US Passport Falls Out of the World’s Top 10 for the First Time 🌍
For the first time since the Henley Passport Index began 20 years ago, the US passport has dropped out of the global top 10. Americans can now visit 180 destinations visa-free, putting the United States in 12th place, tied with Malaysia. At the top of the list are Singapore, South Korea, and Japan, whose citizens can travel almost anywhere without a visa.
The Global Passport Power Shift
The latest Henley Passport Index 2025 shows that Asia now leads the world when it comes to travel access. Singapore holds the No. 1 spot with visa-free entry to 193 countries, followed by South Korea (190) and Japan (189).
The United States, once ranked No. 1 a decade ago, has gradually slipped down the list. Experts say it’s partly because other nations are expanding visa-free programs and the US hasn’t kept pace.
Why the US Lost Ground
Several recent changes affected the American passport’s score:
Brazil reinstated visa requirements for US visitors in April 2025.
China, Vietnam, and Somalia added visa-free entry for many European countries but not for the US.
Other smaller updates, like new eVisa systems in Papua New Guinea and Myanmar, also shifted the rankings.
Together, these changes were just enough to push the US out of the top 10 for the first time.
The 2025 Henley Passport Index: Top 12
Here’s how this year’s most powerful passports compare:
Singapore – 193 destinations
South Korea – 190
Japan – 189
Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, Switzerland – 188
Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, Netherlands – 187
Greece, Hungary, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sweden – 186
Australia, Czech Republic, Malta, Poland – 185
Croatia, Estonia, Slovakia, Slovenia, UAE, United Kingdom – 184
Canada – 183
Latvia, Liechtenstein – 182
Iceland, Lithuania – 181
United States, Malaysia – 180
The Reciprocity Issue
While Americans can enter 180 destinations without a visa, the US itself only allows visa-free entry to 46 nationalities. That lack of reciprocity limits new travel agreements and hurts its overall ranking. Countries that open their doors to more visitors tend to earn greater access in return.
Asia’s Rise and Why It Matters
In contrast, Asian and Middle Eastern nations are rapidly building stronger travel networks. China has climbed 30 spots in the past decade, while Singapore and the UAE continue to add destinations every year.
For travelers, these rankings aren’t just about bragging rights—they influence how easily you can move across borders. Fewer visa waivers mean more e-visas, entry fees, and advance paperwork for American travelers.
Still, a US passport remains one of the strongest in the world. With access to 180 countries, it offers more freedom than most, but the trend shows that global mobility is changing fast.
The Bottom Line
The US passport is still powerful, but not as dominant as it once was. The 2025 rankings reflect a shift in global travel access, with Asia taking the lead. For American travelers, it’s a reminder to stay informed, plan ahead, and keep that passport ready for wherever the next adventure takes you.
FAQ: US Passport Ranking 2025
What is the Henley Passport Index?
A quarterly ranking that measures how many places a passport holder can enter without a prior visa, based on IATA travel data.
Where does the US rank this year?
The US is 12th, tied with Malaysia, with visa-free access to 180 destinations.
How powerful is the US passport in 2025?
It’s still one of the world’s most powerful, but no longer in the top 10. Americans can travel visa-free to 180 destinations—13 fewer than Singapore, which currently ranks No. 1.
Who holds the strongest passports in the world?
Singapore (193 destinations), South Korea (190), and Japan (189) top the list for 2025.
Which countries have the weakest passports?
At the bottom are Afghanistan (24 destinations), Syria (26), and Iraq (29), showing a travel access gap of more than 160 destinations compared to Singapore.
Why did the US drop out of the top 10?
Because of new visa requirements and limited reciprocity, countries like Brazil, China, and Vietnam have removed or restricted visa-free access for Americans.
Does this mean Americans can travel less?
No, but some destinations now require e-visas, entry fees, or pre-travel authorization, so it’s important to check the latest rules before booking.
What affects passport rankings?
Rankings are based on how many destinations allow entry without a visa. Factors include diplomatic relationships, reciprocity agreements, and changes in border policy.
Why does passport strength matter?
It affects how easily travelers can move between countries, how much paperwork they face, and how long they spend in customs lines. Stronger passports mean less red tape and more travel freedom.
Will the US ranking improve?
It could, but that depends on future visa agreements and how open US entry policy becomes. Countries that welcome others tend to gain more travel privileges in return.
How often is the Henley Passport Index updated?
Four times a year, using data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and ongoing research from Henley & Partners.
Where can I check if I need a visa?
You can visit the Henley Passport Index website or check the US State Department’s travel page for up-to-date visa requirements by country.
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