Indian Passport Records Historic Climb on Global Index, Gains Access to 59 Visa-Free Countries: India’s passport has achieved its highest climb ever on the Henley Passport Index, marking a significant milestone for Indian travellers. In the latest update released on July 22, India vaulted from the 85th to the 77th position, making it the largest mover globally over the past six months with an impressive jump of eight spots.
The Henley Passport Index 2025 highlights a transforming global mobility landscape where emerging nations, including India, are asserting their presence and expanding travel opportunities for their citizens.
This year’s eight-place climb has reflects India’s growing global influence and strengthening diplomatic relations.
According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, Indian passport holders can now travel to 59 destinations visa-free or with visa-on-arrival (VOA). Some of the popular visa-free destinations include Malaysia, Indonesia, Maldives, and Thailand. Meanwhile, countries such as Sri Lanka, Macau, and Myanmar offer VOA facilities for Indian citizens.
However, travellers are advised to check specific requirements before planning their journeys, as visa-free and VOA access often vary based on time and purpose of travel.
Globally, the latest trends reveal Asia’s dominance in passport power. Singapore emerged as the top-ranked nation, providing visa-free entry to 193 destinations, showcasing its effective diplomacy and robust international ties. Japan and South Korea closely followed, each granting access to 190 destinations.
Conversely, the United States and United Kingdom experienced a decline in their rankings, now standing at the 10th and 6th positions respectively. Once dominant in global mobility, these Western powers are being surpassed by Asian and EU countries forming strategic partnerships to broaden travel freedoms.
Additionally, seven EU nations — Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Spain — secured the third rank with access to 189 destinations, while Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and Sweden jointly took fourth place, offering visa-free travel to 188 locations.
