As an important document for international travel, the passport plays an extensive and important role. Here are the main functions of a passport:
1. Identity authentication and nationality proof
- Identity authentication: Passport is an important document to prove personal identity, which contains the holder's name, gender, date of birth, nationality, photo and other basic information, is an important basis for identifying personal identity.
- Nationality certificate: The nationality information on the passport clearly indicates the country of the holder, which is the official proof of confirming their nationality.
2. Permission to enter or leave the country
- Exit Permit: With a valid passport, citizens can legally leave their own country and travel to other countries or regions.
- Entry permit: Upon arrival at the destination, the passport is an important document to prove the identity and nationality of the individual to the local customs or immigration office, thus obtaining the entry permit.
3. Visa application and residence permit
- Visa application: Travel to certain countries or regions requires a visa application in advance. Visa applications must be based on a valid passport.
- Residence permit: In some countries, holding a passport and corresponding residence permit can prove an individual's legal right of residence in that country.
4. travel security and convenience
- Travel security: Passport is an important document for travelers to seek help from local embassies and consulates when they encounter emergencies abroad, such as lost luggage and legal problems.
- Travel convenience: With a valid passport, travelers can easily handle travel-related procedures such as air tickets and hotel reservations, and enjoy certain travel benefits and convenience.
5. International laws and Rights protection
- International legal protection: Under international law, passport holders have the right to diplomatic and consular protection abroad.
- Protection of personal rights and interests: The personal information and endorsement information on the passport can protect the legitimate rights and interests of citizens in working, studying and living abroad.
6. Other functions
- Proof of Assets: In some cases, a passport can be used as part of a personal proof of assets or property.
- Identity proof: In China, the passport can also be used as one of the valid identity documents for some businesses that require identity proof.
To sum up, passports play an important role in international travel, identity authentication, nationality proof, visa application, residence permit, travel security and facilitation, as well as international laws and rights protection. Therefore, citizens should take good care of their passports to avoid loss or theft.