In an era of rapid geopolitical transformation, the passport has evolved into a primary symbol of national soft power and diplomatic stability. The latest Henley Passport Index reveals a significant redistribution of global mobility: the ascent of Asian and Middle Eastern powers, contrasted by a relative decline among Western nations. This trend is progressively carving out a new international order and reshaping the global landscape of movement.
The number of visa-free destinations a passport offers reflects the level of international trust and cooperation, and directly affects how easily individuals can connect with the world. (Photo via unsplash.com)
TAIPEI, TAIWAN (MERXWIRE) – In the modern landscape of lifestyle planning, international travel has transcended leisure, becoming a vital component of professional careers, global education, and cross-border living. The ability to fly to Tokyo, Paris, or Singapore at a moment’s notice depends on more than financial means; it is determined by the “freedom of movement” granted by one’s passport. Passport power is no longer merely a travel convenience—it is a definitive indicator of a nation’s international standing and credibility.
According to the January 2026 Henley Passport Index released by the renowned consultancy Henley & Partners, the latest results of this global mobility race highlight a shifting diplomatic map.
This benchmark ranking is compiled by Henley & Partners based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The index is updated monthly and rigorously evaluates 199 passports across 227 travel destinations. Rankings are determined by the number of destinations holders can access without a prior visa. Due to its high precision, the index has become the authoritative standard for global political and economic observers to measure cross-border mobility.
Asian nations have once again demonstrated formidable diplomatic influence. With an extraordinary reach of 192 visa-free (or visa-on-arrival) destinations, Singapore has secured the title of the “World’s Most Powerful Passport” for the third consecutive year.
Japan and South Korea remain remarkably stable, tying for second place with access to 188 destinations. They are followed by traditional European powers—Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland—which share third place, each with access to 186 countries.
Taiwan’s passport performance in 2026 is particularly noteworthy. According to the latest data, Taiwan ranks 33rd globally, with 139 visa-free destinations, up three spots from the end of 2025.
This upward trend offers a significant “travel dividend” for citizens. Tourism experts argue that stronger passports translate directly into lower travel costs. Travellers can bypass tedious visa application processes for the most popular destinations, saving thousands in fees and avoiding weeks of processing time, thereby making “flexible travel” a reality.
In contrast, the United Kingdom and the United States—which shared the top spot in 2014—showed relatively stagnant performance in 2026. The UK slipped to seventh place (182 destinations), marking one of the year’s most significant declines. While the US returned to the top 10 (179 destinations), its long-term trajectory remains slightly downward.
Conversely, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as the most powerful “dark horse” in recent years. Over the past two decades, the UAE has surged 57 places in the rankings, breaking into fifth place (184 destinations) this year, further signalling a pivot in global passport power dynamics.
Ultimately, passport rankings are more than just cold statistics; they fundamentally determine how quickly individuals can connect with the world. As the number of visa-free destinations increases, it signals a rise in mutual trust between nations. When bureaucratic hurdles no longer hinder cross-border travel and business, it provides every traveller with greater flexibility, more diverse planning options, and a broader global perspective.