Global Passport Power Shift: European Nations Take the Lead in 2024 Henley Passport Index

In the dawn of 2024, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain have emerged as the bearers of the world’s most potent passports, setting a new standard for global travel. The prestigious Henley Passport Index reveals that these nations now offer visa-free entry to an impressive 194 destinations, marking a significant shift in the global passport landscape. The rankings are meticulously curated based on data sourced from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

While Japan and Singapore have held a firm grip on the top spot for the past five years, this quarter’s results showcase a European ascent in the rankings. Finland and Sweden, alongside South Korea, have secured the second position, granting passport holders seamless access to 193 destinations. Following closely behind, Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and the Netherlands jointly claim the third spot, extending visa-free entry to 192 destinations.

On the Asian front, India’s passport secures the 80th spot on the list, offering its citizens visa-free travel to 62 countries, including popular tourist destinations such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Notably, India shares its ranking with Uzbekistan, while neighboring Pakistan holds the 101st position.

Henley & Partners Chairman, Christian H Kaelin, the brains behind the passport index, sheds light on the widening global mobility gap. Despite a general trend towards increased travel freedom over the past two decades, the gap between the highest and lowest ranked countries has reached an unprecedented level.

Kaelin highlights, “The average number of destinations travelers can access visa-free has nearly doubled from 58 in 2006 to 111 in 2024.” This staggering increase underscores the privileged position of top-ranked countries, which now enjoy the freedom to travel to an astounding 166 more destinations without a visa compared to Afghanistan, currently occupying the bottom spot with access to only 28 countries. Syria, with visa-free access to 29 destinations, claims the second-lowest position, followed by Iraq with 31 and Pakistan with 34.

As we embark on a new year, the Henley Passport Index reflects not only the shifting dynamics of global power but also the evolving patterns of international travel and diplomacy. Stay tuned as we continue to explore the ever-changing world of passport rankings and global mobility.