What is a passport - Info sheet

A passport is an essential legal document required for international travel. It serves as proof of one's identity and nationality, allowing individuals to enter and exit foreign countries. Passports typically contain a photograph of the holder, as well as personal details such as their date of birth and a unique identification number. As travellers move between countries, their passports are stamped with the date of entry and exit, providing a record of their movements. Following Brexit, the United Kingdom has issued new black passports, although the previous purple ones remain valid for use for now.

Check-in at an airport is a crucial process that marks the beginning of one's journey by air. During check-in, travellers confirm their presence for the flight, receive their boarding tickets, check in their luggage for transport in the aircraft's hold, and present their passports for international trips. While modern technology allows for online check-in, it is still mandatory to show one's passport and handle luggage at the airport. Adhering to specific procedures at airports, such as check-in and security checks, ensures the safety and orderliness of air travel, helping to maintain a secure environment for all passengers.