The new rankings, published on July 21, place India alongside Algeria and Mauritania, with passport holders having visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 55 locations.
India’s ranking declines
India began 2026 at the 85th position before advancing to 75th in the February edition, marking its highest ranking in recent times. However, this upward trend was short-lived. The country dropped to 78th in May and has since lost three additional places to reach 81st.
The latest ranking also indicates a slight decrease in travel access. While Indian passport holders were able to travel to 56 destinations without prior visa requirements in February, the current edition lists 55 places.
How the Henley Passport Index works
The Henley Passport Index evaluates 199 passports based on the number of destinations their holders can enter without a visa in advance. The rankings are created using exclusive information from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and encompass 227 travel destinations globally.
This year’s edition commemorates the index’s 20th anniversary. Over the past twenty years, the average number of destinations accessible without a prior visa has nearly doubled, increasing from 58 in 2006 to 108 in 2026.
Singapore remains on top
Singapore has maintained its status as the world’s most powerful passport, allowing visa-free entry to 192 destinations. Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates share the second spot, each providing access to 188 destinations.
The UAE registered the most significant rise in the latest rankings, moving up three places since January. Sweden is ranked third with access to 187 destinations, while the United States has dropped to 10th place, with visa-free access to 180 locations.
India’s passport ranking over the years
India’s passport ranking has varied significantly over the past twenty years. It rated 71st in 2006, then dropped to 90th in 2021, the lowest during this span. The country improved to 80th in 2024, fell to 85th in 2025, briefly climbed to 75th earlier this year, and currently stands at 81st in the latest edition.
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