When you submit a Canadian citizenship application, you will need to include two passport-sized photos of you with your application. These photos will need to meet certain requirements to be acceptable.
The photographs must:
- Show you with a neutral expression. Your mouth must be closed and you must not be smiling or frowning.
- Be two identical photos.
- Have the name of the photography studio or photographer on the back. The date the photos were taken and the address of the studio or photographer must also be legibly printed or stamped on the back. The information should not bleed through or otherwise mar the photos. The back of the photos must further have your name printed.
- Be printed on high-grade photographic paper. They cannot be printed with a home printer on regular paper.
- Be either black and white or color and be taken within the past six months.
- Be unaltered in any way.
- Be against a pale or plain white background.
- Be clear.
- Have a frame size of 70 mm by 50 mm.
- Be positioned so the distance between your crown and chin is no larger than 36 mm and no smaller than 31 mm.
- Be positioned so that the top of your shoulders and the full front of your head is clearly visible. Your face must be in the middle of the photo and be facing directly forward.
Other Considerations
If you usually wear glasses, you can wear them as long as they are not tinted and they do not hide or block your eyes in any way. You cannot wear sunglasses. If you usually wear a cosmetic accessory, such as a wig, you may wear it as long as it does not disguise how you look. Head coverings worn for religious reasons may be worn if they do not hide any facial features.
It’s important to follow all the most recent photo requirements when applying for citizenship. If your photos do not meet the requirements, your application may be delayed and you will need to submit new photos.
You can ensure you submit the right photos by going to a photographer who is experienced with offering services for citizenship applicants. Take along a print-out of current regulations. You can also check out the resources at Immigration Direct. Our free blog offers updates of requirements and we have a guide for citizenship applications which includes everything you need and walks you through the process of applying for citizenship.
Related Articles:
Canadian Citizenship Requirements
English Test Requirement for Canadian Citizenship
Updated on 22nd May 2018.
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