Some interesting info to learn about one of the most coveted passports in the world!
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One of the most powerful passports in the world
The UK passport currently ranks in 7th place according to the Guide Passport Ranking Index. It allows its holder to visit 132 countries without a visa.
It’s cheaper to apply for a British passport online than by post
Digitalisation is well underway in the UK. You can apply for a new British passport online from anywhere in the world, as well as to use a digital UK passport photo for the application. You save about £9.50 pounds when applying online.
One of the most expensive passports
Ranging from £75.50 (online application for a 34-page version) to £95 (paper form application for a 50-page version), the British passport ranks 11th on the list of the most expensive travel documents, consisting of 51 countries. The most expensive passport in the world is the Turkish passport at around €300.
The Queen does not use a passport.
Under the laws of the British monarchy, a passport to a British citizen is issued by order of the Queen. That is why formally Her Majesty does not need a passport. And even when Elizabeth II travels abroad, she does so without a passport. But all other members of the royal family still do need a travel document.
The first UK passport was designed by King Henry V
He insisted on ensuring that his subjects could prove their identity abroad and were not harassed while not on the British soil.
Double passports
The UK is on the list of a few countries allowing citizens to have a second passport. This is very useful if you need to travel frequently: while one is in the visa office awaiting approval you can use a second one.
Why blue again?
Since 1988, the colour of the British passport cover had been burgundy, but since Brexit the UK has reverted to its original colour: blue. While burgundy was the colour to reflect alignment with other neighbouring EU countries, blue passports can often represent a new world.
