Getting the right photos for your citizenship application is crucial — wrong photos are the number one reason applications are returned. This guide covers every specification in detail. CitizenPass helps you prepare for every step — read on, then start practicing for free.
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Photo Specifications at a Glance
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 50mm x 70mm (2 inches x 2.75 inches) |
| Quantity | 2 identical photos |
| Background | Plain white or light-coloured |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Eyes | Open and clearly visible |
| Face | Full front view, centered |
| Head size | Between 31mm and 36mm from chin to crown |
| Glasses | Not permitted (medical exceptions) |
| Quality | Sharp focus, proper lighting, no shadows |
| Format | Printed on photo-quality paper |
Why Citizenship Photos Are Different
Many applicants confuse citizenship photos with passport photos. Here is the key difference:
| Feature | Citizenship Photo | Passport Photo |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 50mm | 50mm |
| Height | 70mm | 50mm |
| Head size | 31-36mm | 31-36mm |
The extra height on citizenship photos means more of your upper body is visible. Always specify "citizenship photos" to the photographer — not passport photos.
Detailed Requirements
Face and Expression
- Full front view of your face
- Neutral expression — no smiling, frowning, or raised eyebrows
- Mouth closed
- Both eyes open and clearly visible
- Looking directly at the camera
Head Position
- Face centered in the frame
- Head straight, not tilted or turned
- Both ears visible (if hair allows)
- Head size from chin to crown: 31mm to 36mm
Background
- Plain white or light-coloured background
- No patterns, textures, or other objects
- No shadows on the background or face
- Even lighting across the entire photo
Clothing
- Wear everyday clothing
- Avoid white or very light-coloured tops (they blend with the background)
- No uniforms (unless worn daily for religious reasons)
- Head coverings only for religious or medical reasons
Glasses
- Remove glasses for the photo
- Exception: medical necessity with a signed letter from your doctor
- If wearing glasses with medical exception: no tinted lenses, no glare, eyes clearly visible
Quality Standards
- Sharp focus — no blurriness
- Proper exposure — not too dark or too light
- No red-eye
- Printed on high-quality photo paper
- No digital alterations or filters
Where to Get Citizenship Photos
Professional Photo Studios
The most reliable option. Studios that specialize in immigration photos know the IRCC specifications. Cost: $15-25.
Pharmacies
Many pharmacies (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, London Drugs) offer photo services. Cost: $12-20. Tell them you need citizenship photos (50x70mm), not passport photos.
Membership Stores
Costco and Walmart photo centres can take citizenship photos. Cost: $8-15. Confirm they can do the 50x70mm size.
DIY at Home
If taking photos at home:
- Use a plain white wall as background
- Use natural light or a bright lamp (avoid flash shadows)
- Set camera at eye level
- Use a tripod for stability
- Print on photo-quality paper at exact 50x70mm size
- Verify measurements before submitting
CitizenPass Pro Tip: Always get at least 4 copies of your photos. You need 2 for the application, and extras are useful if any get damaged or if IRCC requests additional photos.
Common Photo Mistakes
- Wrong size — The most common error. Passport size (50x50mm) instead of citizenship size (50x70mm)
- Wearing glasses — Remove glasses unless medically required
- Shadows on face or background — Use even, front-facing lighting
- Smiling — Keep a neutral expression
- Photo too old — Must be taken within the last 6 months
- Low resolution — Printed on regular paper instead of photo paper
- Head too small or too large — Must be 31-36mm from chin to crown
- Background not white — Coloured or patterned backgrounds are rejected
How to Submit Photos Online
For online applications, you need to upload a digital version of your photo:
- Scan or photograph the printed photo
- File format: JPEG or PNG
- File size: under 4MB
- Resolution: at least 600 x 840 pixels (equivalent to 50x70mm at 300 DPI)
- Ensure the digital copy accurately represents the printed photo
What Happens If Your Photos Are Rejected
If IRCC rejects your photos:
- Your application will be returned or you will receive a request for new photos
- This adds 1-3 months to your processing time
- Take new photos that address the specific issue
- Resubmit through your IRCC account
Pass Your Citizenship Test — With CitizenPass
Once your photos are ready, focus on test preparation. Thousands of newcomers have used CitizenPass to pass on their first attempt — completely free to start:
- 600+ Practice Questions — Same format as the real IRCC test, with detailed explanations for every answer
- AI-Powered Coach — Identifies your weak areas and builds a personalized study plan just for you
- 80+ Bite-Sized Lessons — All 12 Discover Canada chapters, broken into 10-minute study sessions
- Real-Time Progress Tracking — See exactly when you are ready to pass
- Bilingual Support — Study in English or French, switch anytime
- Mobile + Desktop — Available on iOS, Android, and web — study anywhere
CitizenPass users score an average of 18/20 on their first attempt — well above the 15/20 passing score.
Your Canadian dream is one test away. Join thousands of successful new Canadians — start your free CitizenPass preparation today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1Are citizenship photos the same size as passport photos?
No. Canadian citizenship photos are 50mm x 70mm, while passport photos are 50mm x 50mm. This is the most common mistake. Tell the photographer you need citizenship photos specifically.
2Can I take my own citizenship photos at home?
Technically yes, but it is not recommended. The photos must meet strict IRCC specifications for size, lighting, background, and quality. Professional studios are more reliable and cost only $15-25.
3Can I wear a hijab or turban in my citizenship photo?
Yes. Religious head coverings are permitted in citizenship photos. Your full face must still be visible from chin to forehead, and both edges of your face must be clearly seen.
4What do I write on the back of the photo?
Write your full name and date of birth on the back of each photo. If using a professional studio, they may also stamp the photo with their studio information and the date taken.