Maple News reports that one of the most common reasons Canadian proof of citizenship (PoC) applications are returned is simple: the photo does not meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) specifications. Ala Bujac, a Canadian immigration lawyer with Cohen Immigration Law, notes that photos failing to meet these standards are among the top causes of rejection.
IRCC has signalled closer scrutiny of PoC filings in recent weeks and has updated its requirements for supporting documentation. In this environment, submitting a photo that conforms to every specification is more important than ever.
Common photo mistakes include incorrect dimensions and outdated imagery. IRCC photos must be 50 mm wide by 70 mm high, with the face measuring between 31 mm and 36 mm from chin to crown. Photos that are too small or too large, or taken more than six months before submission, are likely to be rejected.
Back-of-photo details matter. The back must include the photographer or studio’s name and address, and the date the photo was taken. The applicant’s first and last name should also appear on the back of the photo.
Background and lighting play a role. A plain white or light-colored background is required, with no shadows around the ears, face, or shoulders. Coloured backgrounds, patterned backdrops, or visible shadows can trigger a rejection.
Glasses and head coverings are also governed by IRCC rules. Glasses are allowed if the eyes are clearly visible; tinted lenses or sunglasses are not permitted. Religious or medical head coverings can be worn if the face remains clearly visible and there is no shadow on the face. Head coverings worn daily are preferred, but those not worn regularly should not appear in the photo.
Specific guidance for infants. Photos of babies should show only the head and shoulders; no hands visible. Newborns can be photographed in a car seat with a white blanket behind the head, and IRCC allows some flexibility in infants’ facial expressions.
What not to submit. Selfies are almost always rejected; photos cropped from larger pictures or altered images—whether through changes to color, brightness, cropping, or background compositing—are not acceptable. AI-generated or AI-touched-up images are treated as altered and will be rejected.
Get it right with a professional photographer. IRCC requires a commercial photographer or studio for PoC photos. Bring the official IRCC photo specifications to the photographer and verify the final shots against those rules. If you’re filing on paper, IRCC currently requires two identical color prints.
With meticulous preparation, a strong photo is just one step in the process. For a complete checklist—from long-form birth certificates to documents issued by original authority—the Maple News team recommends consulting a licensed immigration lawyer for personalized guidance.
This article is provided for general information purposes and is not legal advice. For a full assessment of your situation, contact Maple News.’