Huge passport change is landing today
NEW British passports designs are being rolled out today – but can you spot what’s changed?
The current front cover, Queen Elizabeth II’s Coat of Arms will be replaced by King Charles’ updated version.
Alongside the update to the exterior the inside pages have had a makeover too.
Natural landscapes from all four UK nations from Ben Nevis, the Lake District, Three Cliffs Bay and the Giant’s Causeway depicted in watercolour will decorate the inside pages.
But, the pages won’t just look better, they will also be better protected against forgery or tampering.
By using holographs and translucent features within the designs the document is now more secure than ever.
Similar to the old design the photograph page is made from an ultra-thin polycarbonate, which is pretty hard-wearing, meaning it stays easily protected.
Also there is now a unique passport number built into each one using laser marking.
Thanks to all the new features the UK government claim this makes it the “most secure British passport ever made”.
Migration and citizenship minister Mike Tapp said the redesign is “a new era in the history of the British passport”.
He added: “It also demonstrates our commitment to outstanding public service – celebrating British heritage while ensuring our passports remain among the most secure and trusted in the world for years to come.”
Some people may have started receiving their flashy new passport as anyone who applied for a new passport in the last month will be getting the updated version.
Don’t panic as passports featuring Queen Elizabeth II’s coat of arms will still be valid until their expiry date, the government said.
Since 2023, newly issued passports have been in the King’s name, but the coat of arms hasn’t been changed.
Up until today the last redesign of the British passport was in 2020 when EU burgundy colour was replaced with a navy blue cover after Brexit.
Millions of Brits still have dark red passports which are permitted for use until they expire.
Since Brexit, any additional months on top of the 10 year validity of passports are no longer accepted.
For more on passport rules – check out the common mistakes people make that put their holidays in jeopardy.
Plus, everything you need to know about the new European entry rules next month – and how it will affect your holiday.