How Long are Passport Photos Good for?

Did you have your passport photo recently taken or need to submit a new passport application; you may be wondering how long passport photos are good for? In this article, we will provide you with all the information necessary on how long passport photos are good for, and how to retake your passport photo in the most affordable and efficient way possible

Do passport photos expire?

Passport photos can expire, and, in some cases, you will be required to have a new photo taken. Here are a few reasons why you might need a new photo:

  • Your photo is over 6 months old before it has been submitted
  • Your photo is no longer an accurate representation of you
  • You are applying for a new passport

Additionally, it is important to note that passport photo can be denied by Passport Canada if they fail to meet the guidelines set out. For example, if your face is covered in the photo or it has a glare.

Can you reuse the same photo for passport?

Generally, you will need to take a new photo when applying for a passport in Canada. The one exception is if you are applying to replace a damaged, lost, or stolen passport. In that case, you may be permitted to reuse the same photo previously taken.

How long are passport photos good for (minor & adult)?

Any passport photo, whether adult or child is good for 6 months after is has been taken. If you fail to apply for a passport within this time constriction, you will need have your photo retaken. With that in mind, adult and child passport can differ in the length of time they remain valid. For example, an adult passport can be valid for 5 to 10 years, and a child’s passport will only be valid for 5 years.

Where to take a recent passport photo in Canada?

You can opt to have your passport photo taken anywhere from a pharmacy, superstore, post office, or local photo studio. However, for the cheapest and fastest option, we recommend using an online alternative like Smartphone iD.

Our app allows users to take a photo using their mobile phone in real time, and from the comfort of their home. In addition, the app uses AI verification to ensure that photos meet the guidelines of Passport Canada, so you can rest easy knowing the passport will conform to any country restriction.

How to take a recent passport photo online?

A passport photo can be taken online easily using an app like Smartphone. We offer users the chance to take an affordable and verified photo that will pass inspection on the first try.

Smartphone iD

Smartphone iD offers users the option to take a passport from home. It comes with easy-to-follow instructions for taking the perfect photo from your mobile device. We offer Ai verification with every photo to guarantee that the photo passes inspection, or money back!

Idphoto4you

IDphoto4you is another online free alternative that offers passport photo services. Using this app, you have the option to upload a photo from your computer and have it edited directly on your computer.

From these two choices, we recommend using a paid tool, so you can rest assured it will not be rejected by Passport Canada. Smartphone iD offers affordable prices and a compliance check to ensure the photo is up to standard and will be accepted on the first attempt.

What is the cost of a passport photo in Canada?

Passport photos in Canada range in value based on the service provider that you have chosen to use. Here are some of the estimated prices of popular providers:

  • Staples ($25)
  • Shoppers ($22)
  • Walmart ($13)
  • London Drugs ($12)
  • Smartphone iD (Low Cost)

How to replace your old passport photo with Smartphone iD?

If you want to take a new photo and replace your old one, consider downloading the Smartphone iD app. Our app allows you to take a passport photo from home using your mobile device in real time. Following this, the photo will be delivered to your inbox in minutes, and ready to be used to replace your existing passport photo.

Summary

In summary, if your passport is almost expired, or your photo has not been updated, it may be time to take a new one. Smartphone iD offers a user-friendly and affordable option to take your passport photo from home and have it ready in minutes. Don’t wait to download the app and start taking your passport photo today!

FAQ

Do you have to pay again if your passport photo is rejected?

If you use Smartphone iD, we guarantee that any rejected photo will come with a full refund. You will not need to pay again if the photo is rejected.

Do the guidelines for the validity of a passport photo differ for minors and adults?

Children and minors can only apply for passports that are valid for 5 years. Whereas, adults can have passports for 5 to 10 years.

Are there any exceptions to the validity period of passport photos, such as for medical or personal reasons?

Passport photos are valid for a total of 6 months before they must be submitted with an application. A photo may only be valid for a shorter period if your appearance drastically changes.  

How can one ensure that their passport photo is still valid before applying for a passport renewal?

Check when the passport photo had been taken and if it was taken within the last 6 months. Smartphone iD also provides a compliance check to ensure the passport photo meets any guidelines by the Passport Canada office.

Can I use a passport photo older than 6 months?

A passport older than 6 months will be denied by Passport Canada, and you will need to reapply in the future.

Can I reuse the same photo for a passport?

It is recommended that you take a new passport photo whenever applying for a passport renewal.

Do I need a new photo to renew my passport?

In most cases, you will need a new passport photo when applying for a new passport. An exception to this rule is if you had lost your passport or it was damaged.

What if you don’t look like your passport photo anymore?

If you no longer resemble the photo on your passport, you will need to take a new photo when your passport is to be renewed.

Can I take a passport photo with my phone?

Smartphone iD enables users to take an excellent passport photo using their mobile device. All you need to do is download the app and let it do the rest!

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