- Singapore tops the 2025 Henley Passport Index with access to 193 visa-free destinations.
- India jumps eight spots, marking its highest position in global mobility rankings.
- The US and UK continue to slide, signaling a shift in global travel power.
The 2025 Henley Passport Index reveals a dramatic reshaping of global mobility, with Asian countries asserting dominance. Singapore leads the world with unmatched access to 193 destinations, followed closely by Japan and South Korea, each securing second place with 190 destinations.
Meanwhile, the United States and the United Kingdom continue their downward trajectory. The US, once the global mobility leader, now ranks 10th — its lowest standing in two decades. The UK also fell to 6th place.
India Rises, West Falls: 2025 Passport Rankings Signal New Global Mobility Order
China and the UAE emerged as standout performers in long-term mobility growth. Over the past decade, China surged 34 places, now ranked 60th, driven by a rapid expansion in reciprocal visa-free access. Notably, China now welcomes travelers from all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, plus several South American countries, reinforcing its ambition to be a hub of global engagement.
The UAE’s trajectory is equally remarkable. From 42nd place just ten years ago, the Emirates now holds 8th place, offering access to 185 destinations. Its rise illustrates how agile diplomacy, economic influence, and strategic alliances can quickly elevate global mobility power. It also demonstrates the role of tourism and business accessibility in national passport strategies.
The decline of legacy powers highlights the growing multipolarity in travel freedom. Nations like Venezuela, the US, and Canada have all seen their rankings fall. Restrictive immigration policies and reduced diplomatic outreach are widely seen as contributing factors. This has triggered increased interest in second citizenships, especially among US and UK nationals seeking mobility security.
Asia-Pacific’s growth is also mirrored in air travel demand. According to IATA, the region posted a 9.5% increase in international traffic during the first five months of 2025, far outpacing other markets. With strong demand and confident travelers, the region continues to drive global tourism and business travel, further reinforcing the power of its top-ranked passports.
As travel freedom becomes a measure of global influence, 2025 marks a turning point — Asia is leading the charge, while Western powers reassess their standing in a more competitive and connected world.
“The power of a passport lies not just in where it can take you, but in what it says about where you come from.” — Anonymous Global Mobility Expert
