Belgian passports are soon set to feature some of the comic strip characters that have built the country's global reputation for mastery in the art. What could be more fitting for Tintin, the world's most famous comic book reporter, adventurer and traveler?
Belgium is proud of its comic book culture -- and rightly so. Now, the country will be showing off its heritage each time its citizens take the plane or the Eurostar. From February 7, you can flip to page six of a new Belgian passport to see Tintin, Marlinspike Hall and Captain Haddock. You might also recognize the rocket from Tintin's "Destination Moon" edition. The comic book reporter will be joined by The Smurfs and Lucky Luke, also featuring in the passport.
This new official document is not only intended to highlight famous Belgian cartoon strip characters. It is also about strengthening the security of the passport with new techniques. However, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not plan to increase the cost of the Belgian passport, which will remain priced at 65 euros for adults and 35 euros for minors.
Belgian passport holders can travel to 149 countries, including 110 without a visa.
