Japan Retains Top Spot Singapore, South Korea Move Up the RanksGermany Slips to 4th PlaceMiddle Eastern Nations Make Big Gains UK and US Passports Lose PowerChina Still Mired in Lower Half of RankingsRussia, Indonesia See DeclinesSmall Nations Gain Visa-Free Access
Japan Retains Top Spot Singapore, South Korea Move Up the RanksGermany Slips to 4th PlaceMiddle Eastern Nations Make Big Gains UK and US Passports Lose PowerChina Still Mired in Lower Half of RankingsRussia, Indonesia See DeclinesSmall Nations Gain Visa-Free Access - Japan has retained its number one spot on the Henley Passport Index for the fifth consecutive year. The Japanese passport offers hassle-free travel to 193 destinations around the world, giving Japanese citizens unparalleled access and visa-free travel.
Two Asian passport powerhouses, Singapore and South Korea, have moved up the ranks in the latest Henley Passport Index. Singapore overtook Germany to claim sole possession of second place, while South Korea jumped two spots to tie with Germany at third place.
The upward mobility of these Asian passports demonstrates the growing stature and influence of the region. It also highlights the success of specific national policies aimed at maximizing passport strength.
Singapore and South Korea have taken deliberate steps to maximize the travel privileges afforded to their citizens. For example, Singapore has visa waiver agreements with major economies like the EU and US in place. The city-state also continually seeks out new partnerships, having recently signed deals with countries like Uzbekistan.
As a result, the Singaporean passport grants visa-free access to 192 destinations. For globetrotting Singaporeans like student Josiah Lim, this is a boon: “My passport lets me travel wherever I want for my semester abroad. I can study in London, intern in New York City and still have time to backpack across Europe without worrying about visas.”
Similarly, South Korea has negotiated visa waivers with nations from Russia to Peru. This gives its passport-holders easy entry to 190 countries. As Seoul-based executive James Choi puts it, “Thanks to my South Korean passport, I can respond to urgent business requests anywhere in the world. I can literally fly to a meeting in South America tomorrow. That kind of access is invaluable.”
The proactive diplomacy of these nations has paid dividends in passport power. Experts note that while Western countries rest on their laurels, Asian nations are racing ahead. Building a strong passport has become a matter of national pride and strategy in Asia.
Looking ahead, Singapore and South Korea may have to watch out for China. Though it currently ranks further down, China is aggressively pursuing passport power. From visa-waivers to promoting international travel, China wants to boost the might of its passport.