What is a passport?

A passport is an essential vital record and travel document issued by a country's government to its citizens intended to confirm the identity and nationality of the individual for the intended purpose of international travel. These small booklets typically contain the bearer's full name, birthplace, issue date, expiration date, passport number, photo, and signature. Various passports exist depending on the bearer's status in their home country.

Why do you need a passport?

Passports are essential travel companions for individuals looking to travel abroad. Not only do these vital records prove your identity, but they offer protection in a foreign land. Typically, people traveling outside the country must show their passport several times at the airport and when going through customs. Some international countries may require a visa for foreign travelers to visit.

Is it illegal to create a fake birth certificate?

Yes. Creating a fake birth certificate is against the law, and individuals submitting a fraudulent birth certificate, whether in the United States or outside the country, will face legal repercussions if caught.

How Can I Apply for a Passport?

Each country has its own passport application process. You can visit your country's government website for instructions on obtaining a passport or go to apply online with State Vital Records.

What is the Henley Passport Index?

The Henley Passport Index established the original, authoritative index for ranking the world’s passports including 199 different passports and 227 different travel destinations. The index determines the number of countries its holders can access without a visa based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA).

The 5 most powerful passports in the world

• 5. Ireland, Portugal

  

  Destinations 187

  Ireland joins Portugal in sixth place, allowing their citizens visa-free entrance to 187 territories.

• 4. Austria, Denmark, France, Netherlands, Sweden

  

  Destinations 188

  Fifth in the ranking are Austria, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Passport holders from these countries are exempt from visa requirements for 188 destinations.

• 3. Finland, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain

  

  Destinations 189

  Finland, Italy, Luxembourg, and Spain—grab the third spot on our list, with these European countries granting visa-free entrance to 189 different countries.

• 2. Germany, South Korea

  

  Destinations 190

  The second place on the passport index is reserved for Germany and South Korea, with citizens in both countries able to travel to 190 destinations without getting a visa in advance.

• 1. Japan, Singapore

  

  Destinations 192

  According to the HPI, Japan and Singapore are the highest-ranked passports, enabling visa-free entrance to 192 countries and territories.

Contact State Vital Records and Get Your Passport!

If you are looking to travel internationally, you can easily apply for your passport online at State Vital Records. Our quick, efficient process makes replacing your passport easy and affordable. Just fill out an online application, and as soon as it's received, we'll get to work expediting the entire ordering process. Not only that, we provide tracking so you can stay up-to-date on your order's whereabouts to ensure your passport securely gets delivered and in the right hands.

Order online to get your passport today or to hear more about the other types of vital records we provide, including death certificates and birth certificates. Contact us today!