35×45mm Photo Requirements (Canada)

About 35×45mm Photos in Canada

The 35×45mm photo format is commonly used for various Canadian immigration and temporary resident applications. This passport-size format is the standard requirement for temporary resident visas, work permits, and many other IRCC applications.

What are they used for in Canada?

• Temporary Resident Visas (visitor visas)
• Work permit applications
• Study permit applications
• Temporary resident permit applications
• Some family class immigration applications
• Extension and renewal applications
• Restoration of status applications
• Various IRCC forms and applications

Common Applications in Canada

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):

• Temporary resident visa applications
• Work permit and study permit applications
• Visitor record applications
• Temporary resident permit applications

Provincial Nominee Programs:

• Some provincial applications
• Supporting documentation for nominations
• Provincial identity documents

Professional Licensing:

• Professional association applications
• Licensing board requirements
• Certification and registration documents

Educational Applications:

• International student applications
• Academic credential assessments
• Educational institution requirements

Photo Specifications

Key Requirements

• Size: 35 × 45 mm (passport size rectangle)
• Face Height: 31–36 mm (measured from chin to crown, excluding hair)
• Background: Plain white or light-colored, uniform
• Quality: High resolution (minimum 300 DPI), sharp focus, color only
• Recency: Taken within the last 6 months

Technical Specifications

• Head Position: Centered, facing directly forward
• Eye Level: Eyes positioned in upper half of photo
• Shoulders: Both shoulders visible and level
• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
• Lighting: Even lighting without shadows, glare, or red-eye

IRCC Standards

• Background: Must be plain white or light-colored
• Glasses: Prescription glasses allowed if no glare or reflections
• Contact Lenses: Colored contacts not permitted
• Headwear: Only for religious or medical reasons, face must be fully visible
• Expression: Neutral expression with mouth closed
• Eyes: Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
• Natural Appearance: No digital alterations or heavy makeup

Digital Photo Requirements

• File Format: JPEG preferred
• File Size: Maximum 4 MB per photo
• Resolution: Minimum 420×540 pixels
• Color: Full color only
• Quality: High resolution, no compression artifacts

Common Rejection Reasons

Photo Quality Issues

• Low resolution or pixelated images
• Blurry or out-of-focus photographs
• Over or under-exposed images
• Poor color reproduction or saturation
• Digital alterations or filters applied

Size and Dimension Problems

• Incorrect photo dimensions (not exactly 35×45mm)
• Face height outside 31-36mm range
• Improper aspect ratio or cropping
• Head too large or too small in frame
• Insufficient space around head

Background Issues

• Colored, patterned, or textured backgrounds
• Shadows or uneven lighting on background
• Objects, furniture, or people visible
• Non-uniform background color
• Busy or distracting backgrounds

Composition Errors

• Head tilted, turned, or not centered
• Eyes looking away from camera
• Mouth open or inappropriate expression
• Hair covering eyes, eyebrows, or face
• Uneven shoulders or poor posture

Technical Violations

• Photos older than 6 months
• Black and white or sepia-toned images
• Visible digital alterations or filters
• Wrong file format for digital applications
• File size too large for online submission

Tips for Perfect 35×45mm Photos

Professional Photography

• Use photographer experienced with IRCC requirements
• Ensure proper lighting setup and background
• Verify exact measurements before printing
• Take multiple shots for best selection

DIY Photography Setup

1. Background: Pure white wall or professional backdrop
2. Lighting: Natural daylight or professional studio lights
3. Camera: High-resolution camera at eye level
4. Distance: Maintain proper distance for correct face size
5. Position: Sit straight, shoulders level, look directly at camera

Measurement Guidelines

• Total photo: Exactly 35×45mm
• Face height: 31-36mm (chin to crown, excluding hair)
• Eye position: Upper half of photo
• Head width: Approximately 60-70% of photo width
• Margins: Equal space on left and right sides

Quality Control Checklist

• ✓ Exact 35×45mm dimensions
• ✓ Face height within 31-36mm range
• ✓ Pure white, uniform background
• ✓ Sharp focus throughout image
• ✓ Proper exposure and color balance
• ✓ Neutral expression, eyes open
• ✓ No shadows on face or background
• ✓ Recent photo (within 6 months)

Printing and Submission

Print Specifications

• High-quality photo paper (glossy or matte)
• Professional photo printing recommended
• Exact dimensions crucial for acceptance
• No borders, margins, or crop marks

Digital Submission Requirements

• JPEG format most commonly accepted
• Maximum file size 4 MB
• Minimum resolution 420×540 pixels
• Color profile: sRGB recommended
• No compression artifacts

Where to Print in Canada

• Professional photography studios
• Pharmacy photo services (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall)
• Canada Post photo services
• Costco Photo Center
• Walmart Photo Studio
• Online photo printing services with Canadian delivery

IRCC Application Tips

For Online Applications:

• Upload photos in correct file format
• Ensure file size is within limits
• Test upload before final submission
• Keep backup copies of photos

For Paper Applications:

• Print on high-quality photo paper
• Ensure exact 35×45mm dimensions
• Attach photos securely to application
• Don’t fold or damage photos

For Biometrics Appointments:

• Bring printed photos if required
• Photos may be taken at biometrics appointment
• Check specific requirements for your application

Special Considerations

For Family Applications:

• Each person needs separate photos
• Children’s photos have same requirements as adults
• Consider taking all photos at same session for consistency
• Ensure all photos are taken within same 6-month period

For Religious Headwear:

• Face must be fully visible from hairline to chin
• Ears should be visible unless covered for religious reasons
• No shadows cast on face by headwear
• May need to provide religious exemption letter

For People with Disabilities:

• Reasonable accommodations available for photo requirements
• Alternative formats may be accepted with medical documentation
• Contact IRCC for specific guidance on accommodations

For Urgent Applications:

• Professional photography recommended to avoid delays
• Ensure photos meet all requirements to prevent rejection
• Keep extra copies for potential resubmission

Cost Considerations in Canada

Professional Photography:

• Studio passport photos: $15-$30 CAD
• Chain store photo services: $10-$20 CAD
• Specialized immigration photo services: $20-$40 CAD

DIY and Printing Options:

• Pharmacy printing: $0.50-$2 CAD per print
• Costco photo services: $6.99 CAD for 2 photos
• Online printing services: $5-$15 CAD including shipping
• Home printing: Variable cost depending on equipment

Bulk Printing:

• Multiple copies often cheaper per unit
• Consider future applications when ordering
• Digital files allow reprinting as needed
• Some services offer package deals for families

Need perfect 35×45mm photos for your Canadian applications? Our AI-powered tool ensures your photos meet all official IRCC requirements, with convenient printing options across Canada.