We have been hearing news about the increasing list of countries offering visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival access to Indians. So, how strong is the Indian passport? And which is the strongest passport in the world? Read on to learn more about passport diplomacy and its meaning for Indians. And if you are looking for a passport agent in Chennai, visit Vaigai Wings the best travel agency in Chennai.
What Does A Strong Passport Mean?
A strong passport indicates the issuing country’s political, diplomatic, and economic prowess. It means that people from strong passport-holding countries contribute to tourism and are less likely to manipulate a country’s asylum policy or stay illegally in the country. Strong passports allow greater freedom to travel and access to a wide range of destinations without worrying about visa approval.
3 Of the World’s Strongest Passport Holding Countries
1. France, Germany, Italy, Singapore, Spain
These are the top 5 countries allowed visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 194 countries worldwide. The list was put forth by the Henley Passport Index 2024. Singapore, a relatively new country, does not carry cultural or historical baggage, and hence, its people don’t find the need to move out of the country. It is viewed as a friendly country that doesn’t take sides, and its people are happy to live in Singapore.
The same applies to European countries like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. They’re so rooted in their cultural identities that citizens of these countries are rarely ever likely to misuse their freedom.
2. Finland, South Korea, and Sweden
Each of these countries is allowed visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 193 countries. These countries have moved one place up the list since last year, with access to 190 countries in 2023. Thanks to their robust economy and friendly diplomacy, they have always had a historically strong passport. In fact, Finland is the most powerful among Nordic countries.
3. Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and Netherlands
Each of these countries offers visa-free access and visa-on-arrival access to over 192 countries. They have moved one place up the list since 2023, with access to 189 countries last year. Again, each of these countries has a historically strong passport thanks to their robust economy and high quality of life.
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The World’s Weakest Passport Holding Countries
Needless to say, the world’s most conflict-prone zone features on this list. It is interesting to note how these places are victims of terrorism or armed conflict.
Afghanistan
Citizens of Afghanistan are offered visa-free entry to only 28 destinations across the world. This is, however, better than last year when it had easy access to only 26 countries. It also does not have a welcoming visa policy and does not permit visa-free access for any country.
Syria
It’s not hard to imagine why this war-torn country is allowed entry to only 29 countries. This again, is better than last year when it had visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 28 destinations.
Iraq
Thanks to its internal strife and armed conflict, Iraq unsurprisingly features third on this list, with access to 31 destinations. Last year, Iraq was allowed visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to 29 countries. Political instability, poverty, and social complications compound the fear of the country.
How Strong Is the Indian Passport?
India ranks 80th on the list of the world’s most powerful passports. Indians are allowed to travel to over 62 countries without a visa. We share this rank with Uzbekistan. Several countries were added recently to this list thanks to the Indian government’s strong diplomatic policies and the increasing number of jet-setting Indians looking to explore the world around them.
Looking For an Experienced Passport Agent in Chennai?
Visit Vaigai Wings if you are looking for an experienced passport consultant in Chennai. Since 1987, we have been authorised Chennai passport agent, having served over 50,000 clients across India. Our expertise is expediting the application process, scheduling appointments, verifying jurisdiction, and ensuring client-provided information is accurate and meets all requirements.
Call now to schedule a free consultation with a staff at our passport agency in Chennai.