The South African passport has improved its global standing, according to the 2025 Henley Passport Index, based on data from the International Air Transport Association.
Ranked 48th out of 199 passports, the South African passport currently offers visa-free access to 106 destinations. Compared to 2024, its ranking improved by five places. 48th place is the highest ranking achieved by South Africa since 2014.
The South African passport also ranks among the top five most powerful in Africa. Seychelles leads the region, followed by Mauritius, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia.
Globally, Singapore maintains its position as the world's most powerful passport, offering visa-free access to 195 of 227 destinations. In second place is Japan, which allows visa-free travel to 193 countries.
Third place is occupied by six countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland and South Korea, whose passports provide visa-free access to 192 destinations.
Seven EU passports are tied for fourth place: Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway and Sweden, offering visa-free access to 191 destinations.
In fifth place are Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, which offer visa-free access to 190 destinations.
