U.S. Falls Out of World’s Top 10 Most Powerful Passports for the First Time, Here’s the Updated List

For the first time in over two decades, the United States passport has fallen out of the world’s top ten most powerful passports, according to the 2025 Henley Passport Index. The index, which ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can visit without a prior visa, shows that the U.S. passport now sits at the 12th position, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 180 destinations. This marks a significant shift in global mobility power, with Asian and European nations now leading the rankings.

At the top of the list, Singapore continues to hold the most powerful passport in the world, granting visa-free access to 193 destinations. South Korea follows in second place with 190 destinations, while Japan ranks third with 189. Germany, Italy, and Spain also feature prominently, offering access to more than 185 destinations each. Rounding out the top ten are Switzerland, Finland, Sweden, and France, all maintaining strong travel privileges due to consistent diplomatic relations and open-border policies.

Experts suggest that the U.S. drop in ranking is a result of changing international policies and reciprocity issues. Countries such as Brazil, China, and Vietnam have recently withdrawn visa-free entry for American travelers, while the U.S. itself has maintained stricter entry requirements for foreigners. These policy shifts have limited the number of reciprocal visa agreements and affected the overall standing of the American passport.

According to Henley & Partners Chairman Christian H. Kaelin, this decline reflects a global transformation in soft power and mobility. He noted that nations embracing openness and collaboration are gaining an advantage in global travel freedom. The data also show that Asian countries have strengthened their position through diplomatic outreach and visa partnerships, signaling a shift in the balance of global influence.

Despite slipping out of the top tier, the U.S. passport remains one of the strongest globally, still granting access to most key destinations. However, its relative decline highlights how rapidly global mobility is evolving. Analysts believe that the U.S. could regain its position if it renews visa agreements and improves travel reciprocity with partner nations.

The 2025 Henley Passport Index underscores how mobility has become a vital symbol of international cooperation and power. As Asian countries continue to expand their reach and European nations maintain their stability, the definition of global influence is changing from military and economic strength to the freedom of movement that a passport can provide.