The Indian passport has received a significant boost in international standing, reflecting India’s growing influence on the world stage. According to the latest Henley Passport Index, Indian travelers now have more freedom than ever, underscoring the country’s rising global profile and diplomatic reach.
What Is the Henley Passport Index?
The Henley Passport Index is a widely recognized global ranking that measures the travel freedom of passports. It assesses how many countries a passport holder can enter either visa-free or with a visa-on-arrival. The more destinations accessible without prior visa requirements, the more powerful a passport is considered.
India’s Impressive Climb in the Rankings
In a remarkable leap, the Indian passport has jumped eight spots, securing the 77th position in the 2025 index. This marks the most significant advancement by any nation over the past six months. Indian citizens can now travel to 59 countries without needing a visa, up from 57 earlier.
While the number of new visa-free destinations has only slightly increased, the leap in ranking highlights India’s growing diplomatic influence and improved global mobility for its citizens. The upgrade reflects strengthened international relations and evolving immigration agreements.
World’s Most Powerful Passports
Singapore currently holds the top spot, with its passport offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 193 countries—the highest in the world.
Japan and South Korea follow closely behind, granting their citizens entry to 190 countries without prior visas.
A Shift in Global Power Dynamics
This year’s Henley Passport Index reveals more than just travel trends—it illustrates a broader shift in geopolitical influence:
Decline of Traditional Western Powers: The United States has dropped to 10th place, slipping out of the top tier of global power. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom now holds the 6th position, reflecting diminishing dominance in global mobility
Rise of Asia: The United Arab Emirates has soared from 42nd to 8th place over the last decade, showcasing extraordinary growth. Similarly, China has jumped 34 spots to reach 60th, with Chinese citizens now enjoying visa-free access to over 75 nations, up from just 20 five years ago.
This eastward shift signals a rebalancing of power. With India, China, and the UAE gaining influence, Asia is emerging as the new hub of mobility and economic momentum. Supporting this trend, data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reveals that Asia-Pacific carriers are now driving the expansion of global air travel.