Ranking of World Passports: Which country has the most powerful passport in 2021?
Every year, the Henley Passport Index releases a ranking of the most powerful passports in the world based on the number of destinations their holders can visit without a visa or with visa on arrival. The ranking is highly anticipated by travelers, businesses, and governments alike, as it provides valuable insights into the global mobility landscape and highlights which countries have the most diplomatic clout.
In the latest edition of the Henley Passport Index for 2021, Japan and Singapore have once again emerged as the top two countries with the most powerful passports in the world. Citizens of both countries can travel to 193 destinations without the need for a visa, making their passports the most sought-after by globetrotters. This is hardly surprising, as Japan and Singapore have consistently ranked high in previous years due to their strong diplomatic ties and impressive global standing.
Following closely behind Japan and Singapore are Germany and South Korea, which share the third spot on the ranking with access to 191 destinations visa-free. The European nations of Finland, Italy, Luxembourg, and Spain are tied for the fourth spot with passport holders being able to visit 190 destinations without a visa. Rounding out the top five is Denmark, Austria and Sweden, each providing access to 189 destinations without a visa.
On the other end of the spectrum, Afghanistan holds the unenviable title of the least powerful passport in the world, with its citizens able to visit only 26 destinations without a visa. This vast disparity in global mobility highlights the stark inequalities that exist in the world and the significant impact that a passport can have on an individual’s ability to travel, work, and live freely.
Despite the ongoing pandemic and the resulting restrictions on international travel, the ranking of world passports remains an important indicator of global connectivity and diplomatic relations. The ability of a country’s citizens to travel freely and access a wide range of destinations reflects its standing on the global stage and its level of engagement with the international community.
In recent years, the concept of citizenship-by-investment has gained popularity among high-net-worth individuals seeking to expand their global mobility options. Countries such as Malta, Cyprus, and Saint Kitts and Nevis offer citizenship through investment programs, allowing individuals to obtain a second passport and access a wider range of destinations without the need for a visa.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on global mobility and the ranking of world passports, with many countries imposing restrictions on international travel to contain the spread of the virus. As a result, the number of destinations that passport holders can visit without a visa has decreased in comparison to previous years, highlighting the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of unforeseen challenges.
Looking ahead, the ranking of world passports is likely to continue evolving as countries adapt to the new normal and seek to strengthen their diplomatic ties in a post-pandemic world. With the rise of digital nomadism and remote work, the ability to travel freely and access a wide range of destinations without the need for a visa has never been more important, making the ranking of world passports a key indicator of global connectivity and diplomatic influence.
