Carrying a powerful passport can open many doors, whether traveling for a job or pleasure. This year, for the first time ever, six different nations’ travel documents are tied for the highly coveted top spot. The Henley Passport Index published a list of the countries whose passport holders have the most visa-free travel to other countries. The list, created by consultancy firm Henley & Partners and based on exclusive and official data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), is updated quarterly. It reflects the most recent changes in immigration laws and international ties.
The Powerful Six
According to the Henley Passport Index 2024, the most powerful passports in the world are those of Singapore, Japan, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. These six countries have earned the title of the most powerful passports in 2024 — with all of them granting visa-free travel to 194 out of 227 destinations.
Several factors contribute to the power of these passports, including the economic strength, political stability, and diplomatic influence of the countries that issue them. These countries have developed strong links and collaboration with other countries, leading to preferential visa procedures and mutual passport recognition. Furthermore, these countries have good levels of security and health, making them appealing and trustworthy partners for other countries.
The second most powerful passports in the world for 2024 belong to South Korea, Sweden, and Finland. These three countries have climbed one spot from last year and offer their citizens visa-free access to 193 destinations, only one less than the top-ranked countries. Some advantages of having a passport from these countries include traveling to most of Europe, North America, and Asia without a visa and enjoying high living standards, education, and health care.
Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and the Netherlands share the third spot. These four countries have also moved up one spot from last year, granting their citizens visa-free access to 192 destinations. With 188 options, the United States ranks seventh in the world.
The World’s Most Powerful Passports For 2024
- France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Spain (194 places)
- Finland, South Korea, Sweden (193 places)
- Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands (192 places)
- Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, United Kingdom (191 places)
- Greece, Malta, Switzerland (190 places)
- Australia, Czechia, New Zealand, Poland (189 places)
- Canada, Hungary, United States (188 places)
- Estonia, Lithuania (187 places)
- Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia (186 places)
- Iceland (185 places)