A small country with a total land area of just 277 square miles (almost 330 times the UK) holds the world's most powerful passports. Southeast Asian country, Singapore has secured its top spot in the well-known rankings, allowing visa-free access to 193 of the 227 countries around the world.
According to the latest Henry Passport Index, Singapore holds its position as the world's most powerful passport owner. Longtime leader Japan follows second place alongside Korea, offering access to 190 destinations.
The third position is shared by several EU member states, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland and South Korea.
With historical data over 19 years, the Henry Passport Index is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Agency (IATA).
The index includes 199 different passports and 227 different travel destinations. When renewed monthly, it is considered a standard reference tool when evaluating where a passport is ranked in the Global Mobility Spectrum.
The UK holds sixth place in the global rankings and shares it with Australia.
Singapore is home to 5 million people from four major communities. They are Chinese (majority), Malay, Indian and Eurasians. Since independence on August 9, 1965, the country has adopted a parliamentary democratic system.
Currently, the government and cabinet are led by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and President Tarman Shanmugaratnam is the head of state.
According to its official website, one of the reasons why Singapore has proven attractive as a home is its ease of living, especially in terms of its residence, transportation and governance system.
The website added: “Over the years, Singapore has made great strides in many regions, garnering encouraging numbers of international acclaim that recognizes the city as vibrant and world-class.”
