Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

laissez-passer

noun

/ˌleɪ.seɪ ˈpɑː.sər/

Definition

A laissez-passer is a document that allows a person to pass through a border or checkpoint without a visa.

Examples

The humanitarian worker traveled with a laissez-passer to aid refugees across the border.
During World War I, many people used laissez-passers to move freely between countries.
A laissez-passer can be issued by certain international organizations for their members.

Meaning

It literally means ‘to let pass’ in French, and is often used in international contexts for travelers who may not have the usual travel documentation.