Pakistan has ranked 100th in the latest Henley Passport Index, with Pakistani passport holders currently enjoying visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 30 destinations worldwide.

The latest ranking places Pakistan among the world’s weakest passports, ahead of only Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan. The Henley Passport Index compares 199 passports across 227 destinations and ranks countries according to the number of places citizens can access without obtaining a prior visa.

Although Pakistan remains near the bottom of the rankings, the country has shown gradual improvement over recent years. Pakistan climbed to 98th place earlier this year after ranking 103rd in 2025.

However, the latest May 2026 update pushed the country slightly lower to 100th position.

According to the index, Pakistani citizens had visa-free access to 32 destinations in February this year after The Gambia restored travel access arrangements. The number has now declined to 30 because of ongoing changes in international visa policies and bilateral agreements.

Asian Passports Continue Dominating Global Rankings

The latest rankings once again highlighted the growing strength of Asian passports in global mobility. Singapore retained the world’s most powerful passport position. Passport holders from Singapore continue enjoying access to the highest number of destinations globally without prior visas.

Japan, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates shared second place in the rankings. Sweden emerged as the highest-ranked European nation at third place. A group of European countries, including France, Germany, Italy and Netherlands, tied for fourth position. The United States ranked tenth in the latest index.

Analysts say passport rankings increasingly reflect diplomatic influence, economic strength and international security cooperation.

Regional Competition and Travel Challenges Continue

India also experienced a decline in the latest rankings. India dropped from 75th place earlier this year to 78th position in the current index.

Travel experts say global visa rules continue shifting because of geopolitical tensions, migration concerns and changing bilateral relations. Pakistan has sought to improve international mobility for its citizens through diplomatic engagement and upgraded passport security systems.

Authorities have also expanded e-passport initiatives and digital identity measures in recent years. However, analysts note that broader improvements in travel freedom often depend on stronger diplomatic ties, economic stability and international confidence in migration controls.

For millions of Pakistanis seeking opportunities abroad for education, employment and tourism, passport strength remains closely linked to global mobility and economic access.

The latest rankings underline how international travel freedom continues to vary sharply across regions despite growing global connectivity.