Many times I have seen online claims that the U.S. passport states, 'Wherever you go, the U.S. government and military will always support you.' This has led to some jokingly saying: If someone bullies you abroad, just call for help and we will take care of it. So what exactly is written on the U.S. passport? Is it really the widely circulated rumor about the back of the U.S. passport?
In fact, there is no such wording in the U.S. passport. This is a distortion circulated in Chinese online media to exaggerate how the U.S. protects its citizens, contrasting with the insufficient protection for its citizens in China. What is actually written is: The Secretary of State of the United States of America hereby requests all whom it may concern to permit the citizen/national of the United States named herein to pass without delay or hindrance and in case of need to give all lawful aid and protection. (Translated into Chinese: The Secretary of State of the United States requests all relevant persons to allow the citizen holding this U.S. passport to pass without any delay or hindrance, and to provide all reasonable assistance and protection when necessary.)
What are the differences between the U.S. and Chinese passports?
1. Different contents
The Chinese passport states: People's Republic of China Passport, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China requests all military and political authorities of countries to provide convenience and necessary assistance to the holder of this passport.
The U.S. passport states: The Secretary of State of the United States of America hereby requests all whom it may concern to permit the citizen/national of the United States named herein to pass without delay or hindrance and in case of need to give all lawful aid and protection. (Translated into Chinese: The Secretary of State of the United States requests all relevant persons to allow the citizen holding this U.S. passport to pass without any delay or hindrance, and to provide all reasonable assistance and protection when necessary.)
2. Holders of U.S. passports can travel freely to over 130 countries, while holders of Chinese passports can only enter a few countries and regions with visa exemptions or visa-on-arrival.
3. It is very difficult for holders of U.S. passports to visit North Korea, while it is relatively easy for holders of Chinese passports.
