The World’s Most Powerful Passports Are Here, Where Does India Stand?

Henley Passport Index 2026 : The Indian passport has made notable progress in global travel rankings, moving up five positions to reach the 80th spot in the 2026 Henley Passport Index. Holders of the Indian passport can now travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival to 55 destinations worldwide, reflecting gradual improvement in international mobility. While still behind top-ranked passports, this upward movement highlights growing diplomatic ties and travel agreements. As countries increasingly ease entry rules, Indian citizens can anticipate expanded opportunities for global travel.

Indian Passport Ranking Overview

The Henley Passport Index, which evaluates the strength of 199 passports against 227 destinations, reveals that India’s passport has seen a gradual climb in recent years. In 2025, India ranked 85th, offering visa-free or e-visa access to 57 countries, while in 2024, it held the 80th position. For 2026, India shares the 80th spot with Niger and Algeria, demonstrating consistent progress amidst evolving global travel regulations.

Visa-Free Travel Opportunities

Indian passport holders can now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 55 destinations, covering a mix of countries across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. While the number of accessible destinations has slightly fluctuated in recent years, the overall trend indicates an increase in international travel flexibility for Indian citizens. Experts suggest that diplomatic negotiations and bilateral agreements continue to play a key role in enhancing mobility.

Global Leaders in Passport Strength

Asian passports dominate the top of the Henley Passport Index 2026. Singapore holds the number one spot, providing visa-free access to 192 countries and territories. Japan and South Korea follow closely in second place, with visa-free entry to 188 destinations each. European nations like Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, and Luxembourg are tied for third, offering access to 186 countries. These rankings underscore the influence of strong international relations and comprehensive travel agreements.

Notable Global Movements

The United Arab Emirates has demonstrated remarkable growth, climbing five spots to reach fifth position. Since 2006, the UAE has gained visa-free access to 149 destinations, marking its strongest performance in the 20-year history of the index. The United States, which fell to 12th last year, has returned to the top 10, reflecting renewed international mobility. At the lower end, Afghanistan and Pakistan remain among the least powerful passports, ranking 101st and 98th respectively, with minimal visa-free access.

What This Means for Indian Citizens

India’s improvement in the passport index signals increased travel convenience for citizens, especially for business, tourism, and educational purposes. While the country is yet to match the top passport rankings, visa agreements with select nations have enhanced mobility. With ongoing diplomatic efforts and global collaborations, Indian travellers may expect further easing of visa requirements, expanding both leisure and professional opportunities worldwide.

The Henley Passport Index Methodology

The Henley Passport Index relies on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to calculate visa-free access for passport holders. Rankings are determined by how many destinations a passport allows entry to without prior visa approval. The index is widely regarded as a benchmark for assessing global travel freedom and is updated annually to reflect changes in international policies and bilateral agreements.