Canada Visa Photo Requirements: Guidelines and Price

If you’re applying for a visa to Canada, it’s crucial to fulfil all the requirements. One of these requirements is a photograph of the applicant.

In this article, we’ll guide Nigerian applicants through the Canada visa photo requirements, providing essential guidelines and information on where to take the photos. Additionally, we’ll discuss the costs associated with obtaining these photos.

What is a Canada Visa Photograph?

A Canada visa photograph refers to a small photo or set of photos of the applicant attached to the visa application. These photos are vital in identifying the applicant and aiding the Embassy or Consulate in processing the visa application.

Why do I Need to Submit a Canada Visa Photo?

Complying with all requirements is crucial to a successful visa application. Failing to attach the required visa photos will result in your application being rejected. Therefore, submitting a visa photo is essential in obtaining a Canadian visa.

Where Can You Take a Canada Visa Photo in Nigeria?

There are numerous photo studios in Nigeria that provide visa photo services. It’s important to choose a reputable studio familiar with the specific requirements for Canadian visa photos. Ensure that the chosen studio is willing to certify the applicant’s identity in writing and with signatures, as the Canadian Embassy requires verified photos.

Canada Visa Photo Requirements for Temporary Residents

For Canadian visa applications falling under the Temporary Resident category, including visitor visas, the following photo requirements must be met:

Two identical photos must be provided.
The photos should be printed on quality photographic paper.
They must have been taken within the last 6 months.
Photos can be in colour or black and white.
The background should be plain white or light-coloured, without any designs.
The photos must not be digitally altered.
The face should be centred in the camera frame, with the top of the shoulders visible.
A neutral facial expression is required, with the mouth closed (no smiling or frowning).
If the applicant wears eyeglasses, they must not be tinted, and the frames must not hide the eyes.
Sunglasses are not allowed.
Hairpieces or cosmetic accessories that significantly alter the applicant’s appearance should be avoided.
A headscarf must not cover any facial features if worn for religious purposes.
The photo size should have a frame of at least 35 mm (millimetres) by 45 mm.
The size of the applicant’s head in the photo should be between 31 mm and 36 mm from the top of the head to the chin.
The back of the photos should include the applicant’s name, the name and address of the photo studio, and a certification statement by the photographer.

Canada Visa Photo Requirements for Permanent Residents and Citizenship Applications

For applicants seeking Canadian permanent residency or citizenship, similar requirements apply to the visa photos, with a few differences:

Two identical photos must be submitted for Permanent Visa or Citizenship applications.
One photo is required for Renunciation applications.
The photo size should have a frame of at least 55 mm by 70 mm.
The size of the applicant’s head in the photo should be between 31 mm and 36 mm from the top of the head to the chin.
The back of the photo should include the applicant’s name and the name and address of the photo studio, along with a certification statement by the photographer.

Canada Visa Photo Requirements for Babies and Children

When applying with an infant or child, separate visa photos must be submitted for each child. While the requirements are similar to those for adult applicants, Canadian Embassies are generally more lenient when capturing photos of babies and children. However, it’s still important to try to comply with the guidelines. Here are a few tips:

Lay the baby down or place them in a car seat.
Use a clear or white background, such as a white sheet under the baby or over the car seat.
If holding the baby, ensure your hands are not visible in the photo.
Aim for the baby’s face to be centred, with the mouth closed.

Cost of Canada Visa Photos in Nigeria

The cost of Canada visa photos may vary depending on the photo studio you choose. On average, expect to pay between ₦3,000 and ₦5,000 per photo at commercial photographers. Some studios offer bundles of photos for a similar price, providing a more affordable option. If applying with dependents, such as a spouse and children, the total cost of photos will likely be around ₦25,000. While it may seem expensive, investing in quality photos ensures you won’t have to resubmit or pay twice.

Conclusion

Meeting the Canada visa photo requirements is essential for a successful visa application. As a Nigerian applicant, it’s important to understand the guidelines and where to obtain the necessary photos. Investing in proper visa photos is a worthwhile step toward fulfilling your dream of visiting Canada.