Two photos are required. They must be identical and taken from the same electronic file or the same film. The photos must be 2 3/4 inches in length and 2 inches wide. They can be in color or in black and white. The face must be square to the camera, take up at least 25 percent of the photo and be between 1 1/4 and 1 7/16 inches long. For children, only their head and shoulders can be visible. If the parent's hands are showing the photo will be rejected.
A notary seal must be stamped on the photos, and one of the photos must be signed by a guarantor to confirm your likeness. Your guarantor must be in possession of a valid Canadian passport, have known you for at least two years and provide contact information to Passport Canada. Your photos must have the name of the photographer or studio, including address and date, stamped or written on the back of a photo. Only a commercial photographer can take valid passport photos. Your photos must be printed on high quality, photogenic paper only.
Photos with uniform lighting, no contrast, or shadows will be rejected. Photos must be taken against a white or near-white background so the facial features are clear. Remove anything that might obstruct your face, like scarves and hats. Head coverings worn for medical or religious reasons are exempt, as long as both edges of the face are visible. Photos must be original, not copies, and be in clear focus.
Facial expressions must be neutral so that they are clearly identifiable by Passport Canada's equipment. The applicant must be looking directly at the camera. The eyes must be open and the mouth must be closed. If you usually wear glasses leave them on, but ensure that there is no reflection or glare on the photo as a result. Photos with red-eye are not acceptable.
