India’s Passport Rank Improves to 80th, With Visa-Free Access to 57 Countries

The latest edition of the Henley Passport Index, a widely recognized annual ranking of global passport strength, has revealed some significant shifts in international travel privileges.

While Singapore has dethroned Japan to claim the title of the world’s most powerful passport, India has made noteworthy progress by ascending five places in the rankings.

India’s Remarkable Rise in Passport Strength

Indian passport holders can now rejoice as their travel opportunities have expanded, thanks to a significant improvement in their passport’s ranking.

The 2023 Henley Passport Index places India at an impressive 80th position, marking a remarkable rise in its global mobility. This advancement comes as India now enjoys visa-free access to 57 destinations across the world.

Visa-Free Countries for Indian Travellers

We bring you a compilation of countries and territories with visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges. For travellers seeking to explore new horizons and immerse themselves in diverse cultures, these destinations offer hassle-free entry. Take a look at the list below:

Please keep in mind that travel regulations may change, so it’s always best to check the latest requirements before planning your journey.

Visa Requirements: A Double-Edged Sword

Despite the positive news, Indian citizens still face some hurdles in international travel due to visa restrictions.

To enter a substantial number of destinations, including prominent countries like China, Japan, Russia, the United States, and the entire European Union, Indian travellers are required to obtain a visa. The high visa requirement has been a contributing factor to India’s lower mobility score.

Impact on Other Countries

The ranking reshuffle also affects other nations in terms of passport power. Japan, which held the top position for five consecutive years, dropped to third place as the number of visa-free destinations for its passport holders decreased.

Meanwhile, the United States, a former chart-topper nearly a decade ago, slid two places to secure the eighth position. The United Kingdom, amidst uncertainties surrounding Brexit, managed to rise two spots to claim fourth place, a position it last held in 2017.

Singapore Claims the Throne

Singapore, known for its economic prosperity and global appeal, has now emerged as the new passport power champion. The city-state’s passport allows visa-free entry to a staggering 192 destinations, providing its citizens with unparalleled travel freedom.

This achievement has contributed to a recent influx of individuals seeking Singaporean citizenship, driven by a crackdown on private enterprise in China and geopolitical tensions elsewhere.

However, obtaining Singaporean citizenship remains a challenging feat, with authorities ruling out granting it based solely on an individual’s net worth.