The Most Powerful Passports Revealed
Japan continues to secure its position as the most powerful passport in the world, according to the latest Henley Passport Index. This index evaluates global access and illustrates the travel freedom enjoyed by passport holders, being regularly updated to reflect the changing landscape of international travel.
Understanding Your Passport’s Power
Having a passport with extensive visa-free access simplifies travel for citizens, eliminating the need for lengthy or costly visa applications when visiting other countries. Japan remains at the forefront with a remarkable visa-free or visa-on-arrival score of 191, marking the third consecutive year it has retained this prestigious position, often sharing it with Singapore, which now ranks second with a score of 190.
Global Rankings of Passport Power
Excluding temporary travel restrictions, Germany and South Korea claim third place, each with a score of 189. Furthermore, Luxembourg, Finland, Italy, and Spain are tied for fourth with a score of 188.
The remaining top ten countries are as follows:
- Fifth Place: Denmark and Austria (Score: 187)
- Sixth Place: Sweden, France, Portugal, The Netherlands, and Ireland (Score: 186)
- Seventh Place: United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Belgium, and New Zealand (Score: 185)
- Eighth Place: Greece, Malta, Czech Republic, and Australia (Score: 184)
- Ninth Place: Canada (Score: 183)
- Tenth Place: Hungary (Score: 181)
Insights from Henley & Partners
According to Henley & Partners, the latest rankings provide an opportunity to assess the significant changes that occurred during 2020. Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, the chairman, remarked, “Just a year ago all indications were that the rates of global mobility would continue to rise, that travel freedom would increase, and that holders of powerful passports would enjoy more access than ever before. The global lockdown negated these projections, and as restrictions begin to lift, the results from the latest index serve as a reminder of the true meaning of passport power in a world altered by the pandemic.”
Explore More
To discover the full ranking and evaluate your own passport’s standing, visit here.
This article was originally published on 8 July 2019 and last updated on 7 January 2021.
