For the majority of us, the passport is the indispensable tool for crossing borders outside the European Union. A real guarantee of entry into many countries, this travel document certifies in the eyes of the world our belonging to a State, but also our ease (or not) to move in different territories. But, did you know that a few privileged few are exempt from this travel document? So to speak, there are three in the world. And the King of Great Britain, Charles III, currently visiting in France, is among the lucky ones.
Since his accession to the throne on September 8, 2022, the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II has obtained several privileges, including that of being able to circulate without papers, just like his mother before him. He does not need a passport, because in England this document is issued in the name of the reigning sovereign. The official change was made in July. Since then, British passports have been issued in the name of Charles III. The documents no longer use the term "Her Majesty", which referred to Elizabeth II, but "His Majesty", referring directly to the 74-year-old monarch.
See alsoChamps-Élysées, Versailles, Bordeaux: the program of the visit of Charles III and Camilla in France
An exception within the British royal family
If Charles III is now exempt from passport, this is not the case for other members of the royal family. His wife, Queen Camilla, must own one to travel, as must his sons William and Harry. In addition, the new sovereign, also proclaimed King of Australia, Canada and New Zealand, has another advantage: he is the only Briton to be exempt from driving license. All these rights are also accompanied by obligations, such as that relating to political neutrality. He may not vote or participate in any election.
In addition to Charles III, Emperor Naruhito, the 126th ruler of the Imperial House of Japan, and his wife, Empress Masako, can also cross borders without a passport. An advantage also possessed by the previous sovereigns, Emperor Akihito and his wife, Empress Michiko, Naruhito's parents. The latter have never possessed the precious sesame. What about the other members of the imperial family? Crown Prince Fumihito of Akishino and his wife, Princess Kiko, must carry diplomatic passports to travel abroad.