India’s Passport Rises in Global Rankings

According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, the Indian passport has made significant progress, climbing from 85th to 77th place. This improvement comes despite a modest increase of just two additional visa-free destinations. Currently, Indian passport holders can travel to 59 countries without needing a prior visa.

Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Destinations

Indian citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries. Notable destinations include Malaysia, Indonesia, Maldives, and Thailand, which offer visa-free entry. Additionally, countries like Sri Lanka, Macau, and Myanmar provide visa-on-arrival facilities for Indian travelers.

Global Mobility Trends

Asian nations are leading in global mobility. Singapore tops the list with visa-free access to 193 destinations. Japan and South Korea follow closely with 190 destinations each. European countries also rank high, with Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Spain sharing third place with access to 189 destinations.

Other Notable Rankings

Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and Sweden hold the fourth position. New Zealand ties for fifth place alongside Greece and Switzerland. At the lower end of the spectrum is Afghanistan, with its citizens having visa-free access to only 25 destinations.

Shifts in UK and US Passport Strength

The UK and US have both dropped one spot since January. The UK ranks sixth with access to 186 destinations, while the US is tenth with 182 destinations. Both countries previously held the title of the world’s most powerful passport—UK in 2015 and US in 2014.

Saudi Arabia and China Make Gains

Saudi Arabia has added four new destinations since January, now offering visa-free access to 91 countries. China has seen a remarkable rise from 94th to 60th place since 2015, despite lacking visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area.

Expert Insights on Passport Power

Dr. Juerg Steffen of Henley & Partners highlights the growing demand for alternative residence and citizenship options among Americans and British nationals. He emphasizes that a passport reflects a country’s diplomatic influence and international relationships. In today’s uncertain geopolitical climate, strategic mobility and citizenship planning have become increasingly important.