Canada’s Passport Remains Strong As US Falls To All-Time Low
On This Page You Will Find
- Canada’s current passport ranking and visa-free access
- Comparison with past performance
- Top 10 global passport list
- Insights into the U.S. passport’s decline
- Key global mobility trends
Canada remains among the world’s top 10 most powerful passports, according to the latest Henley Passport Index. The October 2025 update places Canada in ninth position, with visa-free access to 183 destinations worldwide.
This marks a small decline from July 2025, when Canada ranked eighth with access to 184 destinations. While the change is minor, it reflects growing competition among nations as global travel access continues to expand and shift.
How the Index Works
The Henley Passport Index evaluates 199 passports against 227 destinations, using data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). A country’s ranking depends primarily on the number of destinations its citizens can enter without a prior visa.
Canada’s Position
Canada’s passport remains a symbol of high global mobility. The country’s ranking has been relatively stable for years, though it has gradually slipped from its peak of second place in 2014. This year’s ninth-place position still secures Canada’s spot among the world’s most privileged travel documents and shows the draw of Canadian citizenship.
The Decline of the U.S. Passport
The latest index highlights a striking fall in the power of the U.S. passport. For the first time since the Henley Passport Index was created 20 years ago, the United States has dropped out of the top 10, landing in 12th place with visa-free access to 180 destinations.
A decade ago, in 2014, the U.S. passport ranked first in the world. Since then, its mobility has steadily declined, driven by reduced visa reciprocity and fewer new access agreements with other countries. Political and policy shifts have also contributed to a perception of reduced openness.
Experts note that global mobility has become more finely balanced, and small access changes can lead to significant movement in rankings. Countries embracing cooperation and bilateral agreements tend to gain ground, while those perceived as more insular risk falling behind.
Top 10 Most Powerful Passports – October 2025
- Singapore – 193 destinations
- South Korea – 190 destinations
- Japan – 189 destinations
- Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, Switzerland – 188 destinations
- Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, Netherlands – 187 destinations
- Greece, Hungary, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sweden – 186 destinations
- Australia, Czechia, Malta, Poland – 185 destinations
- Croatia, Estonia, Slovakia, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom – 184 destinations
- Canada – 183 destinations
- Latvia – 182 destinations
Global Trends
The 2025 rankings show Asia’s growing dominance in global mobility. Singapore, South Korea, and Japan now occupy the top three spots, reflecting their success in expanding visa-free access through diplomacy and reciprocal agreements.
Meanwhile, Western nations like the U.S. and U.K. have experienced gradual declines, signalling shifting global dynamics in travel freedom and international cooperation.
FAQ
What does Canada’s ninth-place passport ranking mean?
It means Canadians can travel to 183 destinations without applying for a visa in advance. This high ranking reflects the strong diplomatic relationships and global standing of Canada.
Why did Canada’s ranking drop from eighth to ninth?
Canada’s ranking slipped slightly because some other countries gained new visa-free access agreements. The number of destinations for Canadians fell by one, from 184 to 183.
Why has the U.S. passport fallen out of the top 10?
The U.S. lost visa-free access to several destinations and has been slower to secure new agreements. Reduced reciprocity and a more restrictive visa policy have contributed to its fall to 12th place.
How does Canada compare to the U.S.?
Canada remains ahead of the United States, offering access to three more destinations. The U.S. passport now provides visa-free entry to 180 destinations, compared with Canada’s 183.
What trends are shaping global passport rankings?
Global rankings now reflect diplomatic openness and cooperation. Countries expanding reciprocal travel arrangements tend to climb, while those with restrictive policies or reduced engagement risk falling in rank.
