Quick Answer
Each country has its own passport photo rules, and the differences matter more than you might think. Here’s what you need to know before you get your photos taken.
Why the rules differ
Passport photo requirements are set by each country’s issuing authority, so they are not standardized. Canada, the US, and the UK each have specific size, background, and composition rules. A photo that works for one country may be rejected for another, so always check the latest official guidance before your appointment.
Key differences at a glance
The most obvious difference is size: Canadian photos are 50mm x 70mm, US photos are 2x2 inches, and UK photos are 45mm x 35mm. Backgrounds also vary—Canada and the UK require plain white or light grey, while the US accepts white or off-white. Head size and positioning rules differ as well, which can cause surprises if you reuse a photo from another country.
Passport photo FAQ
What are the exact photo sizes?
Canada: 50mm x 70mm (2 x 2.75 inches). US: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51mm). UK: 45mm x 35mm (1.77 x 1.38 inches). Always confirm with the official government site before printing. Check the specific size for your destination country before your appointment.
What background color is required?
Canada: plain white or light grey. US: white or off-white, with no shadows. UK: plain light grey or cream. Avoid patterned or textured backgrounds. If you're getting photos for multiple countries, don't assume one background works for all—ask your photographer to adjust.
Can I smile in my passport photo?
Canada and the US: neutral expression, no smile. UK: neutral expression, mouth closed. A slight smile is not allowed in any of the three. Practice a neutral expression before your photo session to avoid retakes.
Do glasses need to be removed?
Canada: glasses must be removed. US: glasses are not allowed except for medical reasons (with a note). UK: glasses are generally not allowed unless worn for medical reasons. If you wear glasses, remove them for the photo unless you have a medical exemption.
How recent must the photo be?
Canada: taken within the last 6 months. US: taken within the last 6 months. UK: taken within the last 1 month. Plan your photo session close to your application date, especially for UK passports.
Can I use the same photo for multiple countries?
No. Because sizes, backgrounds, and expression rules differ, a photo that meets one country's requirements will likely fail another's. Get a separate photo for each passport application. Book separate sessions or request multiple prints with different specs if you need photos for more than one country.
PhotoLounge passport photo services
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Canadian Photo: PhotoLounge photographs passport and visa photos for all countries, with a dedicated page for Canadian requirements. If you need a Canadian passport photo, this service ensures your photo meets the specific Canadian size and composition rules.
Canadian Photo
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U.S. Photo: PhotoLounge offers US passport photos with a 30-minute turnaround and no appointment needed between 12pm-4pm. For a US passport, you can get a compliant photo quickly without planning ahead, which is ideal for last-minute applications.
U.S. Photo
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United Kingdom Photo: PhotoLounge provides UK passport photos and highlights UK-specific requirements on their page. UK passport photos have strict sizing rules, so using a service that knows those rules reduces the chance of rejection.
