For Indian travelers hoping for easier access to global destinations, the 2025 edition of the Henley Passport Index brings disappointing news. India’s passport has slipped five places, ranking 85th globally, with visa-free access to 57 destinations, down from 62 last year.
This decline indicates reduced global mobility for Indian citizens, raising concerns for travelers and businesses alike about the challenges of visa restrictions and their impact on international movement, tourism, and commerce.
Understanding the Henley Passport Index
Compiled by London-based consultancy Henley & Partners, the Henley Passport Index is the world’s most recognized measure of passport power. It ranks passports based on the number of countries their holders can visit visa-free or with a visa on arrival. A higher ranking reflects greater freedom of movement for citizens.
The 2025 index underscores Asia’s continued dominance. Singapore retains the top spot, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 193 countries, followed by South Korea (190) and Japan (189). Several European countries — including Germany, Italy, Spain, Luxembourg, and Switzerland — hold joint fourth place with access to 188 destinations.
In stark contrast, India’s limited access to 57 countries places it alongside Mauritania at 85th, far behind regional neighbors like Bhutan (92) and Sri Lanka (98).
Why Did India’s Passport Ranking Drop?
India’s lower ranking this year can be traced to multiple factors. Chief among them is the absence of new visa agreements in the past year, while nations such as Singapore and South Korea continue expanding reciprocal travel arrangements.
“Visa diplomacy plays a big role in how the rankings shift each year,” notes travel analyst Priya Sharma. “Countries that prioritize bilateral agreements and travel partnerships see their rankings climb, while those that don’t may stagnate.”
The decline doesn’t reflect a sudden reduction in actual travel freedom — rather, other nations improving their diplomatic outreach and securing new agreements have moved ahead.
The Broader Impact: Travel and Perception
For Indian travelers, the drop carries practical implications. More destinations now require visas, making international travel more time-consuming and expensive. Business travelers and frequent flyers face additional administrative burdens.
The index also subtly shapes perceptions of national influence and stability. A strong passport often reflects robust diplomacy, trusted governance, and strong reciprocal relations — all factors that boost global confidence in a nation’s citizens.
Looking Ahead: Rebuilding Mobility and Access
Experts suggest that India can rebuild its ranking through targeted diplomatic efforts and strategic mobility partnerships. Initiatives to expand visa-free travel with ASEAN, Africa, and Latin America could significantly improve global access.
“India’s tourism and business communities would benefit enormously if policymakers prioritize reciprocal visa negotiations,” says Sharma. “It’s not just about travel — it’s about how the world views India’s openness, security, and global integration.”
The Global Context
As India’s passport slips, even major powers are facing changes. The United States dropped out of the top 10 for the first time, ranking 12th with visa-free access to 180 countries — a sign that global passport dynamics are becoming increasingly competitive.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan continues to hold the weakest ranking, allowing access to just 24 nations.
