Passport Paradox
India’s rise on the global economic stage is often celebrated as an emblem of national resurgence.
India’s passport has moved up to 75th place in the latest Henley Passport Index. That is a jump of 10 spots from last year, when it stood at 85th. Indian passport holders can now travel to 56 countries without obtaining a visa in advance.
The rise signals improved travel access after two years of decline. But India has not yet returned to its best-ever position. The country had reached 71st rank in 2006.
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What the ranking reflects
The Henley Passport Index measures how many destinations a passport holder can enter visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access. A higher number means easier global mobility.
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India had slipped to 80th in 2024. It fell further to 85th after that. The latest ranking suggests a partial recovery.
For travellers, the key figure is 56. That is the number of destinations currently open without a prior visa requirement.
Global leaders remain unchanged
Singapore continues to top the list, with access to 192 destinations.
Japan and South Korea share second place with 187 destinations each. Sweden and the United Arab Emirates follow with 186.
France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Switzerland are placed next with access to 185 destinations. Austria, Greece, Malta and Portugal follow close behind.
Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada and New Zealand also remain among the top 10.
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