European Commission

The European Union laissez-passer is a secure travel document issued by the EU for representatives and staff members whose work involves international travel, and, under certain conditions, their family members. Recognised as a valid travel document by EU Member States, it may also be accepted by third countries under relevant agreements. The document follows security standards and technical specifications used for EU national travel documents. It is machine-readable and includes a contactless chip containing the holder’s photograph and two fingerprints to help protect against forgery and falsification.

The European Commission operates a central service on behalf of EU issuing institutions to enrol applicants, personalise documents and deliver them. The laissez-passer may include information about the holder’s function, such as their role in a delegation or the service-related reason for travel. Authorities can check its authenticity through the PRADO public register, while EU Member States can consult the FADO system to help identify fraudulent documents.