What are some examples of an ‘official observation’ in a passport?

6 comments

1. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/observations-in-passports/observations-in-passports-accessible

2. Various immigration statuses.

   Various notes for being a member of diplomatic/government service or related to someone who is.

   Other names you might go by (e.g. you changed your name, or you have ID from a country with reverse naming conventions, typically East Asian countries)

   Any titles you have like Sir/Lord/Earl/etc.

   That your name includes a word that would normally be a title (e.g. Screaming Lord Sutch is not actually a Lord and that’s his name).

   And one that’s not listed but is in my dad’s passport: Immutable identifying marks like a big scar down his leg.

3. I have one. But I can’t tell you what it is. Super secret.

   They’re notes for immigration staff, such as unusual nationality/immigration rules that apply, different names on other documents, if it’s a replacement passport, or for if you need some special treatment. Basically so immigration staff won’t get suspicious if there’s something odd about your documents or immigration status, or apply certain rules if they apply. [See here for examples](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/observations-in-passports/observations-in-passports-accessible#about-observations-in-passports)

4. Also, if your full legal name is longer than the name section of the passport.

   Some cultures love a massive name – I’ve encountered it with Nigerian acquaintances, but they’re not the only folks whose names can get massive.

5. Official Observations:

   – Smells of egg, always

   – Has an uncanny resemblance to Benny Hill

   – Walks as though he’s had an accident in his trousers (might explain smell of egg)

   …are a few I’ve seen, there’s probably loads more

6. Throws chairs and other bar furniture during major football tournaments*