As of 2024, the world’s strongest passports are ranked based on their ability to grant holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to various destinations. The Henley Passport Index is a primary source for these rankings, providing insights into global mobility by analyzing data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA)
1. France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Spain – 194 destinations
An unprecedented six countries share the top spot in 2024. France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain offer their citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 194 destinations worldwide. Japan held the top position exclusively for five years before being joined by these other countries this year. This shared ranking is a testament to the growing strength of European and Asian passports, providing extensive global mobility
2. Finland, South Korea, Sweden – 193 destinations
The second position is occupied by Finland, South Korea, and Sweden, with access to 193 destinations without needing a visa. These countries have consistently ranked high in passport power, reflecting their strong diplomatic relationships and favorable travel agreements across many regions
3. Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands – 192 destinations
Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and the Netherlands come in third, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 192 countries. These European nations are known for their open travel policies and are part of the Schengen Area, which facilitates easy movement within Europe and contributes to their high rankings
4. Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, United Kingdom – 191 destinations
In the fourth spot, Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, and the United Kingdom offer access to 191 destinations. The UK notably regained its position among the top passports after a dip in ranking post-Brexit, reflecting improved travel agreements and diplomatic efforts to enhance mobility for its citizens
5. Greece, Malta, Switzerland – 190 destinations
Greece, Malta, and Switzerland share the fifth spot, with their passports allowing visa-free access to 190 destinations. As part of the European Union or closely associated with it, these countries benefit from the bloc’s agreements with other nations, facilitating easier travel for their citizens
6. Australia, Czechia, New Zealand, Poland – 189 destinations
In sixth place, Australia, Czechia, New Zealand, and Poland provide access to 189 destinations. Australia’s and New Zealand’s high rankings reflect their strong ties with both Western countries and Asian economies. Meanwhile, Czechia and Poland, as EU members, enjoy similar benefits to other top-ranked European countries
7. Canada, Hungary, United States – 188 destinations
Canada, Hungary, and the United States are tied for the seventh spot, with their passports granting access to 188 countries without requiring a visa. The United States, which once dominated this list, has seen a more stable ranking in recent years due to changes in global travel agreements. However, it remains a powerful passport with access to diverse destinations
8. Estonia, Lithuania – 187 destinations
Estonia and Lithuania rank eighth, with access to 187 destinations. As Baltic nations in the EU, they benefit from the European Union’s collective agreements, which significantly boost the travel freedom of their citizens
9. Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia – 186 destinations
In ninth place, Latvia, Slovakia, and Slovenia provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 186 destinations. These countries have benefited from increased mobility within Europe and beyond, further strengthening their global travel standing
10. Iceland – 185 destinations
Rounding out the top 10 is Iceland, with access to 185 destinations. Its position reflects its strong international relationships, particularly within the Schengen Area, which allows Icelanders significant travel freedom across Europe
Overview
The 2024 rankings highlight the dominance of European and Asian countries in terms of passport power, with several nations sharing top positions due to their extensive access to global destinations. The top ranks are a reflection of diplomatic strength and strategic travel agreements that allow citizens of these countries greater ease of movement. Additionally, countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have stabilized their positions after recent changes, while smaller nations like those in the Baltics and the Mediterranean continue to leverage their EU memberships for high mobility
Sources:
Henley & Partners
World Economic Forum
The Independent
