Pakistan has been ranked as the fourth weakest passport globally, placing 96th in the 2025 Henley Passport Index. The country shares this position with Somalia and Yemen, both of which are heavily affected by conflict, highlighting Pakistan’s ongoing challenges with global mobility.
According to the latest rankings by Henley & Partners, a UK-based global citizenship consultancy, Pakistani passport holders can access only 32 destinations without needing a visa in advance, either visa-free or visa-on-arrival.
This places Pakistan behind most of its South Asian neighbors.
Why Pakistan’s Passport Is Struggling
Pakistan continues to face significant international criticism over its:
Sluggish economic growth
Persistent financial instability
Concerns over terrorism links, particularly following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack
Despite attempts at reform and outreach, the country has struggled to improve its global image, attract foreign investment, and build international trust. Its placement on global watchlists especially those focused on terror financing has only made diplomatic travel and trade more difficult.
Internally, Pakistan is grappling with:
High inflation
Dwindling foreign reserves
Dependence on foreign bailouts
Energy shortages and unemployment
Security concerns are especially pressing in provinces like Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where militant activity and insurgency remain common. Civil unrest, censorship, and deepening religious and ethnic divides have also undermined reconciliation and democratic progress.
While Pakistan lags behind, India moved up eight places, now ranking 77th, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 destinations.
World’s Most Powerful Passport: Singapore Tops the List
Singapore has once again claimed the top spot in the 2025 Henley Passport Index. Its citizens can now travel to 193 destinations without needing a visa in advance, the highest in the world.
Japan and South Korea are tied for second place.
Several EU countries like Germany, France, and Italy are tied for third.
