Ever been stuck in a slow visa line, watching others head off to explore? That is when you feel the real power or limits of your passport. For millions of Indians, that wait just got shorter. The newest Henley Passport Index is out, and India has made its biggest leap yet.

India’s Biggest Jump and Why Travellers Should Care

Indian passport holders have real reason to celebrate. India has soared eight spots up the rankings and now stands at 77th. This is the biggest move of the year for any country. 

What does that mean in real life? More spontaneous trips, less paperwork, and greater global freedom. As of now, Indians can visit 59 destinations without a pre-approved visa. That includes popular places like Malaysia, Indonesia, the Maldives, and Thailand. Sri Lanka and Myanmar now offer visas on arrival, which means you can just land and go.

This is not just good news for vacationers. Students, families, and business travellers all benefit. In the last six months, India added two more visa-free countries to its list. Global opportunities are now easier for everyone.

How the Henley Passport Rankings Work

The Henley Passport Index calculates each score by counting every country or territory you can visit without a pre-trip visa. Whether it is visa-free entry, a visa on arrival, or a quick e-visa, it all counts. 

This year’s index covers 227 destinations, including some you might not see on a regular map. If two countries offer the same number of accessible destinations, they share the same rank.

Sometimes a single rule change, like a new visa agreement, can push a country up or down the list. For travellers, it can mean the difference between a dream trip and another long embassy visit.

The World’s Most Powerful Passports: Singapore Still Leads

Singapore once again leads the world, letting its citizens visit 193 places without a major visa hurdle. It is not easy to get one of these prized passports. You will need years of residency, proof that you are contributing to the economy, and, for men, mandatory national service. Close behind, South Korea and Japan both allow access to 190 countries. Asian passports are among the strongest for global travel.

European nations continue to hold strong positions in the top five. Citizens of these countries can plan last-minute getaways to almost anywhere.

The US Slips, and Some Passports Remain Locked Out

Not all countries are celebrating. The United States, which topped the list in 2014, has now slid to its lowest spot ever. It shares the 10th position, and 33 passports now offer more border crossings than the US. 

Tighter entry rules and shifting global ties have contributed to this decline. Spontaneous travel is now a bit harder for Americans.

Afghanistan, Syria, and Iraq are at the bottom of the list. Afghan citizens can visit only 25 destinations without major paperwork. For many people there, international travel remains a distant dream.

2025 Passport Power Rankings at a Glance