Henley Passport Index 2026

The Henley Passport Index 2026 is here, and it continues to be the authoritative global ranking of passports based on visa-free access. This index serves as a critical resource for travellers, businesses, and governments alike, offering a unique perspective on international mobility. With globalisation reshaping travel and connectivity, understanding the power of your passport has never been more important.

Whether you are a frequent traveller or planning your next international trip, this guide will help you understand the significance of passport rankings and how they impact global mobility.

The Henley Passport Index is a globally recognised ranking system that evaluates the strength of passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. It is an essential tool for those looking to understand their travel freedom and how it compares globally.

What it measures: Visa-free access defined

The Henley Passport Index focuses on visa-free access, which refers to the ability of passport holders to enter a country without needing to apply for a visa beforehand. This includes visa-on-arrival privileges, electronic travel authorisations (ETAs), and full visa exemptions. A higher score on the index indicates a greater number of destinations accessible without prior visa requirements, reflecting the strength and global reach of a passport.

Understanding the data sources behind the rankings

The rankings are based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which maintains the world’s most comprehensive travel information database. This data is further supplemented by extensive in-house research to ensure accuracy and reliability. The index is updated regularly to reflect changes in visa policies and international agreements, making it a dynamic and up-to-date resource for global mobility insights.

The Henley Passport Index uses a robust methodology to calculate passport rankings, ensuring fairness and transparency.

Criteria for visa-free access assessment

The primary criterion for ranking is the number of destinations a passport holder can visit without obtaining a visa in advance. Each country’s visa policies are analysed to determine whether its citizens can access a destination visa-free, with a visa-on-arrival, or through an ETA. The total number of accessible destinations forms the passport’s score, with higher scores indicating greater travel freedom.

Changes in rankings over time

Passport rankings are not static; they evolve based on geopolitical events, international agreements, and changes in visa policies. For instance, countries that establish new diplomatic ties or trade agreements often see improvements in their passport power. Conversely, political instability or strained international relations can lead to a decline in ranking.

The Henley Passport Index 2026 reveals several interesting insights into the top-ranked countries and those making significant progress.

Key highlights of the top-ranked passports in 2026

The top passports in 2026 continue to belong to countries with strong global influence and robust international agreements. These include countries in Europe and Asia, which dominate the rankings due to their extensive visa-free access to major global destinations.

Countries that made the biggest jumps

Several countries have made notable improvements in their rankings, driven by new diplomatic ties and visa agreements. Emerging economies are leveraging international partnerships to enhance their passport power, reflecting their growing importance on the global stage.

The 2026 Henley Passport Index highlights significant trends in global mobility and the shifting dynamics of international travel.

Insights into international movement shifts

Global mobility has been influenced by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, economic partnerships, and geopolitical developments. Countries with strong diplomatic ties and robust economies continue to dominate the rankings, while others are making strategic moves to improve their global accessibility.

Impact on business and personal travel

A strong passport not only facilitates leisure travel but also plays a crucial role in business. Entrepreneurs and professionals benefit from reduced visa processing times and costs, enabling seamless travel for meetings, conferences, and investments. For personal travellers, a powerful passport translates to hassle-free vacations and the ability to explore new destinations with ease.

A passport’s strength has a direct impact on the ease and cost of travel, making it a crucial factor for both personal and professional journeys.

Benefits of high mobility for business and tourism

A high-ranking passport opens doors to numerous opportunities, from expanding business operations to exploring new cultures. For businesses, it simplifies travel logistics, reduces administrative burdens, and fosters international collaborations. For tourists, it ensures a stress-free travel experience with fewer visa-related hurdles.

Impact on visa application ease and costs

A strong passport significantly reduces the need for time-consuming visa applications, saving both time and money. Travellers with high-ranking passports often enjoy expedited entry processes and lower visa fees, making international travel more accessible and affordable.

The Henley Passport Index 2026 offers valuable insights into global mobility and the power of passports. As international travel continues to evolve, understanding the significance of passport rankings can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions.

Whether you are planning a leisure trip or expanding your business overseas, having a strong passport can simplify your journey and open up new opportunities. Take advantage of the insights provided by the Henley Passport Index to explore the world with confidence.