Each year, the Henley Passport Index measures global mobility by ranking passports based on the number of destinations their holders can enter without obtaining a visa in advance. Using data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the index counts visa-free access, visas on arrival and electronic travel authorisations. The 2026 rankings once again highlight a stark divide between strong and weak passports. While top-ranked passports allow near-frictionless international travel, those at the lower end severely limit mobility, reflecting how geopolitics, security perceptions and diplomatic relationships continue to shape global movement.
North Korea
Palestinian Territory
Bangladesh
Nepal
Somalia
Pakistan
Yemen
Iraq
Syria
Afghanistan
Since multiple countries can share the same rank, the bottom of the Henley Passport Index for 2026 includes the following:
91st:South Sudan, Sudan (visa-free access to 41 destinations)
92nd:Iran (40 destinations)
93rd:Libya, Sri Lanka (39 destinations)
94th:Eritrea, North Korea, Palestinian Territory (38 destinations)
95th:Bangladesh (37 destinations)
96th:Nepal (35 destinations)
97th:Somalia (33 destinations)
98th:Pakistan, Yemen (31 destinations)
99th:Iraq (29 destinations)
100th:Syria (26 destinations)
101st:Afghanistan (24 destinations)
Lower rankings typically stem from a mix of political instability, security concerns and economic challenges. Countries facing prolonged conflict or weak governance often struggle with global trust and limited diplomatic engagement. High levels of irregular migration, asylum claims or overstays can also prompt stricter visa rules from destination countries. In addition, underdeveloped documentation systems and fewer reciprocal visa agreements further restrict travel access.
Restricted visa-free access:Most international trips require advance visa applications.
Longer planning horizons:Travel must be organised weeks or months ahead due to processing timelines.
Higher travel costs:Fees, embassy visits and documentation add to expenses.
Greater uncertainty:Visa approvals are not guaranteed, increasing unpredictability.
Limited global opportunities:Education, work, medical travel and conferences abroad become harder to access.
Transit challenges:Additional transit visas may be required, reducing routing options and extending travel time.
Together, these constraints significantly limit personal mobility and influence how easily individuals can engage in global travel, education, trade and cultural exchange.
