Pakistan’s passport has slipped several spots in the latest Henley Passport Index 2025, ranking 103rd globally. The index, compiled by Henley & Partners[1], evaluates the travel freedom of passports worldwide based on visa-free or visa-on-arrival access.
Pakistan now offers visa-free access to 31 destinations, down from 32 previously. This drop pushes the country’s passport power closer to the bottom of the global list, tied with Yemen.
Regional Neighbours Outpace Pakistan
Pakistan’s passport lags significantly behind its regional neighbours.
- India ranks much higher, with access to over 60 destinations.
- Bangladesh and Sri Lanka also outperform Pakistan on the index.
- Only Iraq (104), Syria (105), and Afghanistan (106) rank below Pakistan globally.
- Yemen and Pakistan are tied at the 103rd position.
This gap highlights Pakistan’s declining mobility compared to others in South Asia. The difference reflects stronger diplomatic ties and visa agreements that neighbouring countries have secured over the years.
Global Leaders and Context
The latest Henley Passport Index shows a sharp contrast between the world’s strongest and weakest passports.
- Singapore tops the list, offering visa-free access to 193 destinations.
- South Korea follows with 190, while Japan is at 189.
- Several European countries, including Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, and Switzerland, are also in the top five with access to 188 destinations.
In comparison, Pakistan’s limited access places it among the weakest passports in the world.
Why Pakistan Is Lagging Behind
Pakistan’s low ranking stems from limited diplomatic engagements and fewer bilateral agreements for visa-free travel. Political instability and security perceptions have also slowed progress.
Additionally, illegal migration trends have influenced foreign visa policies. Historically, many Pakistani nationals have attempted to cross borders illegally or overstay visas, especially in Europe and the Middle East. This reputation makes countries more cautious about offering visa-free access, further limiting Pakistan’s mobility on the global index.
The Henley Index ranking reflects long-term travel freedom trends. While some countries have expanded their visa agreements, Pakistan continues to face challenges in securing broader travel access.
References
- ^ Henley & Partners (www.henleyglobal.com)