For the first time in the 20-year history of the Henley Passport Index, the United States has dropped out of the top 10 most powerful passports, marking a significant shift in global travel mobility. Compiled by Henley & Partners using data from the International Air Transport Association, the index ranks passports based on visa-free access to 227 destinations worldwide. The U.S. passport now sits at 12th place, tied with Malaysia, offering visa-free travel to 180 destinations.
A Shift in Global Mobility
Once ranked No. 1 in 2014 and still in the top 10 as recently as July 2025, the U.S. passport’s decline stems from a series of global policy changes that have reduced its relative strength. Key factors include:
- Brazil’s Visa Requirement: In April 2025, Brazil revoked visa-free access for U.S. citizens, citing a lack of reciprocal treatment, as the U.S. requires visas for Brazilian travelers.
- China’s Selective Exemptions: China expanded visa-free policies for European nations like Germany and France but excluded the U.S., limiting American access.
- New Restrictions: Somalia introduced an eVisa system, and Papua New Guinea and Myanmar implemented policies that further curtailed U.S. passport mobility.
- Vietnam’s Exclusion: Vietnam’s latest visa-free expansions did not include the U.S., unlike other nations that gained easier entry.
Christian H. Kaelin, chair of Henley & Partners, described the drop as a “pivotal moment in global mobility dynamics.” He noted that nations prioritizing openness and cooperation are gaining ground, while those relying on past influence, like the U.S., are losing their edge. The U.K. passport also slipped, falling to 8th place—its lowest ranking ever—down two spots since July.
Asian Passports Lead the Way
The 2025 Henley Passport Index is dominated by Asian nations, with Singapore holding the top spot for its visa-free access to 193 destinations, followed by South Korea (190) and Japan (189). European nations like Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, and Switzerland trail closely with 188 destinations, while Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, and the Netherlands offer access to 187.
Rising Stars and Stragglers
Other countries have seen remarkable gains:
- United Arab Emirates: The UAE climbed 34 places over the past decade, from 42nd in 2015 to 8th in 2025, tying with the U.K. at 184 destinations.
- China: A standout performer, China’s passport rose from 94th in 2015 to 64th in 2025, gaining visa-free access to 37 additional destinations.
- Afghanistan: At the bottom, Afghanistan’s passport remains the weakest, with visa-free access to only 24 destinations.
U.S. Policy and Global Perception
The U.S. passport’s decline reflects its limited openness to other nations. While Americans can travel visa-free to 180 destinations, the U.S. grants visa-free entry to only 46 nationalities—one of the widest disparities globally. This lack of reciprocity has prompted countries to impose stricter requirements on U.S. travelers, contributing to the passport’s fall.
The shift has also sparked a surge in American interest in alternative citizenship and residency programs. Henley & Partners reports increased inquiries from U.S. citizens seeking second passports or residence in countries with more favorable travel privileges, such as Portugal or Malta.
Broader Context and Competing Rankings
Despite the drop, experts emphasize that the practical impact for most U.S. travelers remains minimal, as 180 visa-free destinations still offer significant global access. The Henley Passport Index is one of several measures of passport strength. For instance, Arton Capital’s 2025 Passport Index ranks the UAE as the world’s most powerful passport, highlighting slight variations in methodology.
2025 Henley Passport Index Top Rankings
- 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, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom (184)
- Canada (183)
- Latvia, Liechtenstein (182)
- Iceland, Lithuania (181)
- United States, Malaysia (180)
The U.S. passport’s fall from the top 10 underscores a broader trend: nations that foster reciprocal agreements and open policies are redefining global mobility. As countries like Singapore and the UAE strengthen their positions, the U.S. faces growing pressure to adapt its visa policies to regain its standing. For now, American travelers may need to navigate a world where their passport carries less weight than before.
