If you are a permanent resident of Canada, you likely need a PR card to prove your status and travel internationally. An important part of the PR card application is providing passport-style photos that meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's (IRCC) requirements. Finding a place to take suitable PR card photos can be a challenge. Here are some options to consider near you.
Photography Studios
Many photography studios offer passport and ID photography services. Studios will have the proper camera, lighting, and backdrop set up to take photos that meet PR card requirements. Bring a comb or brush to fix your hair and don't wear glasses or hats. Call studios in advance to ask if they do passport/PR card photos and make an appointment.
Camera Stores
Large camera stores like Henry's, Blacks, and Kerrisdale Cameras have self-serve photo booths to take PR pictures. They provide the measured background and stool for you to sit on. Instructions are provided on how to sit and look straight ahead. Bring $15 CAD for a strip of photos. Photos may be cropped to the proper size or double check they meet PR card dimensions.
Drug Stores and Pharmacies
Many pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall have photo centers that take passport amd ID photos. Quality may vary, so inspect photos to ensure they meet PR card requirements before leaving the store. Photos cost around $15 CAD. Ask the photo technician to not cut the photos in advance in case cropping is needed.
Mobile Photo Services
Several companies like Passport Photo Service and Mr. Passport will come to your home or office to take passport photos. Photographers bring the required camera and backdrop setup. This can be a convenient option if you have limited mobility or transportation. Expect to pay around $30 CAD or more for home service.
Online ID Photo Editor
If you are looking for a more cost-effective solution, it's best to consider online photo editing tools. For examples, AiPassportPhotos lets you create a compliant and quality PR card photo, costing 2 free credits. Simply upload a regular or existing photo, it can automatically fix background and resize photo to required dimensions. No professional skill or manual editing is needed.
You also can make photo for passport, PAL license, driving license, visa and other documents. It comes with compliance check, which can verify if your photo is compliant with official requirements. It works like your digital photo booth, while saving both time and cost.
How Much Does it Cost to Get PR Card Photo in Canada?
The cost to get PR card photos taken in Canada typically ranges from $15-$30 CAD. Here are some more details on typical PR card photo pricing:
Photography studios - $20-$30 per set of photos. Many studios offer special PR card and passport photo packages.
Camera stores - Around $15 CAD for a strip of 4-6 PR card photos from a photo booth. Additional $5-10 if photos need to be reprinted or cropped.
Drug stores/pharmacies - Usually $15-$20 per set of photos through their photo service.
Mobile photo services - $30 CAD or more for home/office service. More convenient but pricier.
DIY at home - Cost of printing photos, if you have your own backdrop and lighting. Risks photos being rejected if specs aren't met.
Most places will provide 2-3 sets of photos in one session for the base pricing above. You'll need one set to submit with your PR card application and extras to carry as identification.
Be sure to call ahead for current pricing at any photo provider you choose. There may be additional fees like tax, cropping, and retouching. Avoid surprises by asking about their full PR card photo service cost upfront. With professional photos in hand, you can apply for your PR card without delay.
Can I Use Selfie as My PR Card Photo?
No, Canadian PR card photo has specific requirements. The photo size measures 50x70mm and it should be taken against a plain and white background. Plus, one of your PR card photos should include some information on its back, such as:
The subject's name and date of birth
The name and complete address of photo studio
The date of the photography taken
The photographer may use a stamp or handwrite this information
Conclusion
Taking your own PR card photos is risky - it's easy to make small mistakes that could delay your application. Using a professional service nearby ensures photos meet IRCC's specs. Book your appointment or walk-in a few weeks before submitting your PR card application. With the right photos in hand, you'll be ready to prove your permanent resident status.
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