Singapore passport holders do not need a visa for Canada. To fly to or through a Canadian airport they need an eTA, which costs CAD $7 and does not need a photo. Foreign residents of Singapore who need a Canada visitor visa (temporary resident visa) follow IRCC's photo specification: at least 35 × 45 mm, head 31–36 mm from chin to crown, on a plain white or light-coloured background, taken within the last 6 months.
Canada visa photo size and requirements
| Photo size | At least 35 mm wide × 45 mm high |
|---|---|
| Head size | 31–36 mm from chin to crown |
| Framing | Full front view of the head and tops of the shoulders, face centred |
| Background | Plain white or light-coloured |
| Expression | Neutral: neither frowning nor smiling, mouth closed |
| Glasses | Non-tinted prescription glasses if your eyes are clearly visible; no sunglasses |
| Head covering | Religious head coverings allowed if your facial features are not hidden |
| Photo age | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Prints | Two identical photos on quality photographic paper, colour or black and white |
Write your name and date of birth on the back of each print. Digital photos must not be altered.
Do Singaporeans need a photo for the Canada eTA?
No. Singapore is on Canada's visa-exempt list, so you apply online for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) before you fly. You need your passport, a credit card and an email address; there is no photo to upload. The eTA costs CAD $7, is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, and most applications are approved within minutes. You need it only when you fly to or transit through a Canadian airport.
Visitor visa photos and biometrics in Singapore
Most visitor visa applicants give fingerprints and a photo (biometrics) by appointment at the VFS Global Canada visa application centre in Singapore. IRCC's visitor visa guide says that if you need to give biometrics, you do not need to include paper photos. Biometrics stay valid for 10 years.
If the online checklist still asks for a digital photo, upload one that meets the specification above. IRCC does not publish a separate pixel size for visitor visa photos.
Sample photos
Samples show pose, lighting and background. Crop your own photo to the Canada visa size.
Canada visa photo FAQ
At least 35 mm wide by 45 mm high, with the head measuring 31–36 mm from chin to crown.
No. IRCC asks for a neutral expression, neither frowning nor smiling, with your mouth closed.
IRCC's visitor visa guide says applicants who give biometric fingerprints and photo do not need to include paper photos.
Official sources
- IRCC: Temporary resident visa photo specifications
- IRCC: Entry requirements by country
- IRCC: eTA facts
- IRCC: Guide 5256, applying for a visitor visa
- IRCC: Biometrics
- VFS Global: Canada visa application centre, Singapore
Last checked October 2026. Requirements and fees can change, so always confirm with the issuing agency before you apply. This site is independent and not affiliated with any government agency.