Pakistan’s passport has ranked 101st in the Henley Passport Index 2026, highlighting the country’s continued struggle to improve global travel mobility despite a slight recovery from its lowest-ever position recorded just a few years ago.
According to the 20th anniversary edition of the globally recognized passport rankings, Pakistani passport holders currently enjoy access to 29 destinations through visa-free, visa-on-arrival (VOA), or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) arrangements.
Although Pakistan has climbed from its record low of 113th place in 2021, the latest ranking still reflects a significant decline compared to two decades ago, when the country’s passport ranked 79th globally in 2006.
Pakistan Passport Ranking Over the Years
The Henley Passport Index shows that Pakistan’s passport has experienced a steady decline over the last 20 years, with only modest improvements in recent editions.
The country’s ranking has changed as follows:
- 2006: 79th
- 2011: 99th
- 2015: 107th
- 2021: 113th (Lowest Ranking)
- 2024: 101st
- 2025: 103rd
- 2026: 101st
During 2026, Pakistan’s position also fluctuated throughout the year. It ranked 98th in January, improved to 97th in February, slipped to 100th in May, and eventually settled at 101st in the latest July rankings.
Countries Pakistanis Can Visit Without a Regular Visa
Pakistani passport holders currently have simplified entry access to 29 destinations around the world.
This includes:
- 11 visa-free destinations
- 15 visa-on-arrival destinations
- 3 destinations offering Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Asian Destinations
In Asia, Pakistani citizens can travel to Cambodia, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka (ETA), and Timor-Leste without obtaining a traditional visa before departure.
African Destinations
Several African countries also offer easier access to Pakistani travelers, including Burundi, Comoro Islands, Djibouti, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya (ETA), Madagascar, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles (ETA), and Sierra Leone.
Americas and Caribbean
In the Americas and Caribbean region, Pakistanis can visit Barbados, Dominica, Haiti, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago under visa-free or simplified entry arrangements.
Pacific Islands
Several Pacific island nations also remain accessible to Pakistani travelers, including Cook Islands, Micronesia, Montserrat, Niue, Palau, Samoa, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
However, no European country currently offers visa-free, visa-on-arrival, or ETA access to Pakistani passport holders under the latest Henley Passport Index.
E-Visa Options Continue to Expand
While visa-free travel remains limited, Pakistani citizens can apply online for e-visas to a growing number of countries.
These include destinations such as the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Thailand, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Georgia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Qatar, making international travel more convenient despite the passport’s lower ranking.
Singapore Retains World’s Strongest Passport
Globally, Singapore retained its position as the world’s most powerful passport in 2026, offering access to 192 destinations without requiring a traditional visa.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates continued its remarkable rise, securing joint second place alongside Japan and South Korea, with access to 188 destinations worldwide.
According to the Henley Passport Index, passport strength increasingly reflects a country’s diplomatic relations, economic influence, international stability, and global partnerships.
Although Pakistan has shown slight improvement since reaching its lowest ranking in 2021, experts believe sustained diplomatic engagement and stronger international cooperation will be essential for significantly improving the country’s global travel access in the years ahead.
Also read: Pakistan Passport Falls to 101st in Latest Henley Passport Index
