First-Time EG Egypt passport (from USA only) 2x2 inch, 51x51 mm Application Tips - Beginner's Guide

Requirements

• Proof of Egyptian Citizenship: submit original Egyptian National ID (Bil El-Watan) or family registry (“Red Book”), plus your consular‐registered birth certificate if born in the USA
• Completed Passport Application Form: download the official form from the Egyptian Consulate website, fill in black ink, sign where indicated, and date
• Two Passport Photos (2×2 in/51×51 mm): white background, full face centered (head height 1–1⅜ in/25–35 mm), neutral expression, no glasses or headgear (unless religious), printed matte within last 6 months
• Proof of US Legal Status: photocopy of valid US visa & I-94, Green Card, or US passport (for dual nationals) to confirm lawful presence in the consular district
• Valid US Driver’s License or State ID: current, government‐issued photo ID to verify your identity and US address
• Military Service Status (Male Applicants 18–40): original “براءة ذمة” (military clearance) or exemption document from Egyptian authorities if applicable
• Consular Appointment Confirmation: schedule and print your appointment slot via the Egyptian Consulate’s online booking system for your jurisdiction
• Passport Fee Payment: purchase a money order or cashier’s check payable to “Consulate General of Egypt” for the current fee (approx. USD 115 for 5-year passport)
• Parental Consent for Minors: both parents’ presence or notarized consent letters plus parents’ Egyptians IDs and child’s US birth certificate for applicants under 16
• Self‐Addressed Return Envelope: include a prepaid, trackable USPS Priority Mail envelope if you choose mail‐back service instead of in‐person pickup
• Name Translation Consistency: ensure your name spelling matches exactly on your US documents and Egyptian National ID to avoid processing delays
• Submission & Processing: arrive 15 minutes early, submit documents in person at your consular appointment, and expect a 4–6 week turnaround (expedited service may be available)

Step-by-Step Process

Content about First-Time EG Egypt passport (from USA only) 2x2 inch, 51x51 mm Application Tips - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Dimension Accuracy: Ensure exactly 2×2" (51×51 mm) print with approx. 1–1⅜" head height and ⅛–⅜" top margin because Egypt’s consular services reject any off-size submissions—use online cropping tools or U.S. passport-photo template overlays.
• Solid Background: Shoot against a uniform white or off-white background free of shadows or textures because Egypt passport officers disqualify photos with any background inconsistencies—stand 8–12" from a plain wall or backdrop.
• Neutral Expression & Pose: Face the camera squarely with a neutral expression, eyes open and mouth closed, and both ears visible because tilted heads or smiles can cause biometric-scan failures—mark eye level and remove glasses to avoid glare.
• Optimal Lighting: Use even, diffuse lighting on both sides to eliminate shadows, glare or red-eye because uneven illumination skews facial-feature detection—aim for balanced LED panels or natural daylight without flash reflections.
• Quality Printing & Paper: Print on high-resolution (≥600 dpi), matte or semi-matte photo paper with no borders at USPS, FedEx Office, Walgreens or an embassy-approved lab because low-quality prints and borders trigger instant rejections.

Conclusion

By strictly adhering to the 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) photo specs and carefully preparing all required documents, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth first-time Egyptian passport application in the USA.

Key Takeaways:

• Photo dimension: exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) square
• Head size: 25–35 mm from chin to crown
• Background: plain white, uniform lighting, no shadows or patterns
• Expression: neutral face, mouth closed, eyes open and looking straight
• Print quality: high resolution on matte or glossy photo paper
• Documents: original birth certificate, U.S. ID/passport copy, Egyptian ID or family registry
• Appointment: schedule early at your local Egyptian consulate
• Fees: confirm current consular fees and acceptable payment methods
• Processing time: allow 4–6 weeks and use the consulate’s tracking system