The United States State Department has announced plans to release a limited-edition series of passports that will include an image of President Donald Trump, a move that breaks with long-standing diplomatic and design traditions.
Officials said the special passports are being introduced to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, marking a major national milestone. The design shared by the department shows a stern portrait of Trump placed over the historic 1776 Declaration, with his signature highlighted in gold. Another version features imagery of the country’s Founding Fathers.
According to the State Department, the commemorative passports will be available in limited quantities and can only be obtained through in-person appointments in Washington, D.C., while supplies last. They will be issued at no extra cost to applicants.
A department spokesperson described the release as part of broader efforts to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial. However, officials did not clarify whether applicants could opt out of receiving the Trump-themed version.
The move has sparked criticism from some Democratic lawmakers, who accused the administration of using public institutions for personal promotion and questioned the allocation of resources toward the project.
Critics noted that passports in most countries typically feature national symbols, historical figures, or cultural landmarks rather than living political leaders. Even nations known for strong personality cults in leadership, such as North Korea, do not include current leaders in their travel documents.
The United States currently issues passports featuring national achievements and landmarks, including references to the Moon landing and iconic monuments like the Statue of Liberty.
The announcement comes amid other recent changes under the Trump administration that have placed the president’s name and image more prominently on federal institutions and initiatives, including proposed changes to currency design.
Only about half of Americans currently hold passports, a figure lower than in many other developed nations, with travel participation varying across regions and demographics.
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