In a world where global mobility is increasingly coveted, the release of the Henley Passport Index 2024 edition has garnered significant attention. Based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), the index ranks 199 passports against 227 travel destinations, offering a comprehensive view of global passport power.
One of the key determinants of a passport’s rank on the Henley Index is the number of countries its holders can visit without a visa. The 2024 edition brings notable shifts, with Canada emerging stronger than ever and the U.S. experiencing a slight decline.
Canada’s Passport: Stronger Than Ever
For the first time in several years, Canada’s passport has outranked that of the U.S. on the Henley Index. Climbing from eighth to seventh place, Canadian passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 187 countries, up from 185 last year. This is a significant milestone, as the Canadian passport has consistently ranked lower than the U.S. since the index’s earlier years, except for a tie in 2019 when both countries shared the sixth position.
Despite this improvement, Canadian travelers still face visa requirements for certain countries like Algeria, Venezuela, Afghanistan, Chad, and China, while countries like Cameroon, Vietnam, Egypt, and Benin require an e-visa.
U.S. Passport: A Slight Decline
On the other hand, the U.S. passport has slipped from seventh to eighth place. This is the first time in many years that Canada has outperformed the U.S. in the Henley Index. In 2014, the U.S. shared the top spot with the UK, highlighting how dynamic and competitive passport rankings can be over time.
Global Passport Power Shifts
The 2024 edition of the Henley Passport Index also sees significant changes at the top. Singapore has dethroned Japan, claiming the strongest passport position. The second strongest passports are those of France, Japan, Italy, Spain, and Germany. Seven countries share the third rank: Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden. Meanwhile, Belgium, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom share the fourth spot.
Challenges for the Lowest-Ranking Passports
While many celebrate the increased mobility afforded by strong passports, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges faced by those holding the weakest ones. The access scores for the five lowest-ranking countries indicate that traveling and immigrating can be a complex, lengthy, and often uncertain process. For these passport holders, spontaneous trips are nearly impossible, as they must undergo extensive visa processes and security checks, often without any guarantee of approval.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of U.S. Politics
Annie Pforzheimer, a former career diplomat with the U.S. State Department and a senior non-resident associate at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, highlighted concerns about the potential impact of the upcoming U.S. election on global mobility. She noted that business groups in immigration- and tourism-dependent industries are particularly worried about measures likely to be imposed under a second Trump administration, which could include ending the Temporary Protected Status regime and rolling back the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status. These changes could result in mass deportations affecting up to one million people.
Conclusion: Celebrating Mobility While Recognizing Challenges
As we celebrate the improved rankings and increased mobility for many passport holders, it’s crucial to remain aware of the ongoing challenges faced by those with less powerful passports. The Henley Passport Index continues to serve as a vital reference tool for global citizens and sovereign states, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of global mobility.
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