What Do Different Colours in Passports Signify?

Passport colors hold deep meanings tied to political ideologies, cultural identities, and historical narratives. Blue represents liberal, democratic values, red echoes communist or Christian ties, green symbolizes peace in Muslim countries, and black, though rare, reflects local identity. These colors reveal much about a nation's history and values.

Jan 27, 2025, 23:45 IST
What Do Different Colours in Passports Signify?
What Do Different Colours in Passports Signify?

The colours on passports all over the globe mean more than aesthetic value; rather, they can represent cultural, political, and even historical importance. Given that 199 countries use a common passport design and the name and crest of each country are placed in gold metallic ink, one can say that the colour will also hold significance beyond just recognition.

Passport Colors Explained

As revealed by the information of the Passport Index, color has been given a meaning for theme and ideology; some of which are:

  • Blue Passports: This colour often represents the "new world." A free market is often associated with the ocean and is considered the colour among the democratic nations having freedom in economies. Today, 83 nations have adopted the colour for passports, leading it to the most widely accepted colour worldwide.
  • Red Passports: Often associated with Communist countries or countries with Christian historical ties, red covers have a significant presence in global passport designs. A total of 67 countries opt for this colour, which can evoke feelings of power and authority.
  • Green Passports: It is predominantly used by most Muslim countries. Green, which is the colour, symbolizes peace and prosperity and is utilized in 42 nations, reflecting cultural choices that reflect on Islamic culture as well.
  • Black Passports: The rarest colour, black is often perceived to represent local culture or political identity. Only 7 countries issue black passports. Black passports can also be a practical option because they hide signs of wear and tear much better than lighter colours.

    Also Read | Budget 2025 Date and Time: Continuous 8th Time FM Nirmala Sitharaman will Present Union Budget; Where to Watch Live Speech

Cultural and Practical Implications

Passport colour can also be selected for practical purposes. For example, black passports age less and thus do not easily show signs of wear and tear which makes them a practical option for traveling individuals. Also, the meaning attached to each colour determines how citizens view their national identity while abroad.

The meaning of such colours goes beyond personal identity and can also speak to a nation's position on the world map. For instance, countries that have blue passports are likely viewed as more liberal or open because these colours are often associated with free trade and democratic principles. Red passports could be associated with historical narratives, such as communist or religious background.

Also Read | PM Modi's Flagship Schemes: Check State-Wise Development and Other Key Details

Knowing the colour of the passports gives one insight into the cultures and political orientations of nations in general. To international travellers, such colours are used to identify one as well as be a representation of a nation's identity and values. The various shades of colours found in the passport reflect the complexity of cultures and the distinct story each country brings. Whether it's blue for new beginnings or green for peace, each passport tells a story that goes beyond its material form.

Also Read |  Waqf Amendment Bill Approved: Check Key Amendments and Other Details

 

Kirti Sharma
Kirti Sharma

Content Writer

Kirti Sharma is a content writing professional with 3 years of experience in the EdTech Industry and Digital Content. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and worked with companies like ThoughtPartners Global, Infinite Group, and MIM-Essay. She writes for the General Knowledge and Current Affairs section of JagranJosh.com.

... Read More

Get here current GK and GK quiz questions in English and Hindi for India, World, Sports and Competitive exam preparation. Download the Jagran Josh Current Affairs App.

Trending

Latest Education News