Despite not being British citizens prior to 2002 and hence having no automatic right of abode in the United Kingdom, all BOTCs connected to Gibraltar have enjoyed the right to live and work in the EEA countries (including the United Kingdom itself) since 1973 because of the territory’s accession to the European Community as territories of the United Kingdom, and their Gibraltar passports have borne observations to demonstrate such treaty rights.

Until 31 January 2020, Gibraltarians who opted for the BOTC passport were considered "UK nationals for EU purposes", making them full citizens of the European Union with all consequential rights and entitlements.

On 31 December 2020, the governments of Spain and the UK announced a draft agreement on Gibraltar becoming part of the Schengen area.

The word "Gibraltar" is added beneath "United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland" and on the information page.

The only other difference is that Gibraltar-issued passports replace the mention of His Britannic Majesty's Secretary of State with The Governor of Gibraltar: The Governor of Gibraltar requests and requires in the Name of His Majesty all those whom it may concern to allow the bearer to pass freely without let or hindrance, and to afford the bearer such assistance and protection as may be necessary.