Passport inequality is more than a simple logistical inconvenience; it is a fundamental injustice that undermines the principles of equality and fairness upon which academia should be built. Scholars from the Global South often face daunting challenges when obtaining visas for research and conference travel. Lengthy and arduous visa application processes, exorbitant fees, and arbitrary rejection decisions are just a few hurdles they must navigate simply to participate in academic conferences or conduct research abroad. These barriers not only impede individual academic endeavors but also perpetuate systemic inequalities within the global academic community. Drawing from our own personal experiences, we discuss mobility barriers, exposing their structural, institutional, and personal dimensions. We call for a reflexive approach in IR to counteract apathy and the illusory sense of equality in academic practices and offer policy solutions to promote a more inclusive and equitable academic community.