A passport is a powerful tool that allows individuals to travel internationally and visit other countries. It serves as a form of identification and proof of citizenship, and can often make the process of entering or exiting a country smoother and more efficient.
But not all passports are created equal – some are much more powerful and coveted than others. According to the Henley Passport Index, which ranks passports based on the number of countries their holders can visit visa-free, the following are currently the strongest passports in the world:
- Japan – Japanese passport holders can visit 191 countries visa-free, making it the strongest passport in the world.
- Singapore – Singaporean passport holders can visit 190 countries visa-free, making it the second strongest passport in the world.
- South Korea – South Korean passport holders can visit 189 countries visa-free, making it the third strongest passport in the world.
- Germany – German passport holders can visit 188 countries visa-free, making it the fourth strongest passport in the world.
- Italy – Italian passport holders can visit 187 countries visa-free, making it the fifth strongest passport in the world.
- Finland, France, Spain, Switzerland and Portugal – Passport holders from these countries can visit 186 countries visa-free, making them tied for the sixth strongest passport in the world.
- Denmark, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands – Passport holders from these countries can visit 185 countries visa-free, making them tied for the seventh strongest passport in the world.
- Austria, Belgium, Norway, and the United Kingdom – Passport holders from these countries can visit 184 countries visa-free, making them tied for the eighth strongest passport in the world.
- Australia, Canada, Greece, Ireland, and the United States – Passport holders from these countries can visit 183 countries visa-free, making them tied for the ninth strongest passport in the world.
It’s worth noting that these rankings can change frequently, as countries often make changes to their visa policies. Additionally, the strength of a passport doesn’t just depend on the number of countries it allows access to – other factors, such as the ease of obtaining a visa and the overall reputation of the country, can also play a role.
Regardless, having a strong passport can be a major advantage for travellers, allowing them to visit a greater number of countries without the need for a visa. So, if you’re planning on traveling internationally, it may be worth considering which passport will give you the most flexibility and freedom to explore the world.