India Drops to 85th in 2025 Henley Passport Index

The 2025 Henley Passport Index reveals shifts in global travel freedom. India’s passport rank has dropped to 85th, granting visa-free access to 57 countries. This marks a decline from 59 countries last year. The index ranks 199 passports worldwide by the number of destinations accessible without a visa. Singapore leads with access to 193 countries, reflecting Asia’s rising influence in global mobility.

Overview of the Henley Passport Index

The Henley Passport Index, launched in 2005, ranks passports based on visa-free travel access. It updates annually to reflect changes in international visa policies. The index measures the freedom ordinary citizens have to travel globally without prior visa arrangements. It is widely used to gauge diplomatic relations and travel openness.

India’s Passport Ranking and Access

India slipped five places to 85th in 2025. Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to 57 countries, down from 59 in 2024. The ranking has fluctuated over the years, peaking at 71 in 2006 and dipping to 90 in 2021. Visa-free countries include Bhutan, Indonesia, Mauritius, Nepal, and Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, visas on arrival are available in 27 countries such as Sri Lanka, Maldives, Jordan, and Qatar.

Comparison with South Asian Neighbours

India’s passport strength is moderate compared to neighbours. Pakistan ranks 103rd with visa-free access to 31 countries. Bangladesh is 100th with 38 destinations, Nepal 101st with 36, and Bhutan 92nd with 50 countries. Bhutan’s passport is slightly stronger, reflecting better regional mobility.

Decline of the United States Passport

The US passport fell out of the top 10 for the first time in 20 years, ranking 12th in 2025. Americans can access 180 countries visa-free, but the US offers visa-free entry to only 46 nations, ranking 77th in openness. This imbalance has led to reciprocal visa restrictions. Countries like Brazil reinstated visa requirements for Americans in 2024. China, Vietnam, and smaller nations have also limited US access, impacting its global mobility.

Countries with Strongest and Weakest Passports

Singapore tops the index with access to 193 destinations, followed by South Korea and Japan. European countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland remain in the top 10 due to stable diplomacy. At the bottom, Afghanistan holds the weakest passport, with visa-free access to only 24 countries.