Unveiling the world's rarest passport
In the domain of passports, where the freedom to travel is often assessed by visa-free privileges, one passport distinguishes itself not through broad acceptance but sheer exclusivity. The crimson passport of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta is possessed by only 500 individuals worldwide, earning it the distinction of being the rarest passport globally. Let us learn what makes this passport so rare.
Malta, a distinctive entity
The Sovereign Military Order of Malta, or the Knights of Malta, operates globally with a multi-million-dollar humanitarian aid budget. Despite lacking physical territory, it functions as a sovereign nation, holding United Nations observer status. As per CNN, the Order issues unique documents like passports, car license plates, stamps, and currency. Remarkably, it manages refugee camps and disaster relief in about 120 countries worldwide.
Diplomats use
Dating back to the 1300s, this practice originated as Order diplomats traveled abroad with documents affirming their ambassadorial status. Presently, the distinctive crimson passport is exclusively reserved for members of the Sovereign Council and leaders of diplomatic missions, and their families. The passport displays gold lettering in French, "Ordre Souverain Militaire de Malte," along with the organization's crest, possibly symbolizing the blood of Christ.
Member's mandates
Daniel de Petri Testaferrata, the President of the Order based in Malta, states that diplomatic passports are issued for the duration of government members' mandates. Grand Masters, serving two terms and retiring at 85, receive passports valid for a decade. Other diplomatic passports, used for official missions, have a four-year validity, featuring 44 pages, a watermark of the Maltese cross but no additional embellishments.
Humanitarian role
De Petri Testaferrata highlights that the diplomatic passport is acknowledged by two-thirds of Schengen members. Despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties, the Order maintains close collaborations with nations like France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. CNN highlights the Order's active humanitarian role, swiftly delivering medical aid to conflict or disaster victims through operating hospitals, ambulance corps, medical centers etc.
Golden passport
The rarity of Malta passports can be attributed to the country's selective citizenship policies, particularly its renowned Individual Investor Programme (IIP). Malta's IIP is a golden passport initiative which requires substantial financial investments in the form of real estate, government bonds and schemes. This exclusive program allows individuals to obtain Maltese citizenship without fulfilling the usual residency requirements.
