I believe, and if anyone knows better they can correct me, that VIPs have a separate departure/arrivals areas that they use rather than mingling with the rest of us. VIPs would include royalty, as well as some politicians, Heads of States, etc.
Assuming this to be the case, Meghan might well have had no need to handle her passport even at the airport, when she was involved in royal visits, as aids would probably carry all paperwork necessary. When she travelled abroad in a personal capacity, surely she would have had her passport in her possession, although she would still not need to go through the regular departures areas.
What is our role as older people?
Relentlessly negative pessimism from OH


as if any of the behaviour within the royal family could be seen as normal.