India’s passport has climbed to the 75th position in the latest edition of the Henley Passport Index, improving from 85th place last year and marking a notable gain in global mobility. The updated ranking means Indian passport holders can now travel to 56 countries without obtaining a visa in advance, either through visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival access.
The index, which ranks passports worldwide based on the number of destinations their holders can enter without a prior visa, reflects shifts in diplomatic relations, bilateral agreements and global travel norms.
Government officials have welcomed the development, calling it a positive outcome of India’s expanding international engagement and sustained diplomatic efforts. The latest figures signal both progress and the continuing need to strengthen travel partnerships to further ease mobility for Indian citizens.
A Decade of Fluctuation, A Year of Progress
India’s jump of 10 places represents one of its more significant improvements in recent years. With access to 56 destinations visa-free or via visa-on-arrival, Indian travellers now enjoy comparatively smoother entry procedures for tourism, business trips, academic pursuits and cultural exchanges. The index draws on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), widely regarded as a reliable authority on global travel documentation and airline data.
Officials from the Ministry of External Affairs have described the improvement as a reflection of India’s growing diplomatic footprint and expanding bilateral ties. They have emphasised that sustained engagement with partner nations, economic cooperation, and India’s increasing relevance in global trade and geopolitics have contributed to greater trust and reciprocal travel arrangements. While the rise to 75th position is being celebrated, policymakers have also acknowledged that there remains significant room for improvement when compared to leading passports.
For Indian citizens, the change translates into tangible convenience. Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel reduces paperwork, processing times and costs, making international trips more accessible. Students seeking overseas education, entrepreneurs exploring new markets, and families planning holidays may all benefit from simplified travel requirements. However, experts caution that the ranking is dynamic and influenced by global policy shifts, underscoring the importance of sustained diplomatic outreach to maintain and improve mobility gains.
How the Index Works and India’s Global Standing
The Henley Passport Index compares passports across the world based on the number of destinations accessible without obtaining a visa in advance. A higher ranking indicates broader travel freedom and often reflects strong diplomatic relationships, economic stability, and reciprocal agreements between nations.
Countries at the top of the list enjoy entry to nearly 190 or more destinations without prior visa approvals. For instance, Singapore continues to hold one of the strongest passports globally, granting its citizens access to a vast majority of destinations with minimal restrictions.
India’s ranking has fluctuated over the years, influenced by shifting visa policies, global health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and changing geopolitical landscapes. At its historical peak, India reached 71st position in 2006. Subsequent years saw both improvements and setbacks, often reflecting broader international developments rather than purely domestic factors. The recent rise suggests a recovery trajectory after periods of decline, particularly during years marked by tighter global border controls.
Analysts note that passport strength is not solely about prestige. It often correlates with economic opportunities, business expansion, diaspora engagement and cross-border collaboration. Nations with stronger passports typically benefit from increased global integration, smoother trade relationships and stronger people-to-people ties. For emerging economies like India, incremental gains in passport mobility are seen as both symbolic and practical milestones.
Furthermore, visa policies worldwide are evolving, with some countries reassessing entry requirements to attract tourism and investment. In this context, India’s improved standing may also reflect strategic partnerships and regional cooperation initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
A passport is more than a travel document; it is a symbol of a nation’s relationships with the world. India’s climb in global rankings is a welcome development, signalling deeper engagement and mutual trust between nations. Yet mobility should not merely be viewed as a competition of numbers.
At its heart, easier travel enables cultural exchange, shared learning and human connection. When students cross borders to study, when entrepreneurs explore new markets, and when families experience different cultures, they build bridges that transcend politics.
