ZM Zambia visa 2x2 inches (from USA) Photo Requirements Guide - Official Guidelines

Requirements

• Photo size: 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) exact, no cropping, borders or cutting outside dimensions
• Background: plain white or off-white, smooth, no patterns, textures, shadows or objects visible
• Head position: directly facing camera with full face centered and no tilt, shoulders squared
• Head size: between 1 inch and 1 ⅜ inches (25–35 mm) from chin to crown, occupying about 50–70% of image
• Eye level: 1 ⅛ inches to 1 ⅜ inches (28–35 mm) from bottom edge of photo, gaze straight at lens
• Expression: neutral with both eyes open and mouth closed, no smiling, frowning or raised eyebrows
• Attire and accessories: everyday clothing (no uniforms or camouflage), minimal jewelry, no large hair accessories
• Glasses and eyewear: remove all glasses; exceptions only for medical reasons with a signed doctor’s note, no glare or tinted lenses
• Head coverings and hats: not permitted except for daily religious use, must not cast shadows or obscure hairline and face
• Photo quality: high resolution (min 600 dpi), sharp focus, true-to-life color, no creases, ink marks or digital artifacts
• Recent photograph: taken within the last six months reflecting current appearance (hair, glasses, facial hair)
• Children and infants: alone in frame, eyes open if possible, no toys, pacifiers, hands or supporting objects visible

Step-by-Step Process

Content about ZM Zambia visa 2x2 inches (from USA) Photo Requirements Guide - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Accurate 2"x2" cropping: use a template or professional tool to ensure the photo is exactly 2×2 inches with head height between 1" and 1 3/8"—incorrect sizing is the #1 cause of rejection
• Plain white or off-white background: shoot against a uniform background free of shadows or textures—non-uniform or patterned backdrops lead to instant refusal
• Neutral expression and direct gaze: maintain a closed mouth and relaxed face looking straight at the camera—smiling or tilting your head can interfere with biometric matching
• No eyeglasses or headwear: remove glasses to prevent glare and reflections and avoid hats or scarves unless required for religious reasons—any obstruction of facial features risks refusal
• Recent photo within 6 months: submit only a very recent image reflecting your current appearance—older photos can fail to match identity verification standards

Conclusion

In summary, a successful Zambia visa photo from the USA hinges on precise adherence to size, composition and quality standards. By following the guidelines below, applicants can minimize the risk of rejection and ensure a smooth visa application process.

Key Points Summary:

• Photo size: exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) with no borders
• Head position: 1–4 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to crown, centered vertically and horizontally
• Background: uniform white or off-white, no shadows, textures or objects
• Expression & posture: neutral expression, eyes open, mouth closed, straight-on view
• Attire & accessories: no hats or head coverings (unless for religious reasons), no tinted glasses, frames must not obscure eyes
• Image quality: high resolution (minimum 600 dpi), sharp focus, natural color balance, no red-eye or reflections
• Print & digital specs: professional lab–printed on matte or glossy photo paper or digital JPEG ≤240 KB, 24-bit color
• Common pitfalls: uneven lighting, incorrect head size, visible background creases, photo borders, outdated images

Next Steps:

• Verify dimensions and head placement with a ruler or photo-cropping tool
• Check lighting and background uniformity before shooting
• Submit latest image (taken within last 6 months) printed or digitally formatted to spec
• Use a certified photo service or VisaPics’ online tool for guaranteed compliance