Singapore has reclaimed its position as the holder of the world’s most powerful passport, surpassing European countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
According to the Henley Passport Index, Singaporean citizens can now enjoy visa-free access to 195 destinations globally, placing the city-state at the top of the rankings.
The Henley Passport Index, which uses data from the International Air Transport Association, evaluates 199 passports and their access to 227 destinations.
The latest update sees Singapore leapfrogging previous leaders, with the European quartet and Japan now sharing second place.
In third place are Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden, whose passport holders have visa-free access to 191 destinations.
This is the first time seven nations have occupied this spot together.
Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley & Partners, emphasized the significance of passport strength in today’s globalized world.
“The ability to travel visa-free is more than convenience; it’s a powerful economic tool driving growth, fostering international cooperation, and attracting foreign investment.”
While Singapore rises, the United States continues its decline, now ranking eighth, a drop from its former position at the top alongside the UK a decade ago. The UK, meanwhile, has slipped to fourth place.
At the bottom of the list, Afghanistan remains the weakest passport, offering visa-free entry to just 26 destinations.
