Taken at the issuing office

🇨🇦Canada ID Card Photo

For this document the photo is taken in person when you apply, so you can't supply your own. Here's what the official camera checks and how to prepare so you're not turned away.

You don't bring your own photo.

The issuing office photographs you on site at your appointment. There's nothing to upload or buy here — use this page to get ready.

Example of a compliant Canada ID Card photo

What the office is looking for

What to expect at your appointment

Understanding the ID card photo standard and preparing before your photo is taken at the issuing office.

Read the official requirements

What their camera checks

The official photo standard you'll be measured against.

Photo size
2" × 2.8" (50 × 70 mm)
Background
White
Head height
31-36mm from chin to crown of head
Glasses
Not allowed
Recency
Taken within the last 6 months

How to prepare

Sort these before your appointment and the photo passes first time.

  • Wearing glasses — Glasses are not allowed in Canadian ID photos since November 2017
  • Wrong head size — Head must measure 31-36mm from chin to crown
  • Red-eye in photo — Photos with red-eye effect will be rejected
  • Shadows on face or background — Uniform lighting required with no shadows
  • Face not square to camera — Full face must be directly facing camera

Other Canada documents

Some of these you can prepare and print yourself.