have a range of facial expressions[1].
A newborn may sit in a car seat if a white blanket is placed over the seat behind the child’s head and there are no shadows[1][2].
Glasses, Hats, and Head Coverings
Head coverings worn daily for religious or medical reasons are allowed if the child’s full face is visible and the covering casts no shadows[1][2].
Prescription glasses may be worn if your child’s eyes are clearly visible and there is no glare on the lenses[1][2].
Submission Rules and Professional Print Requirement
Submit two identical and unaltered printed photos with the passport application[2].
A commercial photographer or studio must take the photo, which must be professionally printed and unaltered[2]. Home-printed photos and cropping around the head and shoulders are not accepted[2]. Keep in mind that the photo studio must provide prints that meet all physical dimensions without digital alterations made at home.
Step-by-Step Tips for Taking the Photo at Home
A newborn may sit in a car seat if a white blanket is placed behind the head and there are no shadows[1][2].
Follow the official photo requirements for your child[1][2].
Checking Your Photo
Before you get prints made, check your photo against the official rules. The face must measure between 31 mm and 36 mm from chin to crown[1][2].
Make sure the background is plain white or light-coloured with clear contrast[2]. Look closely at the ears, chin, and top of the head to verify that nothing is cut off and no shadows appear on the face or background[1][2].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The child’s face must measure 31–36 mm from chin to crown[1][2].
Photos must be professionally printed on quality photographic paper, and there must be no shadows on the face, shoulders, around the ears, or in the background[1][2]. Other frequent errors include using home printers, having poor contrast against the background, or submitting pictures where the baby's eyes are not clearly visible when wearing glasses[1][2].
Frequently asked questions
What is the required size for a Canadian baby passport photo?
Can I print the baby passport photo at home using my own printer?
Home printing is not accepted. Submit two identical, professionally printed photos taken by a commercial photographer or studio[2].
Does my baby need to keep a neutral expression?
Newborns may have a range of facial expressions[1].
Can my baby wear a hat in the passport photo?
Hats and head coverings are not allowed unless worn for specific religious beliefs or medical reasons, and the entire face must be completely visible[2].
Can my baby sit in a car seat for the picture?
Yes, a newborn may sit in a car seat with a white blanket placed behind the head, provided there are no shadows[2].