The 2025 Passport Index reveals the most powerful passports from each continent and is ranked based on the number of destinations that the owner can visit without prior visa arrangements.
North America: Canada
Canada boasts the most powerful passports in North America, allowing holders to access visas or arrival visas to 173 destinations. The ranking highlights Canada's strong diplomatic relations and global mobility privileges.
Europe: Spain
Spain ranks the highest in Europe, with Spanish passport holders enjoying access to 178 countries without a visa. The European Union's robust international agreements and membership contribute to its extensive travel freedom.
Middle East: UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has secured its position as the top position in the Middle East and offers citizens visa-free or arrival visa access to 179 destinations. This reflects the UAE's extensive diplomatic efforts and strong global partnerships.
South America: Brazil
Brazil holds South America's most powerful passports and allows access to 165 countries without a previous visa. Established diplomatic networks contribute to this ranking.
Africa: Seychelles
Seychelles continues to lead Africa with passports that provide access to 148 destinations. The ranking highlights Seychelles's emphasis on strategic international relations and global connectivity.
Oceania:
New Zealand holds the most powerful passport in Oceania and allows citizens to access visas without visas or 174 destinations. Its global reputation for stability and strong diplomatic ties improves the strength of the passport.
Comparison of the most powerful passports on each continent (2025)
Continental number visa-free destinationsNorth AmericaCanada173EuropeSpain178Middle EastUAE179South AmericaBrazil165AfricaSeychelles148OceaniaNew Zealand174
These rankings reflect the evolving landscape of global mobility, influenced by diplomatic relations, international agreements and geopolitical factors.
While some countries continue to expand travel privileges, others still face restrictions, highlighting the importance of strategic diplomacy in ensuring visa-free access for citizens.
As of 2025, several African countries have significantly improved their passport rankings and expanded global mobility to their citizens.
According to the 2025 Henry Passport Index, the Seychelles holds the most powerful passport in Africa, ranking 25th in the world with access to 156 destinations. Mauritius is 29th, with visa-free entry to 151 destinations, and South Africa ranks 48th with access to 106 countries.
