Passports are vital tools for global mobility, determining the ease with which citizens travel without a visa. However, shifts in international rankings highlight the changing dynamics of global access.

According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, only 22 of the world’s 199 passports have seen a decline in rankings over the past decade, with the United States and the United Kingdom among the most notable fallers.

The United States experienced the second-largest drop, falling seven places from 2nd in 2015 to its current position of 9th. Vanuatu follows closely, dropping six places from 48th to 54th. The British passport, which held the top spot in 2015, now ranks 5th. Canada, which previously held the 4th position, has slipped to 7th, completing the list of the top five fallers.

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Annie Pforzheimer, Senior Associate at the Washington think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies, commented on the US decline in the Henley Global Mobility Report 2025 Q1, released alongside the index. She stated, “Even before the advent of a second Trump presidency, American political trends had become notably inward-looking and isolationist. Even though US economic health relies heavily on immigration, tourism, and trade, voters during the 2024 presidential campaign were fed a narrative that America can (and should) stand alone.”

Efforts to improve passport strength hinge on diplomatic relations, political stability, and agreements with other nations. Without significant policy shifts, citizens of countries experiencing these declines face challenges in accessing global opportunities for education, work, and personal connections.

According to the 2025 Henley Passport Index, here are the 10 least powerful passports in the world in 2025

1. Afghanistan – 26 Destinations

Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the ranking with access to just 26 destinations without a visa. The country’s citizens face numerous barriers to international travel, limiting opportunities for work, education, and tourism.

2. Syria – 27 Destinations

Syrians can travel to only 27 destinations visa-free. Ongoing challenges, including restrictions on movement, have significantly affected the passport’s strength.

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3. Iraq – 31 Destinations

Iraq’s passport provides access to 31 destinations. Geopolitical issues and limited international agreements contribute to its position near the bottom of the rankings.

4. Iran – 33 Destinations

Iranian passport holders can travel to 33 destinations without a visa. Global relations and sanctions continue to restrict the mobility of its citizens.

5. Pakistan – 33 Destinations

Pakistan shares the same ranking as Iran, with its citizens having visa-free access to 33 countries. The limited reach impacts travel for education, business, and family connections.

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6. Somalia – 35 Destinations

Somalia’s passport allows visa-free travel to 35 destinations. Political instability and limited diplomatic ties with other nations affect its global standing.

7. Nepal – 39 Destinations

Nepalese passport holders can travel to 39 countries visa-free. Despite its reputation as a popular tourist destination, the country’s citizens face travel restrictions abroad.

8. Palestinian Territories – 40 Destinations

Citizens of the Palestinian Territories have access to 40 destinations without a visa. The political situation and lack of recognition in some countries pose significant challenges.

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9. Libya – 40 Destinations

Libyan passport holders can also access 40 destinations visa-free. Travel limitations stem from ongoing instability and strained international relations.

10. Bangladesh – 40 Destinations

Bangladesh rounds out the list with visa-free access to 40 destinations. Economic challenges and limited international agreements contribute to the passport’s position.