Canadian PR card photo (50×70 mm)

Understanding the Official Size and Measurements

For a paper application, the photo must be 50×70 mm^[1]. For an online application, follow the separate digital photo requirements^[2][1].

For a printed photo, your face must measure 31–36 mm from chin to crown^[1]. Your head must be centered and proportional to the photo^[1].

When you measure your printed photo, use a standard ruler. Measure straight from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head, ignoring your hair if it extends past the crown.

Background Requirements and Lighting Tips

Use a plain, untextured white background^[1].

Lighting must be uniform, with no shadows, glare, or flash reflections^[2][1].

Stand a little bit away from the background wall to avoid casting a shadow behind you. Turn off any colored lights in the room and use soft, even front lighting so your face is brightly lit without harsh spots.

Facial Expression, Mouth, and Eye Rules

Use a neutral expression with your mouth closed, eyes open, and gaze directed at the camera^[2][1].

Glasses are allowed if your eyes are clearly visible and there is no glare on the lenses^[2].

Relax your face completely before the snapshot is taken. Keep your lips together without smiling or frowning. If you wear spectacles every day, check for light reflections on the glass before you save the picture.

Head Coverings and Religious or Medical Exceptions

Head coverings worn daily for religious or medical reasons are allowed if your full face is visible and the covering does not cast shadows^[2].

The edges of your face must be visible^[2].

Make sure the fabric of your head covering rests far enough back on your forehead so your eyebrows and the full oval of your face remain completely open to the camera lens.

Special Rules for Children and Newborns

Child photos must show only the child’s head and shoulders, with no hands or hair accessories^[2][1].

Newborns may have a range of facial expressions. A newborn may sit in a car seat if a white blanket is placed behind the head and there are no shadows^[2][1].

If you take a picture of a baby, lay a plain white sheet flat on the floor and place the infant on it, or use the car seat method with a clean white blanket. Keep your hands completely out of the frame.

Digital and Printed Submission Guidelines

For online applications, submit one digital photo no larger than 4 MB, with dimensions between 715×1000 and 2000×2800 pixels^[2][1].

For paper applications, submit two photos that meet the printed-photo requirements^[1]. Follow the paper application instructions for the information required on the back of the photos^[1].

Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Your Photo

Have your photo taken by a commercial photographer or studio^[2][1].

Use a plain, untextured white background, with a neutral expression and mouth closed^[2][1].

Taking the Photo at Home

Checking Your Photo

Check that your photo meets the applicable printed or digital photo requirements, including the required background and lighting^[2][1].

Verify that your chin and the top of your head fit inside the correct measurement limits. If anything looks blurry or dark, take another shot.