An official booklet issued by a government identifies a person as a citizen and requests safe passage while abroad. That document is a passport. It is the primary credential for international travel.

Passports contain biographical data, a photograph, and pages for visas and entry stamps. Validity periods are limited; many countries require remaining validity of several months beyond the planned stay. Lost or stolen passports must be reported and replaced through consular processes, which can disrupt a trip.

Some nations allow dual citizenship and multiple passports; others do not. Security features have increased to combat fraud. For the traveler, safeguarding the passport is a constant practical concern. Without it, crossing most international borders becomes impossible.

• Official identity document for international travel
• Issued by a national government to its citizens
• Required for border crossing and many formalities
• Must be kept valid and secure while traveling