Pakistani Passport Ranked 4th Worst Globally for
Fourth Consecutive Year
According to the latest Henley Passport Index, the Pakistani passport has been ranked as the fourth worst in the world for the fourth consecutive year. This ranking is based on the number of destinations that passport holders can access without prior visa requirements.
Current Rankings and Visa-Free Access
The 2024 Henley Passport Index, which evaluates 199 countries, placed Pakistan's passport at the 100th spot, alongside Yemen, with visa-free access to only 33 countries. The only countries ranked lower are Iraq (101st), Syria (102nd), and Afghanistan (103rd), which offers visa-free access to just 26 destinations, the lowest in the index's 19-year history.
Global Passport Powerhouses
On the other end of the spectrum, Singapore retained the top spot, with its passport granting visa-free access to 195 destinations. This is followed by Germany, Italy, Japan, France, and Spain, each allowing visa-free entry to 192 countries. Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden are ranked third, with access to 191 destinations.
The United Kingdom shares the fourth position with Belgium, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, and Switzerland, offering visa-free travel to 190 states. The United States holds the eighth rank, with access to 186 destinations.
UAE's Ascent in Passport Rankings
A notable highlight in this year's index is the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which made its debut in the top 10. The UAE passport now provides visa-free access to 185 destinations, a remarkable increase of 152 since the index began in 2006. This rise has moved the UAE from 62nd to 9th position in the rankings.
Henley & Partners CEO Juerg Steffen attributes the UAE's "meteoric ascent" to the government's deliberate efforts to position the country as a global hub for business, tourism, and investment. The correlation between a country's visa-free score and its economic prosperity was emphasized, noting that nations with higher scores tend to have greater GDP per capita, increased foreign direct investment, and stronger international trade relationships.
Comparison with Indian Passport
In comparison, the Indian passport ranks significantly higher than the Pakistani passport. According to the same Henley Passport Index, the Indian passport is ranked 80th, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 destinations. This ranking reflects India's stronger international relations and economic standing, providing its citizens with greater global mobility.
Conclusion
The Henley Passport Index serves as a barometer of global mobility, reflecting the ease with which citizens can travel internationally. The rankings highlight the disparities in passport strength and underscore the impact of national policies on global mobility. The UAE's rise and Pakistan's continued low ranking illustrate the broader socio-economic and geopolitical factors influencing these outcomes.
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