Canada Visitor Visa (TRV) Photo Requirements

What the TRV page asks for

IRCC’s Temporary Resident Visa application photograph specifications page asks for two photographs printed on quality photographic paper [1]. The photographs must be identical and taken within the last six months, and may be either black and white or colour [1]. They must be clear, well defined and taken against a plain white or light-coloured background [1]. If the photographs are digital, they must not be altered in any way [1].

The frame size must be at least 35 mm x 45 mm (1 3/8′′ x 1 3/4′′) [1]. The size of the head, from chin to crown, must be between 31 mm (1 1/4′′) and 36 mm (1 7/16′′) [1]. Crown means the top of the head or (if obscured by hair or a head covering) where the top of the head or skull would be if it could be seen [1]. The photograph must show a full front view of the head, with the face in the middle of the photograph, and include the top of the shoulders [1].

Pose and expression

Your face must be square to the camera with a neutral expression, neither frowning nor smiling, and with your mouth closed [1]. You may wear non-tinted prescription glasses as long as your eyes are clearly visible, and the frame must not cover any part of your eyes; sunglasses are not acceptable [1]. A head covering worn for religious reasons is allowed if your full facial features are not obscured [1], and a hairpiece or other cosmetic accessory is acceptable if it does not disguise your normal appearance [1].

How the passport photo standard differs

The Canadian passport photo page sets a frame of 50 mm wide by 70 mm high [2], where the TRV page sets a minimum of 35 mm x 45 mm [1]. The passport page also sets digital photo requirements — at least 1,800 pixels high by 1,200 pixels wide, no larger than 4,500 pixels high by 3,000 pixels wide, .jpeg or .jpg format, and between 200 KB and 5 MB [2].