Top-Ranked Passports in 2026: Discover the World’s Most Powerful
In 2026, Singapore retains its position as the holder of the world’s top passport. This passport grants visa-free access to 192 countries. On the opposite end is Afghanistan, ranking last with passport holders allowed entry to just 24 destinations. This significant gap of 168 destinations highlights the increasing disparities in global mobility.
Henley Passport Index Overview
The Henley Passport Index, marking its 20th anniversary, utilizes exclusive Timatic data from IATA. It evaluates passports based on the number of destinations accessible without a visa. Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, emphasizes the uneven distribution of global mobility benefits.
He asserts that passport privilege significantly influences opportunities, security, and economic participation, concentrating advantages in politically stable nations.
Top 10 Most Powerful Passports in 2026
Along with Singapore, Asia and Europe dominate the top ranks of the index. Japan and South Korea tie for second place with access to 188 destinations. Here are the top ten passports for 2026:
- 1. Singapore – 192 destinations
- 2. Japan, South Korea – 188 destinations
- 3. Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland – 186 destinations
- 4. Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Netherlands – 185 destinations
- 5. Hungary, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates – 184 destinations
- 6. Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Malta, New Zealand, Poland – 183 destinations
- 7. Australia, Latvia, Liechtenstein, United Kingdom – 182 destinations
- 8. Canada, Iceland, Lithuania – 181 destinations
- 9. Malaysia – 180 destinations
- 10. United States – 179 destinations
This ranking illustrates a strong presence of European passports, while several non-European countries like the United Arab Emirates and Malaysia are also gaining prominence.
Trends for the U.S. and U.K.
The United States has re-entered the Top 10, although it masks a longer-term decline. It has dropped from 4th to 10th place over two decades. The United Kingdom has similarly decreased from 3rd to 7th place. Commenting on this trend, Misha Glenny, a journalist and Rector of the Institute for Human Sciences, notes that passport power reflects political stability and diplomatic credibility.
Emerging Powers: UAE, Balkans, and China
The United Arab Emirates stands out as a success story, increasing access to 149 destinations since 2006, now ranking 5th. Many countries in the Western Balkans and Eastern Europe, such as Albania, Ukraine, and Serbia, have also advanced significantly. Similarly, China has climbed 28 spots over the past decade, now allowing entry to 141 destinations.
Mobility as Soft Power
The report reveals a growing contrast between outbound mobility and inbound access. The U.S. passport allows entry to 179 destinations, yet it only permits 46 nationalities entry without a visa. In contrast, China now welcomes 77 nationalities visa-free, demonstrating a trend towards increased openness.
Dr. Tim Klatte observes that shifts in global power dynamics highlight China’s renewed openness compared to the U.S.’s increasing nationalism.
Tightening Controls in the U.S. and EU
The Henley Global Mobility Report 2026 cautions about potential restrictions in U.S. border policies. A proposed regulation could hinder seamless travel for citizens of 42 allied nations, necessitating extensive biometric data collection.
In Europe, recent visa reforms may further complicate travel for African nationals, as Schengen rejection rates have climbed. Professor Mehari Taddele Maru criticizes these policies for institutionalizing mobility barriers that reflect geopolitical power rather than individual risk.
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