Trump unveils limited-edition passport with his portrait for 250th anniversary of US independence
President Donald Trump posted an image of a limited-edition U.S. passport bearing his own portrait and signature on Friday, marking the first time a sitting president has appeared on the document.
The 'Patriot Passport'
On Friday, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social an image of a new limited-edition U.S. passport that features his portrait and signature. The White House shared the same image with the caption "PASAPORTE PATRIOTA". Trump's message read: "The new United States passport that says 'Welcome, but be good!'" The document is issued to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, which falls on July 4.
The new United States passport that says 'Welcome, but be good!'
Design and symbolism
The passport's first page shows a stern-looking Trump leaning on the Resolute desk, with his signature and the text of the Declaration of Independence in the background. The portrait appears to be based on a photograph by White House photographer Daniel Torok. On the second page, a painting depicts the signing of the Declaration in 1776, accompanied by the phrase "United States of America 250". The limited-edition booklet combines the President's persona with foundational American imagery.
A departure from precedent
No sitting U.S. president has ever before appeared on official passports. The announcement breaks with long-standing practice, and the State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment from AFP. The move follows another unprecedented step: Trump's signature is also set to appear on future U.S. banknotes, according to the reports.
A push to reshape national symbols
The passport design is the latest in a series of decisions that enshrine Trump's image on federal buildings and symbols, prompting accusations from critics of a personality cult. The 250th anniversary edition ties his personal brand directly to the nation's founding document, intensifying debate over the appropriate role of a sitting president's likeness in official state emblems.
