Getting your Canada visa approved is a process that has many criteria, but what we see is that the issue of the correct Canada visa photo is often overlooked. Even a small mistake in your photo may delay your application or cause it to be rejected.

Adding to this, Canada’s 2025–2027 immigration levels plan has brought in changes that affect tourist and business visa holders, although in a different way than permanent residents. There is a shift away from the issue of long-term, multiple-entry tourist visas (which to date had a validity of 10 years). Now, there is a case-by-case issue of tourist visas, which depend on the profile of the applicant and Canada’s changing immigration requirements at the time.

Many Indian travellers face the issue of using standard passport photos, which do not meet visa requirements. For Canada visa photos, they have different size requirements than is put forth in Indian passport issues, and they must be followed precisely.

This guide includes all the information you need on the Canada visa photo size, background colours, and technical details. For tourist, student, or work permit visas, the requirements are the same.

Official Canada Visa Photo Requirements

The Canada visa photo has specific measurements that you must follow:

Paper Photo Dimensions:

  • Canada visa photo size: 35mm x 45mm
  • This is smaller than Indian passport photos (51mm x 51mm)

Digital Photo Specifications:

  • Minimum resolution: 420 x 540 pixels
  • Head size: 31-36 mm from chin to crown of head
  • The photo must show your full front face, perfectly centred

Facial Requirements:

1. Do:

  • Neutral expression, mouth closed
  • Look straight at the camera
  • Keep face centred and visible

2. Don’t:

  • Smile or show teeth
  • Tilt your head
  • Use selfies or low-res images

Your face should occupy about 70-80% of the photo frame. The Canada visa photo size ensures your features are visible for identification purposes.

Background & Lighting Rules

The background and lighting are crucial for Canada visa photo compliance:

Background Requirements:

  • Plain white or very light-colored background only
  • No patterns, textures, or designs
  • No shadows are visible on the background

Lighting Standards:

  • Even lighting across your face and background
  • No harsh shadows on your face or neck
  • Avoid the red-eye effect from the camera flash
  • No glare or reflections on your skin

Professional photo studios understand these Canada visa photo requirements better than home setups. Poor lighting can make your photo unusable, even if the dimensions are correct.

Clothing, Appearance & Headgear Guidelines

What you wear in your Canada visa photo matters as much as the size.

Clothing Rules:

  • Avoid white or very light-colored clothing
  • No patterns, stripes, or busy designs
  • Dark colours work best against a light background
  • No uniforms or camouflage patterns

Headgear Policy:

  • Remove hats, caps, and headbands
  • Religious headwear is allowed, but your face must be completely visible
  • Hair should not cover your face or eyes

Eyewear Guidelines:

  • Remove glasses if possible
  • If you must wear glasses, ensure no glare or reflections
  • No tinted or dark lenses
  • Your eyes must be visible through the lenses

Technical Specifications (Digital & Print)

For online applications, your Canada visa photo size must meet these digital requirements:

Digital Photo Specs:

  • File format: JPEG or JPG only
  • Minimum resolution: 600 DPI
  • File size: Between 240 KB to 4 MB
  • Colour photo only (no black and white)

Print Photo Requirements:

  • High-quality photo paper (matte or glossy)
  • Professional printing recommended
  • No home printer photos
  • A recent photo taken within the last 6 months

The Canada visa photo specifications are strict because immigration officers use these photos for identification throughout your application process.

Need help with your Canada visa photo?

Our visa experts check if your photo meets the embassy's guidelines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applications get delayed due to these Canada visa photo errors:

Size and Format Mistakes:

  • Using the Indian passport photo size instead of the Canadian visa photo size
  • Submitting photos that are too small or too large
  • Wrong file format for digital submissions

Quality Issues:

  • Blurry or pixelated images
  • Photos taken with phone cameras without proper setup
  • Scanned copies of old passport photos
  • Selfies or informal photos

Appearance Errors:

  • Smiling or showing teeth
  • Eyes closed or looking away
  • Head tilted or turned
  • Wearing white clothes on a white background

Remember, the Canada visa photo size is just one requirement. All other specifications must also be perfect.

Canada Visa Types & Photo Rule Applicability

The same visa photo requirements apply to all visa categories.

  • Tourist Visa Applications
  • Student Visa Requirements
  • Work Permit Photos
  • Business Visa Standards
  • Permanent Residence (PR)

Whether for the online application via the IRCC website or for the in-person application at VFS Global, the Canada visa photo requirements are the same.

How Visa2Fly Can Help You Get It Right

Getting the perfect Canada visa photo can be challenging. Here's how Visa2Fly simplifies the process:

Verification Support:

  • Expert review of your photos before submission
  • Canada visa photo validation service
  • Immediate feedback on photo compliance

Complete Visa Services:

  • Document preparation and review
  • Application tracking and updates
  • Dedicated support throughout the process

With Visa2Fly, you don't have to worry about Canada visa photo mistakes causing delays or rejections.

FAQs:

Q1. Can I use my Indian passport-size photo for a Canada visa?

No. Indian passport photos are typically 51mm x 51mm, while the Canada visa photo size is 35mm x 45mm. You need visa-specific photos that meet exact requirements.

Q2. Do I need a physical photo even if I'm applying online?

For online applications, you only need digital photos. However, carry physical copies to biometrics appointments or interviews if requested.

Q3. Is it okay to wear glasses in the photo?

It's better to avoid glasses. If you must wear them, ensure no glare, reflections, or tinted lenses. Your eyes must be visible.

Q4. Can I take the photo at home with my phone?

While technically possible, meeting all Canada visa photo size and quality requirements at home is difficult. Professional photos are recommended to avoid rejection.

Q5. How do I know if my digital photo meets the requirements?

Use Visa2Fly's photo review service. Our experts verify your Canada visa photo size and all other specifications before submission.

Q6. How recent should my photo be?

Your photo must be taken within the last 6 months and reflect your current appearance accurately.

Q7. What happens if my visa photo is rejected?

You'll receive a request for new photos, which will delay your application. Getting the Canada visa photo size right the first time saves valuable processing time.

Conclusion

Following the correct Canada visa photo guidelines is essential for a smooth visa application process.

The 35mm x 45mm dimension, combined with proper background, lighting, and technical specifications, ensures your application meets Canadian immigration standards.

Don't let a simple photo mistake delay your Canada travel plans. Double-check all Canada visa photo requirements and consider professional assistance for the best results.

Visa2Fly makes getting the perfect Canada visa photo effortless. From photo guidelines to complete visa processing, we handle every detail so you can focus on planning your Canadian adventure.

Ready to apply for your Canada visa? Contact Visa2Fly today for expert guidance on Canada visa photo requirements and comprehensive visa services.