India’s passport has been ranked 78th globally in the latest Henley Passport Index 2026, reflecting a decline in its global mobility ranking.
According to the index, Indian passport holders currently enjoy visa-free, visa-on-arrival or electronic travel authorisation access to 56 destinations worldwide.
The Henley Passport Index is regarded as one of the world’s most recognised rankings measuring the travel freedom offered by passports of different countries.
Top Ranked Countries in 2026
According to the Henley Passport Index:
Singapore – 192 destinations
Japan and South Korea – 188 destinations
Several European nations including Germany and France remain among top performers.
India’s Position in South Asia
India ranks above:
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Afghanistan
Maldives continues to hold the strongest passport position in South Asia.
What is the Henley Passport Index?
Henley & Partners publishes the Henley Passport Index using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The ranking measures the number of destinations passport holders can access without obtaining a prior visa.
Types of Access Counted in the Index
The index considers:
Visa-free travel
Visa-on-arrival
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
E-visa facilities in some cases
Reasons Affecting Passport Strength
Passport rankings are influenced by:
Diplomatic relations
Bilateral visa agreements
International security perceptions
Foreign policy and strategic partnerships
Economic and geopolitical stability
A stronger passport generally reflects:
Better international mobility
Greater diplomatic outreach
Improved global trust and connectivity.
International Air Transport Association (IATA):
Established in 1945
Headquarters: Montreal, Canada
Director General: Willie Walsh
Represents global airlines and supports aviation standards and policies.
A passport is:
An official government-issued travel document
Used for international travel and identity verification
Issued in India by the Ministry of External Affairs
Types of Indian Passports
India issues mainly three categories of passports:
Blue Passport – Ordinary citizens
White Passport – Government officials
Maroon Passport – Diplomats and senior government officials.
Passport Seva Programme:
Implemented by the Ministry of External Affairs.
Provides online passport services across India.
Operates through Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs).
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