Canada visa photo guides
Study Permit and Work Permit photo guide
Study Permit and Work Permit photo preparation usually follows the same visa-style 35 x 45 mm specification, but the actual IRCC checklist still matters.
Checked: 2026-06-30
Requirement snapshot
- Visitor visa / TRV / permit-style photo
- 35 x 45 mm with face height 31-36 mm
- Plain light background, neutral expression
- Confirm the IRCC checklist and upload screen
Study Permit and Work Permit photo guidance
Study Permit, Work Permit, and visitor visa photo preparation usually follows the same visa-style 35 x 45 mm specification: at least 35 x 45 mm, face height 31 to 36 mm, plain light background, neutral expression, and taken within the last 6 months.
The photo is one part of a larger application, so prepare it carefully but do not treat it as a substitute for the actual IRCC checklist for your permit type.
- Use the visa-style 35 x 45 mm format unless your route says otherwise.
- Face height 31 to 36 mm, plain light background, neutral expression.
- Confirm the checklist and upload screen for your specific permit.
Confirm the actual IRCC route before uploading
Application routes can differ in whether they want a digital upload file, printed photos, or a specific number of copies. Before you finalise the photo, open your IRCC application page and confirm the exact deliverable it asks for.
This app prepares photo files based on publicly available requirements. It does not submit permit applications and is not an official IRCC, embassy, or application-centre service.
Official sources
This guide summarizes the IRCC visa application photograph specification and uses the PR card and passport pages only to show where the 50 x 70 mm rules differ.
This website and app are independent tools and are not affiliated with the Government of Canada, IRCC, an embassy, a visa office, or any application centre. Photo preparation does not guarantee acceptance, approval, or visa issuance.
Common Canada Photo Rejection Reasons
Even minor deviations can cause IRCC to reject your photo, delaying your application. Avoid these frequent errors:
Sunglasses and tinted glasses are strictly prohibited. Non-tinted prescription glasses may be acceptable if eyes are clearly visible with no glare and the frame does not cover the eyes. If in doubt, remove glasses.
The face height must be between 31mm and 36mm. If you crop the photo too close or zoom out too far, the photo will be rejected.
Ensure lighting is front-facing and even. Shadows on the background wall or on the side of the face are a common cause of rejection.
IRCC requires a strict neutral expression. Smiling, raising eyebrows, or showing teeth will result in photo rejection.
Why Use the Canada Visa Photo App?
The on-screen overlay helps you match the 35×45mm proportions, assisting in verifying the required 31–36mm face height.
Directly output the required dimensions for Canada visitor visas, Study Permits, and Work Permits.
All image processing occurs locally on your iPhone. Your personal photos are never uploaded to a remote server.
Review face position, margins, and background before paying, so you can verify compliance with specifications in advance.
Please note: This app helps prepare photo files for online upload. It is not affiliated with IRCC, and it does not submit applications. For paper-based applications like PR cards, an official photographer's stamp on the back is mandatory. The app's outputs do not replace this requirement. Check the latest rules at Canada.ca.
Related guides
FAQ
Do Study Permit and Work Permit photos use the same size as a visitor visa?
Usually yes. They generally follow the visa-style 35 x 45 mm specification with a face height of 31 to 36 mm, but always confirm your specific IRCC checklist.
Should I upload a digital file or bring printed photos?
It depends on your application route. Check your IRCC application page to see whether it asks for a digital upload, printed photos, or both.
Does the app submit my permit application for me?
No. The app helps prepare photo files based on publicly available requirements; it does not submit applications and is not affiliated with IRCC or any application centre.
Official sources
- IRCC - Visa application photograph specifications (PDF) Checked: 2026-06-30
This website and app are independent tools and are not affiliated with the Government of Canada, IRCC, an embassy, a visa office, or any application centre. Photo preparation does not guarantee acceptance, approval, or visa issuance.
All Canada visa photo guides
Prepare a permit photo without mixing routes
Use the app to prepare a visa-style photo, then confirm the latest official instructions for your actual application route.
Download on the App Store