Global ranking of South African passport improves - Implications for travelers explained
In a significant leap forward, South Africa's passport has been upgraded on the Henley Passport Index, moving up three spots to rank globally for the year 2025. This index, created by Henley & Partners, is the only one of its kind based on data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA).
The Henley Passport Index ranks global passports based on visa-free destinations, and for 2025, South Africa's passport now grants its holders access to 103 different travel destinations. This improvement marks a notable change in the passport's power, as it has moved from the 51st position among 199 different passports to the 48th position.
Europe dominates the list of the most powerful passports, with many countries sharing high ranks due to the Schengen Area access and strong diplomatic ties. Singapore, however, holds the top spot for the second consecutive year, offering visa-free access to 193 destinations. Japan and South Korea follow closely, tied for second place with visa-free access to 190 destinations.
The top five most powerful passports, according to the latest Henley Passport Index for 2025, are:
- Singapore – Visa-free access to 193 destinations (rank 1)
- Japan and South Korea (tied) – Visa-free access to 190 destinations (rank 2)
- Seven EU nations (tied): Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain – Visa-free access to 189 destinations (rank 3)
- Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden (tied) – Visa-free access to 188 destinations (rank 4)
- Greece, Switzerland, New Zealand – Visa-free access to slightly fewer destinations, rounding out the top 5 (rank 5)
The Henley Passport Index includes 227 different travel destinations, making it a comprehensive tool for understanding global travel freedom. With this latest upgrade, South Africa's passport holders can look forward to increased opportunities for travel and international connections.
[1] Henley & Partners. (n.d.). Henley Passport Index. Retrieved from https://www.henleyglobal.com/research/henley-passport-index/ [2] BBC News. (2021, October 5). Singapore tops Henley Passport Index for sixth consecutive year. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-58877478
- With the enhancements in their passport's power, South Africa's citizens may now explore a broader range of finance and lifestyle opportunities in more travel destinations.
- South Africa's significant progress in the Henley Passport Index, counting 103 visa-free destinations, allows South African industry leaders to strengthen their diplomatic ties and forge partnerships globally.
