The United Kingdom passport holds a high position globally, allowing citizens who possess this passport visa-free access to many different countries.

When discussing the United Kingdom passport ranking, it’s more accurate to refer to it as the British passport due to the country’s official name. This passport is notably powerful, ranking third. You can learn every detail about it in our article.

What are the Types of United Kingdom Passports?

The United Kingdom, ranking third in passport rankings, issues different types of passports. The red passport, which is also endowed with diplomatic features, is one type. Additionally, there is the blue service passport. And let’s not forget the ordinary passport for citizens, which appears in burgundy.

The issuance of these documents, known as United Kingdom passports, involves categorization based on whether the recipients are citizens or non-citizens. Here are the details:

• The passport issued with the GB code is for British citizens and is the most commonly issued type.
• Some passports bear the GBD notation, intended for citizens residing in British Overseas Territories.
• A distinct class of passports is issued for overseas country citizens.
• For British residents within the United Kingdom borders, passports are issued with the GBS code.
• If a person is a British citizen but does not have residency rights, they can still acquire a passport with the same code without any issue.
• There is also a passport for individuals under British protection, indicated by the code GBP.
• British nationals abroad are denoted with the GBN code.

All these are important details considered during the issuance of passports.

What is the Design of the United Kingdom Passport?

The United Kingdom passport, ranking third, clearly demonstrates the country’s power. Before discussing its design features, it’s important to note that it has changed a few times throughout history. The most recent design was officially introduced by state authorities in 2020.

Instead of the “England” inscription, the passport bears “United Kingdom” and “Northern Ireland” since Northern Ireland is also part of the Kingdom, a special designation reflected in the passport’s design.

Other features include:

• Available in 32-page and 50-page versions, affecting the price.
• Issued following a special application through the Foreign Office.
• Standard color is navy blue.
• The top of the passport features the British royal coat of arms, designed in gold.
• Like all country passports, it clearly includes the holder’s name, surname, gender, date of birth, and citizenship status.
• It also contains information about the issuing authority.

What is the Global Ranking of the United Kingdom Passport?

The United Kingdom passport ranking demonstrates the country’s political, diplomatic, and economic strength. It is considered one of the world’s most powerful passports, ranking third, allowing travel to 191 countries without visa issues.

The number of countries not requiring visas from United Kingdom passport holders globally is 145. Additionally, 36 countries provide visas on arrival or at the airport, a significant advantage for British citizens. 10 countries offer an immediate eTA visa, totaling 191 countries.

Which Countries Can Be Visited Visa-Free with a United Kingdom Passport?

Countries that do not require a visa for the United Kingdom passport: The British passport is exceptionally powerful, providing a significant advantage and convenience for British citizens. Without needing to apply for a visa, they can travel to countries such as:

Morocco, Finland, France, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Grenada, Greenland, South Africa, South Korea, Georgia, Netherlands, Germany, Argentina, Albania, Aruba, Austria, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, United Arab Emirates, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Cayman Islands, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, Dominica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, Costa Rica, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Macao, Poland, Portugal, Senegal, Serbia, Slovakia, Thailand, Taiwan, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Greece, and many more. For other countries not listed here, you can refer to our article.

Countries Offering Visa-on-Arrival for United Kingdom Passport Holders:

Visa-on-arrival is also an option, and the requirements for these visas vary by country. Generally, the process is not overly demanding, allowing for quick completion.

Essential for this process is a valid passport. Some countries may request a return flight ticket, visa fee, and proof of financial means from travelers. Regardless of the requirements, British citizens are not subject to rejection under this system. Countries with this system include:

Bahrain, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Guinea-Bissau, Iraq, Cambodia, Qatar, Comoros, Kuwait, Laos, Lebanon, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Egypt, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Tuvalu, Oman, Jordan, Zimbabwe.

Countries Providing eTA for United Kingdom Passport Holders:

Another type of visa, known as the Electronic Travel Authorization or eTA, is fast and easy to complete, providing an advantage for British citizens.

Countries such as the U.S. Virgin Islands, United States, American Samoa, Australia, Canada, Norfolk Island, Pakistan, Puerto Rico, Sri Lanka, New Zealand require this system for travelers holding a United Kingdom passport.

Which Countries Require Visas for United Kingdom Passport Holders?

Countries requiring online visas for the United Kingdom passport: Despite its high ranking, some countries still require online visas from United Kingdom passport holders. These include Azerbaijan, Benin, Bhutan, South Sudan, India, Cameroon, Kenya, Congo (Dem. Rep.), Myanmar, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Uganda.

Countries that require a visa for the United Kingdom passport: It’s important to note that some countries still demand traditional visas from United Kingdom passport holders. These include China, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ghana, Iran, Congo, Cuba, North Korea, Liberia, Central African Republic, Russian Federation, Sudan, Syria, Turkmenistan, Yemen.

It’s crucial to provide all requested documents without errors or omissions. Proper preparation and adherence to the required rules are essential for a successful application process.