UK passport ranking drops in Henley Index

The UK's passport ranking has fallen as Singapore tops the list for travel freedom.

UK passport ranking declines as Singapore leads

According to the Henley Passport Index, Singapore has the most powerful passport in the world, granting visa-free access to 193 countries. Japan and South Korea follow, each with access to 190 countries, while several European nations share third place. The UK, once ranked first from 2013 to 2015, is now in sixth place with access to 186 countries, a decline attributed to Brexit. Other countries like Australia and Poland follow closely, while Afghanistan ranks last with only 25 countries accessible.

The drop in the UK's passport ranking symbolizes a broader narrative about the effects of Brexit on international mobility. The decline from first to sixth not only affects travelers but also reflects changing geopolitical dynamics. As countries with stronger travel documents gain prominence, the implications for UK citizens could lead to increased hurdles in international travel and stronger calls for policy adjustments. The ease of travel is becoming a significant factor in assessing national strength on the world stage.

Highlights

As countries evolve, access to global mobility remains a critical discussion point for policymakers.