India’s passport climbs several ranks in world’s most powerful passports rankings; US, UK no longer powerhouses – top points to know
India’s passport has climbed several ranks in the latest Henley Passport Index list of the world’s most powerful or strongest passports. The strength of Indian passport has increased substantially in recent times, enabling Indians to access more than 60 nations without prior visa arrangements or through visa-on-arrival facilities. Interestingly, an assessment of the Henley Passport Index in a TOI report shows that amongst the passports of approximately 200 countries the conventional leaders such as the US and the UK have declined in rankings, whilst Asian nations have emerged as the new frontrunners in passport privileges.
How powerful is India’s passport?
The Indian passport’s position has seen a marginal improvement from the previous year, although its performance over extended periods shows considerable variations. The present standing is actually lower than its position ten years prior. The highest position achieved was number 71 in 2006, the TOI report said.Whilst India currently holds the 77th position in the latest rankings, it lags behind 147 nations regarding the count of destinations where its citizens can access visa-free travel or obtain visa-on-arrival privileges.
Strength of India’s passport
For Indian passport holders, Africa and South-East Asia present the most accessible international destinations. Besides unrestricted entry to certain neighbouring nations, Indians can visit many African and South-East Asian countries through simplified visa-on-arrival schemes or electronic visa applications.The duration of visa-free stays varies across nations:
- 7-15 days in 4 countries (including Iran, Philippines)
- 30-60 days in 12 countries (including Malaysia, Thailand)
- 90 days in 6 countries (including Maldives, Senegal)
- 180 days in 2 countries (Dominica, Montserrat)
- Unlimited stay in 2 countries (Nepal, Bhutan)
The accessibility breakdown shows:* 26 countries offer visa-free entry* 38 countries provide visa-on-arrival* 41 countries accept e-visa applicationsIndians enjoy straightforward visa access to more than 100 nations, including those offering e-visas. Among South Asian nations, Bhutan ranks 84th globally in passport strength, whilst Bangladesh (94th), Nepal (95th) and Pakistan (96th) occupy similar positions. Sri Lanka stands at 91st position. China, India’s northern neighbour, holds the 60th position, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 83 destinations.
Top 10 most powerful passports : Asian countries lead in global passport rankings
Citizens from Singapore, Japan and South Korea currently enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges to more than 190 destinations worldwide. Their sustained international relations, economic partnerships and worldwide connectivity have established their dominance in passport strength. This leadership position has remained stable across recent years.Rank in 2025 | Passport | Access (visa-free)
- Singapore — 193
- Japan, South Korea — 190
- Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain — 189
- Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden — 188
- Greece, New Zealand, Switzerland — 187
- UK — 186
- Australia, Czechia, Hungary, Malta, Poland — 185
- Canada, Estonia, UAE — 184
- Croatia, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia — 183
- Iceland, Lithuania, US — 182
Decline of traditional western influenceThe United States and United Kingdom, which held premier positions in passport rankings in 2014 with extensive global access, have experienced a notable decline in their standings over the previous ten years.
US, UK no longer the powerhouses
The United States, whilst positioned at number 10, now trails behind 33 nations regarding the quantity of countries offering straightforward entry to its passport holders.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com