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US loses ground in passport strength rankings

The latest Henley Passport Index ranks the US 10th, its lowest ever, impacting travel ease.

July 22, 2025 at 06:17 PM

US slips again in passport power rankings

The United States sees a notable decline in passport power rankings, reflecting shifts in global mobility.

US drops to 10th in global passport rankings

The United States has slipped to 10th place in the latest Henley Passport Index, marking its lowest rank in 20 years. Previously holding the top spot in 2014, the US now shares its 10th position with Iceland and Lithuania, allowing visa-free access to just 182 destinations. The leading passport remains Singapore, with access to 193 places. South Korea joins Japan at second place with 190 and several EU countries follow closely behind. The rankings reveal a widening mobility gap, with Afghanistan in last place, permitting travel to only 25 locations.

Key Takeaways

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The US is now ranked 10th in global passport strength.

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Singapore holds the top spot with access to 193 destinations.

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There are 33 countries ranked above the US in terms of passport power.

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South Korea and Japan are tied for second place with access to 190 destinations.

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Afghanistan ranks last, with visa-free access to only 25 countries.

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US visitors face new visa fees, potentially impacting travel dynamics.

"The consolidation we’re seeing at the top underscores that access is earned — and must be maintained through active and strategic diplomacy."

Christian H. Kaelin emphasizes the importance of diplomacy in maintaining passport power.

"Nations that proactively negotiate visa waivers and nurture reciprocal agreements continue to rise."

Kaelin outlines the benefits of effective international relations for passport rankings.

The drop in the US passport ranking highlights a broader trend in global mobility where diplomatic efforts play a critical role. Countries that actively negotiate visa arrangements are gaining advantages, while the US's recent introduction of a visa integrity fee may discourage incoming travelers. This could further impact the country's standing in international rankings, emphasizing the need for effective diplomacy to maintain passport power.