The Global Passport Power Rankings 2024

“Unprecedented Six Nations Share Top Spot with Access to 194 Destinations”

In 2024, a groundbreaking moment unfolds in global passport supremacy. Six nations now share the top ranking, boasting the most powerful travel documents. France, Germany, Italy, Singapore, and Spain have joined the ranks of Japan. Together, they unlock access to 194 destinations out of a total of 227, all without requiring visas.

In the second tier, South Korea partners with Finland and Sweden, allowing their passport holders visa-free exploration of 193 destinations. Meanwhile, Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and the Netherlands share third place, each granting access to 192 destinations.

The United Kingdom has climbed two ranks this year. It now shares the fourth position with Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, and Portugal. Each of these countries offers access to 191 nations, showcasing their global reach.

The top five is rounded out by Greece, Malta, and Switzerland, which extend their passport power to 190 destinations. This invites travelers to explore without the hassle of visas.

Across the Atlantic, the United States remains in seventh place, offering visa-free entry to 188 destinations. It’s been a decade since the UK and the US dominated this index in 2014. This reflects the evolving dynamics of global mobility.

At the other end of the spectrum, Afghanistan holds the least powerful passport, allowing access to just 28 destinations without a visa. Following it are Syria, Iraq, Pakistan, and Yemen, highlighting the disparities in passport strength.

Since the index’s inception, the gap between the top and bottom has widened. Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, who created the passport index, notes that the average number of visa-free destinations has nearly doubled. It has risen from 58 in 2006 to an impressive 111 in 2024.

As the new year unfolds, the leading nations revel in their ability to access 166 more destinations visa-free than Afghanistan. This change highlights the evolving landscape of global travel. The Henley Passport Index, crafted with data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), serves as a guide for travelers in this expanding era.

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