India has jumped from 85th to 77th position in the Henley Passport Index 2025, marking a significant rise in its global mobility rank. This progress comes after India dropped five positions last year, making this climb particularly notable.
Visa-Free Travel to 59 Countries
Indian passport holders can now travel to 59 destinations without a visa. Popular regional neighbors like Malaysia, Indonesia, the Maldives, and Thailand offer complete visa-free access, while Sri Lanka, Macau, and Myanmar provide visa-on-arrival options.
Asia Leads the Way in Passport Power
Asian countries dominate the top of the index:
- Singapore tops the list with 193 visa-free destinations
- Japan and South Korea follow closely with 190 destinations
In contrast, Afghanistan remains at the bottom with access to only 25 destinations.
Europe Still Strong, But Shifting
Seven European countries — including France, Germany, and Italy — share 3rd place, while Austria, Netherlands, and Sweden rank jointly 4th. The UK and US, once global leaders, now stand at 6th and 10th positions respectively.
Geopolitical Shifts & Strategic Citizenship
According to Dr. Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley & Partners, the passport has become more than just a travel document—it’s now a symbol of international influence and strategic mobility.
“With rising geopolitical tensions and global inequalities, having access to multiple nations isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity,” Steffen emphasized.
India’s Rise: Diplomatic Engagement Matters
India’s improvement, although modest in numbers, highlights the impact of strong regional diplomacy and strategic international relations. Despite adding only two new destinations to its visa-free tally, India’s rank improved significantly.
Final Takeaway
India’s progress in the Henley Passport Index 2025 reflects its growing global presence, enhanced regional partnerships, and the increasing importance of passport power in today’s interconnected world.
