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The Challenge
Congolese citizens in USA, Canada, or Mexico applying for travel documents (Laissez-Passer) or visa applicants to Republic of Congo need 2×2 inch (51×51mm) photos—different from the 40×40mm CEMAC format used in-country. Embassy in Washington DC specifically requires this North American format.
This format is ONLY for applications from USA, Canada, or Mexico
- Embassy in Washington DC requires 2×2 inch (51×51mm) photos
- In-country CEMAC passport applications use 40×40mm format instead
- CEMAC passports cannot be issued outside Republic of Congo
- This format is for Travel Documents (Laissez-Passer) and visa applications only
Why 2×2 inch format from North America?
The Republic of Congo Embassy in Washington DC adopted the US-standard 2×2 inch (51×51mm) photo format for consular services processed in North America. This applies to Travel Documents (Laissez-Passer) for Congolese citizens with expired passports, visa applications for foreign nationals, and lost passport certificates. The 2×2 inch format is readily available at US photo services (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) making it accessible for applicants. CEMAC passport applications require physical presence in Congo and use the separate 40×40mm format.
Photo requirements for Congo Embassy in Washington DC
- 2×2 inches (51×51mm) square dimensions
- Two identical coloured photographs required
- White background, no shadows or patterns
- Head height 1–1⅜ inches (50–69% of frame)
- Taken within last 6 months
- Face centered, neutral expression, mouth closed
- Eyes open and fully visible
- No glasses unless medical exemption
- 1200×1200 pixels at 600 DPI for digital submission
- Printed on matte photo paper for physical submission
Travel Document (Laissez-Passer) application
Congolese citizens in the USA, Canada, or Mexico with expired or lost passports must apply for a Travel Document (Laissez-Passer) at the Embassy in Washington DC. The Laissez-Passer is valid for 30 days, one-way travel to Republic of Congo only. Once in Congo, applicants must apply for a new CEMAC biometric passport. Required documents include: two 2×2 inch colour photos, copy of previous passport or birth certificate, police report (if stolen), official letter to the Ambassador, and applicable fees. Embassy processing takes 5–7 business days with no expedited service available.
Visa application from USA
All visitors to the Republic of Congo require a visa obtained before departure—no visas are issued at ports of entry. The Embassy in Washington DC processes visa applications for residents of USA, Canada, and Mexico. Visa photos must be 2×2 inches with white background. Required supporting documents vary by visa type but include valid passport with 6+ months validity, flight itinerary, invitation letter (business), hotel booking (tourist), yellow fever vaccination certificate, and applicable fees. Processing time is 5–7 business days.
Where to print 2×2 inch photos in North America
- CVS Passport Photo Service: $14.99 for 2 photos (specify 2×2 inch)
- Walgreens: $14.99 for 2 photos
- Walmart: $7.44 for 2 photos
- Costco Photo Center: $4.99 (members only)
- This tool: Free—download and print at home on matte paper ($0.25–0.50)
- Tip: Standard US passport photo is 2×2 inch—any US passport photo service produces the correct size
Embassy of the Republic of Congo contact and hours
Embassy of the Republic of Congo, Consulate Section, 1720 16th Street NW, Washington DC 20009. Telephone: (202) 726-5500 / (202) 986-5740. Email: [email protected]. Drop-off hours: Monday–Friday 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Pick-up hours: 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Processing time: 5–7 business days. No rush or expedited services available. Payment: cash (in person) or money orders payable to 'Embassy of the Republic of Congo.' Business cheques not accepted.
Official Resources
Step-by-Step Workflow
Upload Photo
Position Head Using Guidelines
Select Enhancement
Download or Print Sheet
Specifications
- Photo Size
- 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) – square format
- Resolution
- 1200×1200 pixels at 600 DPI
- Head Height
- 1–1⅜ inches (50–69% of frame)
- Background
- White (required)
- Recency
- Taken within last 6 months
- Expression
- Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open
- Paper Type
- Matte photo paper
- Valid For
- Travel document (Laissez-Passer), visa from USA/Canada/Mexico
Best Practices
- 2×2 inch format is standard US passport photo size—any US photo service can produce it
- Embassy requires TWO identical coloured photographs for all applications
- Travel Document (Laissez-Passer) is one-way only—you must get a new CEMAC passport in Congo
- No visas are issued at ports of entry in Republic of Congo—apply before departure
- Embassy only accepts cash (in person) or money orders—no business cheques
- Processing takes 5–7 business days with no expedited option
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for all visa applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the photo size different from in-country Congo passport photos?
Republic of Congo Embassy in Washington DC adopted US-standard 2×2 inch format for North American applications. In-country CEMAC passport applications use 40×40mm. The embassy adapted to locally available photo sizes for convenience.
Can I use standard US passport photos for Congo embassy applications?
Yes. US passport photos are 2×2 inches—the same size required by the Republic of Congo Embassy in Washington DC. Ensure white background and neutral expression.
Can the embassy issue a CEMAC passport?
No. The Embassy in Washington DC does not process passport applications. CEMAC biometric passports can only be obtained in person in the Republic of Congo. The embassy issues Travel Documents (Laissez-Passer) for one-way travel to Congo.
How long is a Travel Document (Laissez-Passer) valid?
30 days, one-way travel to Republic of Congo only. You cannot use it to travel to any other country or return to USA/Canada/Mexico. Apply for a new CEMAC passport while in Congo.
How many photos do I need?
Two identical 2×2 inch coloured photographs for Travel Document applications. Visa applications also require photos—check specific visa type requirements with the embassy.
Does this work for Congo visa applications from Canada and Mexico?
Yes. The Republic of Congo Embassy in Washington DC serves USA, Canada, and Mexico. Same 2×2 inch photo format for all three countries.