US AFFAIRS

Freedom 250: Trump's face to feature on US passports

Thursday, 30 Apr, 2026
The new passport design to mark America's 250th anniversary of independence. (Photo courtesy: The White House)

The United States is set to produce a limited number of commemorative passports bearing President Donald Trump's portrait as part of plans to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence.

The State Department said the passports will be released as part of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in July. Renderings shared by the department show Trump’s portrait on an inside page, opposite an image depicting the signing of the Declaration in 1776.

“These passports will feature customised artwork and enhanced imagery while maintaining the same security features that make the US passport among the most secure documents in the world,” State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said.

The move is part of a broader set of initiatives tied to the anniversary. The Department of the Treasury has announced that new US paper currency will carry Trump’s signature—marking the first time a sitting president’s signature will appear on American money. The US Mint is also planning a commemorative gold coin bearing his image.

US to deny visas to those fearing persecution at home

The United States will deny visas to applicants who say they fear persecution in their home countries, as President Donald Trump's administration moves to further restrict potential asylum seekers from entering the country, CNN reported.

Under a new rule outlined in a diplomatic cable sent to all embassies and consulates this week, visa applicants must affirm that they do not fear harm in their home country. The directive marks a significant shift in US immigration policy, which has already seen sweeping changes aimed at tightening entry rules.

The latest rule applies to non-immigrant visa applicants, including tourists, students, and temporary workers. In January, the US also suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries.