How to Remove Background in Canva

Canva offers a built-in Background Remover tool, but it requires a Canva Pro subscription. Follow along to learn how it works — and discover a free AI alternative.

Step 1: Open Your Design in Canva

Go to Canva and open an existing design or create a new one. Upload the image you want to edit by dragging it onto the canvas or using the Uploads tab.

Step 2: Select the Image

Click on the image in your design to select it. A toolbar will appear above the canvas with editing options.

Step 3: Use Background Remover (Pro Feature)

Click Edit Image in the top toolbar, then select Background Remover. Canva will automatically detect and remove the background. Note: Background Remover is a Canva Pro feature — you will need a paid subscription to use it. Free users will see a lock icon and a prompt to upgrade.

Step 4: Review the Result

Once Canva removes the background, inspect the edges closely. Canva's AI works well on simple images but may struggle with complex edges like hair or fur. If the result is not clean enough, you can try the Eraser tool to manually refine edges.

Step 5: Download or Continue Designing

When you are happy with the result, you can continue designing in Canva or download the image. Use Share → Download, choose PNG format (to keep the transparent background), and click Download.

Canva Pro vs AI: Free Background Removal

Canva's background remover requires a Pro subscription. Erase Background Pro offers free AI background removal — no account needed, no subscription.

Try Free AI Background Remover

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