The United Kingdom will witness the issuance of the first British passports bearing the title “His Majesty” this week. However, it is important to note that the current King himself will not possess one of these passports.
Following Brexit, the official travel documents were revived with traditional dark blue covers and were supplied in the name of “Her Majesty” for over 70 years during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. This marks the first instance since 1952, at the end of the reign of the last male monarch, King George VI, that British passports will be issued under the title “His Majesty.”
It should be clarified that the King does not possess a passport nor require one for international travel. While he previously held a passport as the Prince of Wales, as the sovereign, he no longer requires one since British passports are issued in the name of the reigning monarch.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman hailed this development as a “new era in history,” stating, “For 70 years, Her Majesty has adorned British passports, and many of us cannot recall a time when she did not feature. Today marks a significant moment in UK history as the first British passports since 1952 will bear the title of His Majesty, the King.”
The first page of the new passports will display a representation of the Royal Arms and include the following text: “His Britannic Majesty’s Secretary of State requests and requires in the name of His Majesty all those whom it may concern to allow the bearer to pass freely without let or hindrance, and to afford the bearer such assistance and protection as may be necessary.”
The introduction of these passports will occur gradually, as the remaining stock featuring “Her Majesty” will be used until exhausted. This approach aligns with the decision made by Royal Mail, which will continue to use stamps bearing the image of the late Queen until supplies are depleted. This initiative reflects the King’s request to avoid wastage.
