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Experts say India’s rising passport ranking reflects its growing global influence and stronger international partnerships
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As India continues to expand its diplomatic and economic footprint, its citizens are likely to benefit from greater travel freedom in the years ahead
The strength of a passport reflects how easily citizens can travel across borders, and the latest Henley Passport Index shows some encouraging news for India. In the newest rankings, India’s passport has climbed to 75th place, a jump of ten positions from last year’s 85th spot. Indian travellers can now visit 56 countries without needing a visa in advance, highlighting a gradual improvement in global mobility for Indian citizens.
The Henley Passport Index ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can enter visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. A higher ranking usually signals strong diplomatic ties and international trust.
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India’s current position shows steady progress, although it is still below its best-ever ranking of 71, achieved in 2006
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For much of the past two decades, India’s passport has hovered around the 80th position
Indian passport holders enjoy visa-free travel to several destinations, including Malaysia, Thailand, Mauritius, Nepal, Barbados, Jamaica, Fiji and Seychelles. Many other countries, such as Indonesia, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Qatar and Jordan, offer visas on arrival, making travel more convenient for Indian tourists and business travellers.
At the top of the global list, Singapore holds the world’s most powerful passport, offering visa-free access to 192 destinations. Japan and South Korea share second place with access to 187 countries, while Sweden and the United Arab Emirates are tied at third with 186 destinations. Major European nations such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Switzerland are close behind, and countries like the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand also feature in the top ten.
