A decade of change: ranking of the world's most powerful passports
According to the Henley Passport Index, the Singaporean passport was recognized as the most powerful passport in the world in 2026. International travel opportunities have expanded significantly over the past decade, with Asian countries occupying the top positions in the ranking.
**A decade of change: The world's most powerful passports have been released**
A new ranking by the Henley Passport Index has revealed the world's most powerful passports. The ranking is based on the number of countries and territories that citizens of a country can visit without a visa.
According to the data, in 2026, the Singaporean passport took the top spot. In 2016, Singaporean citizens were able to travel to 173 destinations without a visa, but by 2026 this figure had increased to 192.
Japan, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates shared second place. Passport holders of these countries have the opportunity to enter 188 countries and territories without a visa.
The ranking shows that Asian countries have significantly increased their influence in the field of international travel over the past decade. The top four places in the world ranking in 2026 were occupied by Asian countries.
One of the largest increases was observed in the United Arab Emirates. According to Henley & Partners, over the past two decades, the country has increased the number of visa-free travel destinations by 153, bringing the total to 188. This is explained by the expansion of diplomatic relations, strengthening international cooperation and economic development.
European countries also maintained their high positions in the ranking. Norway took fifth place with 186 visa-free destinations, and Switzerland took sixth place with 185 destinations. Passports of European Union countries and the United Kingdom allow visa-free travel to an average of 184 countries and territories.
North American countries also expanded their visa-free travel options compared to 2016. Canadian passport holders can currently visit 183 countries and territories without a visa, while US citizens can visit 180. However, their position in the world rankings has slipped slightly as other countries have grown at a faster pace.