21/11/2025
While the concept of travel documents has ancient roots, England under King Henry V is credited with issuing what is considered the first modern passport in 1414. These documents were officially issued by the English government starting in 1540, and the modern system was developed later, especially after World War I.
1414: King Henry V of England passed an Act of Parliament that required his subjects to carry a letter of safe conduct to prove their identity while abroad.
1540: The English Privy Council began officially issuing "passports" as a role of government.
Modernisation: The modern passport system was developed over centuries, with the authority to grant passports being transferred to the Secretary of State in Britain by 1794. After World War I, strict passport and visa requirements were re-implemented globally, leading to the standardised system used today.