Are you a Canadian traveler and are itching to get on your next flight? Do you need to have your passport photo to have your application approved?
A passport application can be an expensive process, but we are going to help you save money by finding out the easiest and most affordable way of having a passport photo taken!
In this article, we will be providing you with the ultimate guide to take a passport photo in Canada. So, keep reading, and learn all these helpful and exciting tips!
Where can I get my Canadian passport photo taken?
A Canadian passport photo can be taken through a photo center at several supermarket chains, a local photo studio, and a photographer, or the Smartphone iD app.
You can use your mobile device and google to search stores in the area that offer passport photo services.
Canadian Passport Photo Specifications ( for adults & babies)
Here are some tips you should follow, it will help you to get a proper Canadian passport photo:
For Adults:
- Neutral facial expression
- Darker clothing
- Minimal to no makeup
For Babies:
- Greater range of facial expressions (mouth slightly is allowed to be slightly open)
- Your hand cannot be in the photo if you are holding the baby up.
Check the requirements below to get a full idea about the Canadian passport photo specification
Canadian Passport Photo: General Requirements checklist
A Canadian passport photo must meet a selection of requirements before it can be sent to the passport office for verification. Here are a few of those requirements:
- You must submit 2 identical and unaltered passport photos
- The photo must be 50 mm in width and 70 mm high
- Photos may be in black and white or in color
- The photo must be clear and in focus
- No shadows can be in the finished photo
- A neutral facial expression
- The photo must have been taken less than 6 months before submitting
What is the size of a Canadian passport photo?(cm,inches, pixels)
The right size the Canadian passport photo must be:
- 5 cm width x 7 cm high
- 2 inches width x 2 ¾ inches high
- 1680 x 1200 pixels
How much does a passport photo cost in Canada?
A Canadian passport photo costs anywhere between $10 to $25 CAD. The overall cost will greatly depend on the service you decide to use. For example, getting your passport photo at Staples will cost significantly more than using Smartphone iD.
Where to print your Canadian passport photo?
You can have your Canadian passport printed at any Costco store for only $0.17. However, you will need to have a Costco membership to take advantage of this offer. The other option is to have your photo printed by the Smartphone iD app and posted to your home address.
5 cheap ways to have your passport photo taken
Everyone wants to save money! Therefore, we have provided a list of the cheapest places to go for an excellent and high-quality passport photo.
- Walmart
Walmart is a large Canadian superstore with a photo centre in its physical locations. The photo centre will offer passport photography and you can have your photo taken there. It will cost roughly $13 CAD and take approximately 10 to 15 minutes for the photo to be taken.
- Shoppers Drug Mart
Shoppers Drug Mart is another popular pharmacy that offers passport photography at participating services. It is not the same size as a Walmart, and you will need to verify that they offer the service before going in for an appointment. Shoppers charge roughly $20 CAD for a passport photo.
- Staples
Staples is a large office supply store chain, but they also provide passport photo services at their physical locations. They do not require an appointment to have your photo and boast small wait times for the photo to be completed. The cost is approximately $21.99 for 2 photos.
- Local Photo Studios
Most Canadian cities will have small photography studios or local photographers that offer passport photos. You can’t put an exact price on this service, but they can likely be found through Google to book an appointment.
- Smartphone iD App (Online Option)
Smartphone iD is an easy-to-use app that lets its users take their passports, driver’s licenses, or visa photos using a mobile device. The app is compatible with both Android and IOS smartphones. It is cheap and easy-to-use with experts examining every photo taken.
How to find a Canadian passport service near me?
The easiest way to find a passport service near you is by searching on Google. Then, you will be provided with a list of stores that offer the service in your area. However, if you want to take a photo from the comfort of your home, then use the Smartphone iD app.
What is the easiest method for taking your Canadian passport photo? ( from home using your phone)
The easiest way to have your passport taken is by using the Smartphone iD app. The app can be downloaded from the Apple or Google Play store and then used from the comfort of your home.
In addition, the app provides an easy-to-follow guide that will walk you through how to take a passport photo at home. Here is how to get started:
#1: Go to the Apple or Google Play store and download the app Smartphone iD
#2: Open the app on your mobile device and follow the in-app instructions
#3: Select “Canada” as the desired country for the passport photo
#4: Choose “Passport” as the document you are taking the photo for.
#5: Choose to have the photos either sent immediately to your email address or have them professionally printed and posted to your home address.
The smartphone iD app is highly advanced and takes every precaution to make sure that the photos taken will meet the requirements of the passport office. This includes:
- Having the photo examined and verified by the Civil Aviation Organization, which is responsible for verifying all biometric photos.
- Editing and resizing the photos to meet Canadian passport requirements
- Cheap and affordable! The Smartphone iD is the most affordable way to take your passport photo.
In summary
Canada and all countries make it necessary to have your passport photo taken before being able to visit and enter other countries. This ensures that the person using the passport is exactly who they claim to be.
There are many places you can go to have your passport photo taken, like Walmart, Shopper’s Drug Mart, or a local photography studio. However, the fastest and cheapest option is to use the Smartphone iD app. The app will have your photo double check by an AI system and then an expert to guarantee it meets Canadian passport guidelines.
FAQs
Do babies need passport photos in Canada?
Yes, the passport requirements do not change for an infant, baby, or child. They will need to have their passport photo taken.
How strict are Canadian passport photos?
The Canadian passport office in strict in its requirements for a verified passport photo. You will need to follow the criteria outlined in this article or follow the in-app guide when using Smartphone iD.
What happens if my passport photo is rejected?
If your passport photo is rejected, then you will need to take a new photo and resubmit the application to their office. We recommend using the guide provided by Smartphone iD to make sure the photo isn’t rejected.
Do I need a new photo to renew my Canadian passport?
Yes, once you’ve decided to renew your passport, then you will need to follow the requirements to get the document. This includes taking a new passport photo that reflects your current appearance.
Can I take my own passport photo?
Yes, you can take your own passport photo at home by using the Smartphone iD app. They will provide you with an easy-to-follow guide for taking the photo and then verifying it through the Civil Aviation Organization.
