Context:

Recently, the Henley Passport Index 2026 was released by the London-based firm Henley & Partners. This index provides a comparative assessment of the global mobility offered by different countries’ passports. It presents a list of the world’s most powerful passports and is regarded as an important indicator of global mobility and the diplomatic strength of nations.

Key Highlights of the 2026 Ranking:

• • • Singapore ranks first as the world’s most powerful passport, offering visa-free access to 192 destinations. Japan and South Korea are jointly placed second, with their passport holders able to travel to 188 destinations without a prior visa.
    • The third position is jointly held by Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland, each providing access to 186 destinations. Meanwhile, ten European countries, Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Norway are jointly ranked fourth, each allowing access to 185 destinations.
    • At the fifth position, Hungary, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, and the UAE offer access to 184 visa-free destinations. This reflects both European integration and the UAE’s proactive visa diplomacy.
    • At the bottom of the list, Afghanistan ranks 101st, with Afghan passport holders able to enter only 24 countries without a prior visa. Syria ranks 100th and Iraq 99th. Pakistan, with access to 31 destinations, stands at 98th, while Bangladesh, with access to 37 destinations, ranks 95th.

India’s Position:

In the 2026 index, India has shown an improvement in its ranking and currently stands at 80th place. Indian passport holders can travel to 55 countries with visa-free or visa-on-arrival facilities. Visa-free policies adopted by countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia for Indian tourists have strengthened India’s position. In 2025, India was ranked 85th among the world’s strongest passports.

Significance of the Ranking:

The Henley Passport Index reflects not only travel convenience but also several broader dimensions:

• • • Economic Freedom: Countries with stronger passports tend to have better foreign investment inflows and stronger trade relations.
    • Diplomatic Relations: The index directly reflects the level of trust and cordial relations between countries.
    • Global Access: A powerful passport provides individuals with greater international opportunities in education, healthcare, and business.

About Henley Passport Index:

The Henley Passport Index is primarily based on data provided by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It ranks 199 passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access visa-free, with visa-on-arrival, or through e-visas. The index was first launched in 2006 by Dr. Christian H. Kaelin.

Conclusion:

The Henley Passport Index 2026 clearly shows that global travel freedom is increasing, yet the “travel gap” between rich and poor countries remains a major challenge. In the context of India, improvements in e-visa facilities and strengthened diplomacy raise expectations of further improvements in its ranking in the coming years.