Setting New Standards for the British Passport
Thales was awarded the contract to supply a new generation of UK passports. The new blue non-EU electronic passport has been gradually introduced since 2020. The new British passport integrates for the first time a polycarbonate data page and includes new security features developed by Thales.
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Thales Leads Next-Generation British Passport Design
Thales was selected to design and deliver the next generation of British passports. First introduced in 2020, the new blue, non-EU electronic passport reflects a bold step forward in travel document security. It features a polycarbonate data page – a first for the UK – enabling advanced security features such as laser engraving and tamper-resistant layering. This design, combined with an embedded secure microprocessor and in-house developed OS, offers unmatched protection against fraud. In addition to setting a high benchmark for security, the passport also makes environmental history by becoming the world’s first to achieve CarbonNeutral® certification. From cutting-edge materials to eco-conscious production, this passport showcases innovation, trust and sustainability at every stage of its lifecycle.
On 29 May 2026, Thales completed the transition to the new Series D UK passport, a key milestone in its ongoing partnership with HM Passport Office (HMPO).The new passport combines a modern design with advanced document protection technologies. Its translucent polycarbonate data page features the holder's photograph and personal details laser-engraved into the material, enabling highly secure see-through features that strengthen resistance to counterfeiting.
