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Citizenship applications use the same 50 mm by 70 mm format as the Canadian passport, with the face measuring 31 mm to 36 mm from chin to crown. Two identical photos are required, taken within the last 12 months.
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Photo format
Canada citizenship photo50 x 70 mmHead height 31-36 mm
Background: Plain white
Glasses: allowed if eyes are clear
Background
Compliance
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Read the full requirement checklistThe published rules for a 50 x 70 mm Canada citizenship photo.
The citizenship photo shares its dimensions and head-height window with the Canadian passport photo, so a single well-taken photo can serve both. What differs is the recency requirement. Citizenship accepts a photo up to 12 months old, while a permanent resident card application requires one taken within the last six months. If you are filing both, take a fresh photo and satisfy the stricter rule.
You submit two identical prints. Only one needs the studio or photographer name, full address and photo date written on the back, but there is no harm in annotating both. Use a pen that will not smudge and write lightly so you do not emboss the image on the front.
Home printing is acceptable as long as the physical size is exactly 50 mm by 70 mm and the paper is photo-quality matte or semi-matte rather than glossy or plain office paper. Download the print sheet option above to get several copies laid out with cut guides on a 4x6 inch or A4 sheet, then measure one with a ruler before you trim the rest.
Accepted vs refused
One compliant photo, five of the faults that cause most rejections.
Read the requirements guideCommon faults to watch for
Neutral expression, even lighting, plain background, head correctly sized and centred.
A side light or overhead lamp leaves one side of the face dark. Face a window instead.
A textured, coloured or shadowed wall. Turn on background replacement to fix this.
Reflections hide the eyes. Most countries want glasses removed entirely.
The head must be square to the camera. Use the straighten slider to correct small tilts.
The crown is cut off and the head exceeds the allowed millimetre range.
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