LA Laos adoption visa 2x2 inch Application: Photo Guidelines (Step-by-Step)

Requirements

• Photo size: exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) printed on high-resolution photo paper
• Head position: full-face, frontal view with head centered and no tilt or turn
• Head height: between 1 inch and 1 3⁄8 inches (25 – 35 mm) measured from chin to top of crown
• Eye level: positioned 1 1⁄8 – 1 3⁄8 inches (28 – 35 mm) from bottom of photo, eyes clearly visible
• Background: uniform white or off-white with no patterns, textures, shadows, or objects
• Expression: neutral expression or natural smile with mouth closed and both eyes open
• Head covering: only for documented religious reasons; must not obscure any facial features
• Glasses: completely removed; no tinted lenses, frames must not cover any part of the eyes
• Photo age: taken within the last 6 months under normal lighting conditions
• Print quality: sharp focus, continuous tone, no pixelation, no ink smudges or color casts
• Digital specs (if submitting electronically): JPEG format, 600 dpi minimum resolution, no filters or retouching
• Quantity: submit two identical prints unstapled and unmounted with your application
• Clothing: everyday attire only; no uniforms, camouflage, or clothing matching the background color

Step-by-Step Process

• First step: Gather and prepare your 2×2 inch photos
• Size and format: Ensure each photo is exactly 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) with square contours and no borders
• Background: Use a plain white or off-white backdrop with no shadows, patterns, or objects visible
• Lighting and exposure: Illuminate the face evenly, avoid glare or dark spots, and ensure true-to-life skin tones
• Head position and framing: Center the head vertically and horizontally, leaving 1 – 1 3/8 inches (25 – 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head
• Expression and eyes: Maintain a neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and facing the camera, with no hair or accessories obscuring the face
• Attire and accessories: Wear everyday clothing—no uniforms, headwear unless for religious reasons (must not cast shadows on face)
• Second step: Verify, print, label, and submit your photos
• Quality check: Inspect under good light for focus, sharpness, and absence of red-eye or reflections
• Digital sizing and cropping: If using a digital file, confirm pixel dimensions match 600 × 600 px at 300 dpi; use official templates or government-approved tools
• Printing specifications: Print on high-quality photo paper with a matte or semi-gloss finish; do not use home inkjet printers below 300 dpi unless certified for passport photos
• Labeling and backing: On the back of each photo lightly write the applicant’s full name and case number in pencil or non-bleeding pen
• Attachment to application: Affix photos in the designated slots on the Form LA-Adopt-Visa using photo corners or tape on all four edges without covering the face image
• Final review and submission: Double-check location requirements, sign any required photo certification on your application, then submit with the complete adoption visa packet to the Laos Consular Section or designated agency by the filing deadline.

Tips and Best Practices

• Correct Photo Dimensions: Ensure a precise 2×2 inch print with head height between 1–1 ⅜ inches to avoid size-based rejections
• Plain White Background: Use a uniform, matte white backdrop with no patterns or shadows so your child’s features stand out and meet government standards
• Neutral Expression and Direct Gaze: Keep a natural, closed-mouth expression and look straight at the camera to satisfy biometric requirements and prevent retakes
• Even Lighting and No Shadows: Position lights evenly to eliminate facial and background shadows so the image remains clear and isn’t rejected for poor illumination
• No Glasses or Headwear: Remove eyewear and hats (unless medically necessary with documentation) to ensure unobstructed facial features for identity verification

Conclusion

In summary, to ensure your LA Laos adoption visa 2×2-inch photo meets official requirements and avoids delays:

• Size & Format: exactly 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) on high-quality photo paper or digital file per embassy specs
• Head Position: full-face view, centered, with head height 1 – 1 ⅜ inches (25 – 35 mm) from chin to crown
• Background & Lighting: plain white or off-white backdrop, even lighting with no shadows or reflections
• Expression & Appearance: neutral expression, eyes open and visible, no glasses glare or tinted lenses, minimal makeup
• Attire & Accessories: everyday clothing without uniforms, religious headwear permitted if it doesn’t obscure facial features
• Photo Quality & Recency: sharp focus, natural skin tones, printed within the last 6 months, no retouching or filters