Singapore Tops 2025 Most Powerful Passports, US Slips to 12th Place
The Henley Passport Index 2025 has ranked Singapore as the world’s most powerful passport, with holders enjoying visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 195 destinations. Japan and South Korea follow in second place, with access to 190 destinations each. Several European nations, including Germany and Spain, remain strong performers just behind the leaders.
U.S. Declines in Rank
For the first time in decades, the United States has slipped out of the global top 10, dropping to 12th place. The U.S. passport now offers visa-free access to 180 destinations, tying with Malaysia. Analysts say this decline reflects shifting visa policies and changing global travel partnerships.
Methodology and Global Trends
The Henley Passport Index measures passport strength by counting the number of countries a holder can visit without needing a visa in advance. The ranking is based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and updated government policies. Experts note that increased regional cooperation and new bilateral agreements have allowed Asian and European passports to gain strength in recent years.
