The United Kingdom has dropped to 6th place in the latest Henley Passport Index, down from 5th since the last ranking, marking a continued downward trend for what was once considered one of the world’s most powerful passports.
The index ranks passports based on how many countries their holders can visit without a visa. UK passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations.
This slight drop reflects a broader decline for both the UK and the US, with the United States falling from 9th to 10th place, its lowest ranking ever, and putting it on the edge of falling out of the top 10 entirely.
Despite the drop, the UK passport still offers extensive travel freedom, especially within Europe, the Americas, and parts of Asia and Oceania.
Who Tops the List?
Singapore continues to hold the top spot, offering visa-free access to 193 countries. Japan and South Korea are tied for 2nd, while many European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, share the 3rd spot.
The most powerful passports for 2025
- Singapore (193 destinations)
- Japan, South Korea (190)
- Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain (189)
- Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden (188)
- Greece, New Zealand, Switzerland (187)
- United Kingdom (186)
- Australia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Malta, Poland (185)
- Canada, Estonia, United Arab Emirates (184)
- Croatia, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia (183)
- Iceland, Lithuania, United States (182)
Other Highlights
While European countries continue to dominate the top ranks, Asian passports are rising fast. Singapore retains the #1 spot with access to 193 destinations, followed by Japan and South Korea in second place.
- India saw the biggest jump, moving from 85th to 77th place.
- UAE entered the top 10 after climbing 34 spots over the past decade.
- China also made significant progress, up 34 places since 2014.
- Afghanistan remains in last place, with visa-free access to just 25 countries.
While the UK still enjoys strong global mobility, the shift in rankings signals changing global dynamics and increasing competition from Asian and European passports.
What UK Citizenship Offers
Although the UK passport’s power has slightly dipped, it remains among the most respected travel documents globally.
Becoming a British citizen provides more than just passport strength.
Key benefits include:
- Right of Abode: Unrestricted right to live and work in the UK.
- Access to the NHS: Full access to the UK’s world-renowned National Health Service.
- Consular Support: Assistance from UK embassies abroad in case of emergencies.
- Eligibility to Pass Citizenship to Children: British citizens can usually pass citizenship to children born abroad.
- Political Rights: Right to vote in UK elections and stand for public office.
- Dual Nationality Allowed: British citizens can hold dual or multiple nationalities, unless restricted by another country.
If you need assistance with a British passport application or renewal, contact IaM.
How strong is your passport in 2025? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
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If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.
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Travel and Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager at IaM (Immigration and Migration)
Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra “Task Clients Well”.
When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.
