• Facing forward looking straight towards the camera
• Eyes open and clearly visible
• No tint or reflection on your glasses
• No face or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons
• Head and shoulders only
• No filters or digitally-enhanced images
• Photo must be colour
• A white or blank wall background
• JPEG images only (.jpg or .jpeg file types)
• File size is limited to 2 megabytes (MB)
• Smiling is allowed!

If your photo does not meet the requirements, you will be notified by email and you will need to re-submit your photo.

Once your photo is uploaded, please allow up to two business days for processing. You will receive an email when your card has been printed and is available for pickup.

Please bring one piece of government-issued photo identification to show when you pick up your VIU card. It is not possible to have a friend or family member pick up your card on your behalf.  

Nanaimo Campus

Cards are available for pickup from the Library Service Desk in building 305 during open hours.  

The Nanaimo Campus will have an outdoor photo ID pickup location September 6 - 16, outside of the main library entrance, building 305. Cards will be available for pick up from 10 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday.

Cowichan Campus

Cards are available for pickup from the library service desk during open hours. 

Powell River Campus

Cards can be picked up from the campus reception desk during open hours. You will be notified when your card is ready for pickup.