In a significant shift in global mobility, the 2025 Henley Passport Index has designated Singapore as the holder of the world's most powerful passport. Singaporeans can now travel to 195 out of 227 global destinations without the need for a visa, solidifying its position at the top of the list. The report, which ranks 199 passports worldwide, draws its data from the International Air Transport Association, providing a comprehensive view of global travel freedom.
The gap between the strongest and weakest passports is now the largest in the index's 19-year history. Afghanistan claims the weakest passport, with citizens enjoying visa-free access to only 26 destinations. This stark contrast highlights the disparity in global travel privileges, with Singaporeans enjoying the ability to visit 169 more places than Afghans without a visa.
The United Arab Emirates has emerged as one of the "biggest climbers" on the list, now offering its citizens visa-free entry to 72 more destinations than a decade ago. Meanwhile, the United States has experienced a decline in its ranking. It is one of 22 countries whose passport strength has diminished over the past ten years. Although currently ranked second, U.S. passport holders can visit 186 destinations without a visa, a notable fall from its previous standing.
"Surprisingly, the US is the second-biggest faller between 2015 and 2025 after Venezuela, plummeting seven places from 2nd to its current 9th position,"
- Henley & Partners
Japan shares the second spot with visa-free access to 193 locations. Four European countries that tied for first place last year, along with Finland and South Korea, now share third place. Each enables passport holders to visit 192 destinations without visa requirements.
China has shown significant progress in enhancing its global mobility, rising to 60th place in the ranking. The Henley Openness Index indicates that China now grants visa-free access to citizens from 58 destinations, with half of these additions made in the past year.