For over a century, passports have been essential for international travel, required by everyone from ordinary citizens to heads of state. However, three prominent figures stand out as exceptions to this rule: the King of the United Kingdom, the Emperor of Japan, and the Empress.
These leaders enjoy the unique privilege of traveling abroad without the need for a passport. Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the King’s Secretary officially communicated to countries worldwide that the King should be permitted to travel freely due to his royal status. Similarly, the Emperor and Empress of Japan also benefit from this exception, allowing them to visit any nation without a passport.
Among the more than 800 million people across over 200 countries, only these three individuals are afforded such an extraordinary level of hospitality and respect during their travels.
