Canada permanent resident card photo: size and rules
The printed Canada permanent resident card photo is 50 × 70 mm (1.97 × 2.76 in). For the online upload, keep the original, unedited camera file (up to 4,000 KB) as JPEG.
- Head 31 to 36 mm
Photo specification
| Photo size | 50 × 70 mm (1.97 × 2.76 in) |
|---|---|
| Head, crown to chin | 31 to 36 mm (1.22 to 1.42 in) |
| Photos required | 2 |
| Paper | professionally printed on plain, high-quality photo paper |
| Upload | The original camera file, unedited and uncropped |
|---|---|
| Minimum size | at least 715 × 1000 px |
| File size | up to 4,000 KB. The source counts 1 KB as 1,000 bytes. |
| Formats | JPEG |
Figures from the source. Last checked 28 Sep 2026. Rules change. Check the issuing authority’s current instructions before you apply.
Background and editing
The source asks for a plain white background. The rules do not allow digital changes to the photo, so the background is the photographer’s or booth’s job to get right.
Rules from the source
- Online applications take one digital photo; paper applications take two identical photos.
- Photo taken no more than 12 months before you apply.
- Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open, looking at the camera.
- Photo must not be copied from another photo or altered in any way.
Can you make it at home?
No. IRCC says to go to a commercial photographer or studio, even for the digital copy. Paper photos need the studio's name, address and date on the back.
Where to go instead
Ask the issuing office which photographers or booths it takes. PortraitPass does not make this photo, because a print or file made at home would be turned away. Take the numbers above with you, and check the photo you get back against them.
Documents from Canada you can prepare yourself
- Canada visitor visa (TRV)35 × 45 mm
Sources
- Permanent resident photos - Canada.caIssuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
Found a wrong or outdated number? Open an issue with the source link.
Common questions
What size is a Canada permanent resident card photo?
The printed photo is 50 × 70 mm (1.97 × 2.76 in). The digital upload is the original file, as JPEG.
Can I take a Canada permanent resident card photo at home?
No. The photo has to be made by the issuing authority or a provider it names.
What background does a Canada permanent resident card photo need?
The source asks for a plain white background.
How many KB can a Canada permanent resident card photo be?
The file size limit is up to 4,000 KB. The source counts 1 KB as 1,000 bytes.
Where do the Canada permanent resident card numbers come from?
From the issuing authority’s own pages: Permanent resident photos - Canada.ca. Last checked 28 Sep 2026.
Guides for this photo
Related documents
More from Canada
- Canada passport50 × 70 mmNot at home
- Canada visitor visa (TRV)35 × 45 mm