Singapore Tops Global Passport Power Ranking
Nigerians looking to travel abroad still face significant visa restrictions, as the 2025 Henley Passport Index places Nigeria at 90th position out of 199 countries globally. With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only 45 destinations, the Nigerian passport continues to reflect the country’s limited global mobility.
The Henley Passport Index, regarded as the world’s most authoritative ranking of passports, assesses how many destinations a passport holder can access without a prior visa. It draws on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and covers 227 travel destinations.
While Nigeria’s ranking remains unchanged in recent years, countries like the United Arab Emirates and Singapore have made remarkable progress through strong diplomatic engagement and international partnerships, dramatically improving the travel freedom of their citizens.
Despite Nigeria’s low ranking, the index serves as a reminder of the importance of foreign policy, international relations, and economic stability in enhancing global mobility. Improved diplomatic ties and strengthened governance could play a crucial role in boosting Nigeria’s passport strength in the future.
Meanwhile, here are the top 10 most powerful passports in the world for 2025, based on visa-free and visa-on-arrival access:
10. Lithuania, Iceland, United States – Access to 182 destinations
Despite its global influence, the U.S. passport is tied with smaller nations like Lithuania and Iceland. A recent change saw Brazil reintroduce visa requirements for Americans, dropping the U.S. to 10th place.
9. Croatia, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia – Access to 183 destinations
These European nations maintain strong Schengen ties and favorable global diplomatic relations.
8. Estonia, Canada, United Arab Emirates – Access to 184 destinations
The UAE continues its upward climb, now among the top 10 thanks to strategic global diplomacy and rapid economic advancement.
7. Australia, Czechia, Hungary, Malta, Poland – Access to 185 destinations
Strong EU and Commonwealth ties help these nations maintain wide visa-free access.
6. United Kingdom – Access to 186 destinations
Post-Brexit, the UK continues to hold a strong position due to global historical alliances and travel agreements.
5. Greece, New Zealand, Switzerland – Access to 187 destinations
These countries benefit from long-standing neutrality, tourism appeal, and global goodwill.
4. Austria, Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, Norway, Luxembourg, Belgium – Access to 188 destinations
European Union membership and strong global alliances keep these countries near the top.
3. Ireland, Finland, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Spain – Access to 189 destinations
A mix of economic stability, diplomatic strength, and EU connectivity places these passports among the most powerful.
2. Japan and South Korea – Access to 190 destinations
These Asian powerhouses maintain their high ranking with expansive visa waiver agreements and global economic reach.
1. Singapore – Access to 193 destinations
Singapore takes the crown in 2025, offering its citizens the broadest global travel freedom. Its rise is a reflection of its diplomatic excellence, economic prosperity, and political stability.
