Japan holds the world's most powerful passport

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Japan holds the world's most powerful passport

In early October, Myanmar exempted Japanese citizens from visa requirements, increasing the total number of visa-free countries for Japan to 190.

Japan holds the world's most powerful passport

According to the Henley Passport Index by global residence and citizenship advisory firm Henley & Partners, Japan currently holds the most powerful passport in the world. This achievement has helped Japan surpass Singapore, which ranks second with visa-free access to 189 countries.

Compared to the January rankings, Germany maintains its top position. However, the country has now slipped to third place with visa-free access to 188 countries. Tied with Germany are France (up one spot from the May rankings) and South Korea.

Ranked fourth are Denmark, Finland, Italy, Sweden, and Spain with access to 187 countries and destinations. Following are 7 countries including the UK, Austria, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, the US, and Norway with 186.

Belgium, Switzerland, Ireland, and Canada maintain their 6th position with a total of 185, while Australia, Greece, and Malta hold the 7th spot with access to 183 countries.

In Asia, besides Singapore, only Malaysia made it to the top 10 of the ranking with visa-free access to 180 countries.

Recent changes in visa policies in some countries have led to shifts in the rankings.

For instance, while Japan and Singapore were granted visa exemptions back in February, Uzbekistan tightened visa requirements for French citizens on October 5th. Also in the same month, Malaysia waived visa requirements for South Koreans.

By not joining any new legal areas this year, the US and the UK seem unable to reclaim the top spot they held in 2015.

Meanwhile, Russia dropped to 47th place despite Taiwan agreeing to waive visa requirements for its citizens back in September.

The United Arab Emirates remains the greatest success story of this decade when it comes to freedom of movement. The Middle Eastern nation has risen from 62nd place in 2006 to its current 21st position. Moreover, it has also secured visa waiver agreements with Russia, set to take effect in the coming months.

Chinese citizens are granted visa waivers in St. Lucia and Myanmar, now ranking 71st, up 14 spots since the beginning of 2017.

Christian H. Kalin, Chairman of Henley & Partners Group, applauds the outstanding results achieved by nations working together to build a more connected and cooperative world.

Granting visa waivers to citizens of another country reflects the trust this nation has in the other. A nation that receives visa waivers from many others not only demonstrates domestic social progress but also shows efforts in building diplomatic relations.

In the rankings for May of this year, Japan has surpassed Singapore to become the world's most powerful passport holder with visa-free access to 189 countries.

Previously, in the January rankings, Japan tied with the UK for 3rd place with visa-free access to 175 countries. Besides its appealing destinations, the deeply humanitarian values of the Japanese people also attract international visitors to this country.

According to Kim Ngân/Zing news

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References: Travel guide Mytour

MytourNovember 1, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of having a powerful passport like Japan's?

Having a powerful passport like Japan's offers numerous benefits, including visa-free access to 190 countries, facilitating easier travel for citizens. This can enhance personal and business opportunities, as well as promote international cooperation and cultural exchange.

How does Japan's passport rank compared to other countries?

Japan currently holds the top position as the world's most powerful passport, granting visa-free access to 190 countries. It surpasses Singapore, which ranks second with access to 189 countries, highlighting Japan's strong diplomatic relations globally.

Why did some countries change their visa policies recently?

Recent changes in visa policies by various countries are often motivated by the desire to strengthen diplomatic relations and enhance tourism. For instance, Myanmar exempted Japanese citizens from visa requirements to foster closer ties with Japan.

Which country has made significant progress in passport rankings recently?

The United Arab Emirates has made significant progress in passport rankings, rising from 62nd place in 2006 to 21st place currently. This achievement reflects the country's successful efforts in establishing visa waiver agreements and enhancing global mobility.

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