Why this matters now
It is a classic “publisher + what it measures” Prelims item and a soft-power talking point. It refreshes regularly through the year, so always quote the latest edition and India’s current rank and visa-free count.
Who publishes it
The index is published by Henley & Partners, a global residence-and-citizenship advisory firm, using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
How it is measured
Each passport is scored by the number of destinations its holders can access visa-free or with visa-on-arrival / electronic travel authority. The higher the visa-free count, the stronger the passport and the higher the rank. It reflects a country’s diplomatic relations and reciprocity, not its wealth alone.
India and the toppers
In 2025, Singapore topped the index, with Japan and several European countries close behind. India ranked around 80th, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to roughly 55-60 destinations — an improving trend as India signs more visa-waiver and visa-on-arrival arrangements. (The exact rank shifts through the year — check the latest update.)
UPSC angle
For Prelims, remember the publisher (Henley & Partners, IATA data) and that it measures visa-free access. This is an annual page — update India’s rank and the topper each edition.
Frequently asked questions
Who publishes the Henley Passport Index?
Henley & Partners, using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
What does the Henley Passport Index measure?
The number of destinations a passport’s holders can enter without a prior visa (visa-free or visa-on-arrival/eTA).
What was India’s rank in 2025?
India ranked around 80th, with visa-free access to roughly 55-60 destinations. (The figure is updated through the year.)
Which is the world’s strongest passport?
Singapore held the top position in 2025.