Wrong photo specifications are a top reason proof of citizenship applications are returned. Here’s how to get them right

Preparing to submit an application for a Canadian citizenship certificate? Steer clear of one common mistake that sends applications back.

According to Ala Bujac, a Canadian immigration lawyer at Cohen Immigration Law, submitting photos that don't meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's (IRCC) specifications is one of the most common reasons proof of citizenship (PoC) applications get returned.

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Over the last month, IRCC has also signalled that it's reviewing proof of citizenship applications more closely, and has updated its requirement for supporting documentation.

In light of this, submitting a photo that meets all the specifications is all the more important.

Note: As of time of writing, more proof of citizenship applications are done through paper applications which requires two identical colour printed photos.

Common photograph mistakes for proof of citizenship applications

Photos that are the wrong dimensions

IRCC photos must measure 50 mm wide by 70 mm high, with the face measuring between 31 mm and 36 mm from chin to the crown of the head. A photo that's slightly off in size, or where the face is too small or too large in frame, can get an application returned.

Photos that are too old

IRCC's official photo specifications page states photos must reflect the applicant's current appearance and be taken no more than six months before submission. If a photo doesn't meet this specification, you must have a new photograph taken.

Missing the photographer's information and date on the back

IRCC requires the photographer or studio's name and address, and the date the photo was taken, to appear on the back of each print.

Missing the name of the person in the photo on the back

Proof of citizenship applications also need the first and last name of the person in the photo on the back, alongside the photographer's information.

A background that isn't plain white or light

IRCC wants a plain white or light-coloured background with no shadows around the ears or across the face and shoulders. Coloured backgrounds, patterned backdrops, or shadows falling across the wall behind the applicant are all common reasons for rejection.

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Not knowing IRCC's guidance on glasses or head covering 

IRCC accepts photos with glasses if your eyes are clearly visible. Tinted eye glasses or sunglasses are not allowed (even if they are prescription lenses).

Similarly, head coverings worn daily for religious or medical reasons are also accepted, as long as the face is clearly visible, and the head covering does not cast a shadow on the face.

Head coverings that are not worn daily are not accepted in the photograph

Incorrect baby or infant photos

IRCC also shares exact specifications for children and infant photos.

Pictures should show only the head and shoulders, with no parent's or child's hands visible. Newborns can be photographed in a car seat with a white blanket behind their head. IRCC allows some flexibility in facial expression for infants.

What not to submit with Canadian citizenship certificate applications

Selfies
Self-taken photos do not fall under the specifications and are routinely rejected.

Photos cropped from larger images
A photo cropped out of a vacation picture or family portrait won't meet IRCC's specifications either and will likely be rejected.

Altered photos
IRCC also prohibits any altered photo, which it defines as those with colour, brightness, or sharpness adjustments; cropping and pasting a subject onto a new background; smoothing wrinkles or blemishes; changing hair colour; or removing glare and red-eye. Even small, well-meaning edits count as alterations.

AI-generated or AI-touched-up images
IRCC treats these as altered images. AI enhancement, background generation, or touch-ups will lead to rejection.

The solution: find a professional photographer, and share official specifications

The good news is that this is one of the easiest problems to avoid entirely.

IRCC requires a commercial photographer or studio to have your photo taken for proof of citizenship applications. Professional studios may already be familiar with the specifications. That said, to be safe, you can print out IRCC's citizenship photo specifications page and hand it to the photographer.

The page covers details on accepted and rejected photos, including lighting, head coverings, and guidelines on child and infant photos.

Once the photos are ready, check them against the specifications one more time before submission. A few extra minutes at this stage can save weeks or even months of delay.

Getting the photo right is just one part of the equation.

For the full set of requirements, from long-form certificates to documents from an original source authority, a licensed immigration lawyer can give personalized guidance.

This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Cohen Immigration Law for a full assessment of your situation.

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