Canada PR Card Digital Photo Guide (2025 IRCC Requirements)

IRCC Digital Photo Specifications

Technical Requirements

• File format: JPEG (.jpg) only
• Minimum resolution: 420×540 pixels (width × height)
• File size: Maximum 240KB
• Color depth: 24-bit color (millions of colors)
• Compression: High quality, minimal compression
• Color profile: sRGB color space

Physical Dimensions Equivalent

• Print size equivalent: 50×70 mm (approximately 2×2.75 inches)
• Head height: 31-36 mm from chin to crown of head
• Eye level: Eyes should be 28-35 mm from bottom of photo
• Face width: 16-23 mm from ear to ear

IRCC Photo Standards

Subject Requirements

• Recent photo: Taken within 6 months of application
• Current appearance: Must accurately represent your current look
• One person only: Only the applicant visible in photo
• Head position: Looking directly at camera, head straight
• Natural expression: Neutral expression, mouth closed
• Eyes open: Both eyes clearly visible and open

Background and Lighting

• Background color: Plain white or light neutral color
• No shadows: Even lighting with no shadows on face or background
• No patterns: Background must be completely plain
• Proper exposure: Well-lit but not overexposed
• Color accuracy: Natural skin tones and colors

Digital Submission Process

Online Portal Requirements

Quality Assurance Steps

• Preview before upload: Review photo in full size
• Test upload: Verify file uploads successfully
• Backup copies: Keep multiple copies in different formats
• Print test: Print to verify quality translates to paper

Differences from Passport Photos

Size Comparison

Unique PR Card Requirements

• Rectangular format: Taller than wide (unlike square US photos)
• Head positioning: Different proportions than square formats
• Background preference: IRCC prefers pure white over off-white
• Digital-first: Designed primarily for digital submission

Common Technical Issues

File Size Problems

• File too large: Compress image or reduce resolution
• Quality loss from compression: Start with higher resolution source
• Batch processing errors: Process photos individually
• Format conversion issues: Use professional image editing software

Resolution and Quality Issues

• Insufficient resolution: Must meet 420×540 pixel minimum
• Pixelation: Use higher quality source image
• Blurry photos: Ensure sharp focus before resizing
• Color distortion: Maintain proper color profile

Photography Setup for PR Cards

Camera Equipment

• Digital camera or smartphone: Minimum 8MP recommended
• Tripod or stable surface: Prevent camera shake
• Remote trigger: Self-timer or bluetooth remote
• Light meter app: Ensure consistent lighting

Lighting Setup

• Natural light preferred: Large window with indirect sunlight
• Even illumination: Avoid harsh directional lighting
• No flash: Can cause red-eye and harsh shadows
• Color temperature: Daylight balanced (5500-6500K)

Digital Processing Workflow

Step-by-Step Processing

Software Recommendations

• Professional: Adobe Photoshop, GIMP (free)
• Online tools: Canva, Photopea (free browser-based)
• Mobile apps: Passport Photo Maker, ID Photo Application
• Specialized software: Passport Photo Workshop

Compliance Verification

Self-Check Checklist

Professional vs DIY Options

Professional Photography Services

• Guaranteed compliance: Experienced with IRCC requirements
• Digital delivery: Receive files in correct format
• Retake policy: Free retakes if rejected by IRCC
• Multiple formats: Receive both digital and print versions
• Cost: $15-30 for professional service

DIY Advantages

• Cost savings: Free if you have equipment
• Convenience: Take photos at home
• Multiple attempts: Take as many photos as needed
• Learning experience: Useful skill for future applications
• Quality control: Full control over final result

IRCC Processing and Review

Automated Verification

• Technical validation: File format and size checked automatically
• Basic compliance: System checks resolution and dimensions
• Upload confirmation: Immediate feedback on technical issues
• Processing queue: Photos reviewed by IRCC staff

Human Review Process

• Biometric compliance: Staff verify photo meets biometric standards
• Identity verification: Photo compared to other documents
• Quality assessment: Overall photo quality evaluated
• Rejection notifications: Specific reasons provided if rejected

Troubleshooting Common Rejections

Technical Rejections

• "File size too large": Compress image maintaining quality
• "Incorrect format": Ensure saving as .jpg (not .jpeg or .JPG)
• "Resolution too low": Increase to minimum 420×540 pixels
• "Upload failed": Check internet connection and try again

Quality Rejections

• "Poor image quality": Retake with better lighting/focus
• "Inappropriate background": Use plain white background only
• "Face not clearly visible": Improve lighting and positioning
• "Expression not neutral": Retake with serious expression

Special Circumstances

Religious or Medical Accommodations

• Head coverings: Religious head coverings may be permitted
• Medical devices: Contact IRCC for guidance on necessary equipment
• Documentation: May need supporting documents for accommodations
• Professional consultation: Consider IRCC-approved photographers

Children's Photos

• Same requirements: Technical specs identical to adults
• Practical challenges: May require multiple attempts
• Professional recommended: Higher success rate with experienced photographers
• Parental assistance: Parents may help but must not be visible

Timeline and Processing

Application Processing Times

• Standard processing: 45-77 business days from IRCC receipt
• Photo rejection delays: Additional 2-4 weeks for resubmission
• Peak season impacts: Longer delays during summer months
• Expedited options: Limited urgent processing available

Status Tracking

• Online account: Check application status through IRCC portal
• Email notifications: Automated updates on application progress
• Phone inquiries: Call centre available for status questions
• Processing updates: Regular updates on IRCC website