The Henley Passport Index 2025 has been released, and it reveals significant changes in global passport strength. Singapore has emerged as the strongest passport in the world, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 193 out of 227 countries. Meanwhile, India ranks 80th, with visa-free access to 56 countries.
This detailed index, compiled by Henley & Partners, ranks 199 passports based on data provided by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The rankings reflect the ease of global travel granted by each passport and reveal interesting trends in global mobility.
Top Global Passport Rankings in 2025: Who Leads the Pack?
As of 2025, Singapore sits comfortably at the top, providing unparalleled access to almost all corners of the globe. With a passport ranked first globally, Singaporean citizens can travel to 193 countries without worrying about visa requirements. Following closely behind are South Korea and Japan, each with access to 190 countries.
Here’s a quick look at the top countries according to the Henley Passport Index 2025:
| Rank | Country | Visa-Free Access | Notable Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Singapore | 193 | Global trade hub, luxury travel destinations |
| 2 | South Korea | 190 | Popular in tech and culture |
| 2 | Japan | 190 | Rich history, technological innovation |
| 3 | Spain, Germany, Italy, France, Ireland, Finland, Denmark | 187 | Diverse cultures, EU countries, tourism attractions |
These countries offer maximum freedom of travel for their citizens, opening doors to the world with minimal bureaucracy.
Biggest Gainers in Passport Strength
Some countries have made tremendous strides in improving their passport strength over the past decade. One of the biggest success stories is the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has dramatically improved its passport strength, rising from 32nd place in 2015 to 8th place in 2025, with visa-free access to 184 countries.
| Country | 2015 Ranking | 2025 Ranking | Visa-Free Destinations (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | 32nd | 8th | 184 |
| China | 94th | 59th | 83 |
The UAE’s incredible growth in passport strength, by adding 72 new destinations, marks a historic rise, showcasing the diplomatic and economic progress the country has made.
Biggest Losers: Venezuela and the US
Not all countries have fared well in the Henley Passport Index 2025. The United States, once a close competitor for the second spot, has dropped to 9th place, with visa-free access to 183 destinations.
However, Venezuela has seen the largest decline in passport strength. From being in the 2nd spot in 2015, the country has plummeted to 44th place, now with access to just 126 countries. The political and economic turmoil in Venezuela has undoubtedly affected the passport’s global standing.
| Country | 2015 Ranking | 2025 Ranking | Visa-Free Destinations (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 2nd | 9th | 183 |
| Venezuela | 2nd | 44th | 126 |
The United States‘ fall from grace, along with Venezuela’s significant drop, emphasizes how international relations and global events can influence passport rankings.
India and Its Neighbors: Passport Access and Opportunities
India, with its 80th ranking, offers visa-free access to 56 countries. India is ranked alongside Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Tajikistan, showcasing that while Indian passport holders have some level of mobility, there is still much room for improvement in terms of global travel access.
Here’s how India compares with its neighboring countries in the Henley Passport Index 2025:
| Country | Rank | Visa-Free Access |
|---|---|---|
| India | 80th | 56 |
| Myanmar | 88th | 45 |
| Sri Lanka | 91st | 42 |
| Bangladesh | 93rd | 41 |
| Nepal | 94th | 38 |
| Pakistan | 96th | 38 |
While India’s passport allows access to 56 countries, its neighboring nations like Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh offer slightly fewer destinations for their citizens, with Pakistan having the lowest access in the region.
Bottom Three Passports: Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria
At the bottom of the list are Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, countries suffering from political instability and conflict. Afghanistan has the weakest passport in the world, with access to only 25 countries.
| Country | Rank | Visa-Free Access |
|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan | 99th | 25 |
| Iraq | 97th | 30 |
| Syria | 98th | 27 |
These nations face significant challenges, and their passport rankings reflect the severe mobility restrictions that their citizens experience globally.
The Henley Passport Index 2025 highlights the shifting global dynamics of travel access, with Singapore emerging as the global leader in passport strength. Countries like UAE and China have made notable gains, while others like the US and Venezuela have seen declines.
For Indian passport holders, there is still significant potential for improved mobility, with 56 countries offering visa-free access. The goal moving forward for India will be to work on enhancing its diplomatic relations and securing easier travel access to more destinations.
