- Singapore has regained its position as the holder of the world's most powerful passport
- The United States has experienced a continued decline in passport strength
- The Henley Passport Index reveals significant shifts in passport rankings
Singapore has reclaimed its title as the holder of the world’s most powerful passport, according to the latest rankings from the London-based immigration consultancy firm, Henley & Partners.
The recent index places Singapore at the top, surpassing previous leaders France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Singaporean passport holders now enjoy visa-free access to a record 195 destinations globally.
Previously shared by four European countries, namely France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, the top spot now includes Japan, marking a shift in the rankings over the past year.
Additionally, seven countries, including Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden, have secured the third position, allowing their passport holders visa-free entry to 191 destinations worldwide.
In contrast, the United States, once a dominant force in global passport rankings, has slipped to the eighth position, continuing a downward trend over the past decade on the Henley Passport Index.
Conversely, the United Kingdom maintains a strong presence, securing the fourth position on the index.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Afghanistan holds the distinction of having the world’s weakest passport, offering visa-free access to only 26 destinations.
Henley & Partners CEO Juerg Steffen highlighted the economic significance of visa-free travel, emphasizing its role in stimulating growth, fostering international cooperation, and attracting foreign investment.
