The passport stands as one of the most crucial documents for international travel. Its strength directly determines how freely citizens can explore the world. Each year, the Henley Passport Index releases a detailed report analyzing global passport power and mobility trends. The 2026 edition has just been published, revealing significant diplomatic shifts and evolving travel patterns.
Global Passport Power Rankings for 2026
Here is a comprehensive look at the world's most powerful passports according to the latest data.
1) Singapore
Visa-free access: 192 countries
Singapore achieves a remarkable feat by retaining its position as the world's most powerful passport. This continued dominance reflects the city-state's extensive network of multilateral agreements and its active global economic and diplomatic engagement.
2) Japan and South Korea
Visa-free access: 188 countries
Japan and South Korea share the second spot, tying with identical visa-free access numbers. These two Asian nations offer their citizens extensive travel freedom across Europe, the Americas, and much of Asia.
3) Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
Visa-free access: 186 countries
Passport holders from Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland can visit 186 countries without requiring a visa. These European nations tie for third place, demonstrating the advantages of shared European travel policies, particularly those connected to the Schengen Area.
4) Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway
Visa-free access: 185 countries
Citizens holding passports from Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, and Norway enjoy visa-free access to 185 nations. These Schengen countries maintain high mobility scores in the global ranking.
5) Hungary, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates
Visa-free access: 184 countries
Passport holders from Hungary, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, and the United Arab Emirates can travel to 184 countries without a visa. The inclusion of the UAE in this group highlights the country's growing popularity and influence on the global stage.
6) Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Malta, New Zealand, Poland
Visa-free access: 183 countries
Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Malta, New Zealand, and Poland jointly secure the sixth position on this prestigious list. While some of these nations might be small in size, they rank among the world's top travel destinations.
7) Australia, Latvia, Liechtenstein, United Kingdom
Visa-free access: 182 countries
Australia, Latvia, Liechtenstein, and the United Kingdom share the seventh place. The UK's position demonstrates continued travel freedom for its citizens following the Brexit transition.
8) Canada, Iceland, Lithuania
Visa-free access: 181 countries
Passport holders from Canada, Iceland, and Lithuania can visit 181 nations without a visa. Canada maintains its status as an international travel powerhouse, reflecting the country's strong global connections.
9) Malaysia
Visa-free access: 180 countries
Malaysian citizens enjoy visa-free access to 180 countries. The passport strength of this Asian nation underscores the growing travel capabilities of Southeast Asian countries.
10) United States
Visa-free access: 179 countries
The US passport makes a notable comeback after a brief decline. American passport holders can now visit 179 nations without obtaining a visa in advance.
India's Passport Performance in 2026
India's passport secures the 80th position on the 2026 Henley Passport Index. Indian citizens can access 55 countries without requiring a prior visa. This access includes visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival facilities, and electronic travel authorizations.
This ranking represents a significant improvement compared to 2025, when India held the 85th position. The upward movement indicates positive developments in India's international travel agreements and diplomatic relations.
The Henley Passport Index provides valuable insights into global mobility patterns. It shows how diplomatic relationships and international agreements shape travel freedom for citizens worldwide. The 2026 report highlights both consistent leaders and emerging players in the global passport power landscape.
