First-Time EG Egypt passport (from USA only) 2x2 inch, 51x51 mm Application Tips - Beginner's Guide
Navigating your first-time Egyptian passport application from the United States can feel like charting unfamiliar territory, but getting your 2×2-inch (51×51 mm) photo right is one surefire way to avoid delays and headaches. With strict Egyptian government guidelines on head size, background color, and print quality, a single misstep—like an off-shade background or an oversized silhouette—can send your application back to square one. In the paragraphs that follow, you’ll find expert-verified tips on selecting the perfect photo studio, meeting every technical specification, and previewing your final print to ensure instant approval. Follow these insights to turn what often becomes a stumbling block into a smooth, stress-free step toward securing your very first Egyptian passport.
Requirements
- Photo specifications: 2×2 in (51×51 mm) color photo on plain white background, head centered, neutral expression, no shadows or reflections
- Photo head size: head height between 1 in and 1 3/8 in (25 mm–35 mm) from chin to crown, eyes 1 1/8 in–1 3/8 in from bottom of photo
- Photo quality: printed on matte or glossy high-resolution photo paper (minimum 600 dpi), no inkjet dots, no alterations or retouching
- Number of photos: two identical unmounted photos taken within the last six months, do not staple or tape to application
- Application form: completed Egyptian passport application (Form EG-P1) typed or handwritten in black/blue ink, fully signed and dated
- Appointment booking: schedule and confirm your in-person appointment at the nearest Egyptian Consulate in the USA via official consular website
- Proof of Egyptian nationality: original National ID (Bil Mahia) and copy; if unavailable, expired Egyptian passport or nativity certificate
- Proof of US residency: original US driver’s license or valid green card and a clear photocopy of both sides
- Civil documents: original birth certificate plus a certified English translation (if not in Arabic/English) and one photocopy
- Parental consent (minors): both parents’ IDs and signatures on consent form, minors must appear with legal guardians at appointment
- Payment of fees: consulate-specified fee via US postal money order to “Egyptian Consulate,” plus $10 return postage fee in included envelope
- Return envelope: pre-paid, self-addressed USPS Priority Mail envelope with tracking number clearly labeled and included in your submission
- Submission order: organize documents in this order—application form, photos, nationality proof, residency proof, civil documents, fees, return envelope
- Processing time and tracking: standard processing 4–6 weeks, expedited 2–3 weeks (additional fee); request tracking receipt when you submit
- Post-submission follow-up: call or email consulate after 2 weeks for status, keep your receipt number handy for inquiries
Step-by-Step Process
- Gather Required Documents: Collect your Egyptian birth certificate or family status record, your U.S. birth certificate, parents’ Egyptian passports (copies), your U.S. legal status proof (green card or valid visa), and your consular registration certificate (Form 4). Ensure originals and one set of clear photocopies for each item.
- Secure a Certified 2x2-inch (51×51 mm) Photo: Visit a professional photo studio and request an Egyptian passport photo. Confirm: white background, head height 25–35 mm, shoulders visible, neutral expression, no glasses or headwear, high-resolution matte print. Label the back with your name and date of birth.
- Download and Complete the Passport Application Form: Access the Egyptian Consulate website for Form 4 (First-Time Passport). Fill every field in black ink, print clearly, and leave the signature line blank until you’re at the consulate or a notarization appointment.
- Obtain Parental Consent (Minors Only): If applicant is under 21, both parents must sign the Parental Consent section in front of a consular officer or notary. If one parent is unavailable, submit a notarized Affidavit of Single Parent accompanied by a family court order.
- Notarize U.S. Documents and Signatures: Have all U.S.-issued documents (birth certificate, proof of status) and the unsigned application form notarized in the U.S. Confirm the notary stamps each photocopy. Bring originals for verification at the consulate.
- Calculate and Prepare Fees: Determine your fee based on passport type (36 pages – US$90; 64 pages – US$120) plus a US$25 return mail fee. Obtain a U.S. postal money order payable to “Consulate General of the Arab Republic of Egypt.” Do not send cash or personal checks.
- Assemble Your Application Packet: In a single envelope include: • Originals + photocopies of documents • Completed, notarized application form • Two certified photos • Money order(s) • Self-addressed, prepaid USPS Express return envelope Seal the packet securely and affix any required customs forms if mailing internationally.
- Mail to the Correct Consulate Jurisdiction: Send via USPS Express to the Egyptian Consulate responsible for your state: • New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles or Houston. Verify your jurisdiction online. Retain the tracking number.
- Track and Follow Up: Monitor USPS tracking daily. After six weeks, call the consulate with your application number to confirm receipt and processing status. Resolve any missing-item requests immediately via email or fax.
- Receive and Verify Your New Passport: Once received in your prepaid return envelope or in person, check all details (name spelling, expiration date, photo alignment). Report any errors within 48 hours to the consulate for a free reissue.
- Register Your New Passport with the Consulate: Submit a scanned copy of the new biographical page via the consulate’s online portal to update your consular records—ensuring you remain eligible for Egyptian consular services in the U.S.
Tips and Best Practices
Content about First-Time EG Egypt passport (from USA only) 2x2 inch, 51x51 mm Application Tips - tips
Conclusion
In summary, securing your first-time Egyptian passport photo from the USA means adhering strictly to the 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) specifications and following each procedural step to avoid delays. Use the checklist below to confirm you’ve met every requirement before submitting your application.
Key Takeaways:
- Photo dimensions: exactly 2×2 in (51×51 mm) with head height between 1″–1⅜″ (25–35 mm) and eye line 1 ⅛″–1 ⅜″ (28–35 mm) from bottom edge
- Background & pose: plain white background, full-face view, neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open, no shadows or reflections
- Recent & quality: taken within the last 6 months, 600 dpi resolution, printed on high-quality matte or glossy photo paper without borders
- Appearance rules: no glasses, hats, head coverings (unless for religious reasons with facial features fully visible), uniform jewelry minimized
- Application steps: complete DS-11 form, gather proof of U.S. residency and Egyptian nationality, schedule your embassy/consulate appointment, pay fees, bring printed photos plus digital image file
- Final check: use a professional visa-photo service or self-audit against official guidelines to ensure 100% compliance
By ticking off each item above, you’ll present a flawless photo that meets Egyptian consular standards and keeps your passport application on track.
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