A new British passport, described as the most secure ever produced, has entered circulation featuring King Charles III's coat of arms on the front cover. The design replaces the late Queen Elizabeth II's coat of arms, which had remained in use since the first post-Brexit blue passports were introduced in 2020.
Inside, the passport showcases landscapes from all four UK nations: Ben Nevis in Scotland, the Lake District in England, the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland, and Three Cliffs Bay in Wales. The Home Office confirmed that 300 of the new passports are already in use.
The document incorporates advanced anti-forgery features, including holographs and translucent pages, making it easier to verify but harder to alter or counterfeit. Mike Tapp, the migration and citizenship minister, said: 'I'm proud to see our new British passports in circulation. Featuring His Majesty's coat of arms and landscapes from all four nations, they celebrate our heritage while delivering enhanced security.'
Existing passports with the late queen's coat of arms remain valid until their expiry date. The change follows the introduction of banknotes featuring King Charles in June 2024 and stamps with his silhouette in March 2023.
