World leaders and heads of state frequently travel abroad to represent their countries and maintain diplomatic relations. However, some leaders and heads of government may have a different privilege than other citizens during these trips: the right to travel without a passport.
This is a right that is generally recognized diplomatically. Although it is not said that it is used personally, why do only certain people have this right?
All countries generally require travel documents such as a visa or passport from foreign visitors.
Depending on the countries you want to travel to without a passport, you should check whether those countries have visa exemptions or related agreements.
However, in some cases, there may be visa exemption agreements that allow citizens of certain countries to travel without the need for a visa. For example, there is an agreement that provides free movement between Schengen Area countries without passport or visa requirements. However, this agreement is only valid for Schengen Area countries.
So who are these privileged people who can enter every country we can think of without a passport?
As you can imagine, before her death, Queen Elizabeth could travel without a passport as a UK citizen. This is not actually a privilege because she is the Queen of the United Kingdom; It was a general right and privilege enjoyed by citizens of the United Kingdom.
When Queen Elizabeth traveled to other countries on official state visits or special diplomatic missions, she could be exempt from passport and visa requirements as per diplomatic protocol. This is a result of international relations and diplomatic missions.
There is no need for passports for the king and queen, as all British passports are already issued in the name of their majesty.
Just like Elizabeth, King Charles has this right. Unlike Elizabeth, a document is given that is notified in advance only to the countries she will visit. According to the information on the official website of the British Royal family, the Queen does not need to have a passport as the British passport is issued in the name of Her Majesty. All members of the Royal Family, including the Duke of Edinburgh and the Prince of Wales, have their own passports.
In addition to these privileges, Queen Elizabeth also had the right to drive a car “without a licence”. Just like the passport, the driver’s license was issued in his honor, so he did not need a driver’s license issued in his name.
The Japanese emperor and empress also have such a right for the same reason.
Yes, the Japanese emperor and empress can travel to many countries around the world without a passport. But similarly, this privilege is not a requirement of diplomatic protocols, but a general right and privilege enjoyed by Japanese citizens.
When the Japanese emperor and empress wish to travel to other countries as part of official state visits or diplomatic missions, diplomatic exemptions and special regulations apply. However, in cases such as personal holidays or special travels, the Japanese emperor and empress must comply with passport and visa requirements like other Japanese citizens. High-ranking government officials, such as the emperor and empress, may receive special treatment during official state visits, but are subject to general travel rules on personal travel.
Other heads of state are also required to have their diplomatic passports with them during their official visits between countries.
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