Discover Which Passport Tops the List as the Most Powerful in the World
The latest global passport rankings reveal significant shifts in passport power dynamics. According to the 2025 rankings by Henley and Partners, the Australian passport has weakened while the US passport has fallen out of the top 10 for the first time in years.
Key Insights from the Rankings
Released this week, the rankings highlight crucial changes in global mobility. Christian H. Kaelin, creator of the Henley Passport Index, emphasized that these developments indicate a fundamental shift in soft power and global mobility.
Notable Changes in Passport Strength
- Singapore leads the rankings, allowing visa-free access to 193 countries.
- South Korea follows with access to 190 nations, while Japan offers entry to 189 countries.
- Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, and Switzerland are tied for fourth place.
- The US passport has plummeted to 12th place, marking its exit from the top 10.
- Australia has dropped from equal sixth to equal seventh, now sharing this position with Czech Republic, Malta, and Poland, allowing visa-free entry to 185 countries.
Australian and US Passport Comparisons
Australians lost visa-free access to four destinations in the past year. Currently, New Zealand citizens can enter 186 countries visa-free, a slight edge over Australians.
On the other hand, the decline in the US passport’s strength correlates with ongoing geopolitical tensions, including trade conflicts. As a result, various countries, including Brazil, China, and Somalia, have restricted access for American citizens.
Global Mobility Trends
The findings from Henley and Partners indicate that countries fostering cooperation and openness are thriving. Meanwhile, nations relying on historical privilege are lagging in global mobility rankings.
The rankings reflect the evolving landscape of international relations, suggesting that diplomatic strategies play a crucial role in visa arrangements and passport strength.
