The New Swiss Passport Series

Switzerland's next-generation passport series was issued late October 2022 by the Federal Office of Police (fedpol). Since 1959, the distinctive red passport is considered as one of the most sophisticated and secure travel documents in the world. In close collaboration with a group of experts led by fedpol, and in cooperation with Thales and Orell Füssli, the Geneva-based creative studio RETINAA developed a bold new design that meets the high standards of Swiss security documents and aims to tell a story.

The Swiss passport is more than a formal administrative document. It's the expression of Helvetic identity and a brand ambassador for Switzerland abroad. It's the celebration of Swissness and a showcase of technological know-how. In addition to increasing security and being counterfeit-proof, the design needed to explore these aspects to create a document the holder can trust, identify with, and be proud of.

Swiss landscape is not only defined by its majestic mountains but also by the essential role water plays in shaping it. With its 1,500 lakes, numerous glaciers and countless rivers and streams, Switzerland is often referred to as the water tower of Europe. Making up 6% of Europe's total drinking water volume, reserves are also used to produce climate friendly energy, accounting for 56% of the country's overall electricity production. On a symbolic level, water represents life and motion, its fluidity evokes interaction and exchange.

The new passport depicts an imaginary journey along watercourses, from the Alpine peaks down to the valleys, through the 26 cantons and to the world beyond. Drawing on cartographic tradition yet modern in its use of 3D modelled landscapes, the design embodies the natural beauty of Switzerland. Under UV light, isolines reveal the topography of the landscapes enhanced with architectural landmarks, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and history.