Pakistani passport’s global ranking improves, jumps to 98th place in Henley Index 2026

Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan’s passport has registered a noticeable rise in global standing, securing the 98th position in the Henley Passport Index 2026.

The ranking is produced by the London-based firm Henley & Partners and is based on figures provided by the International Air Transport Association.

According to the latest data, Pakistani passport holders can now travel to 31 destinations with either visa-free entry, a visa on arrival, or an electronic travel authorisation.

Pakistan’s passport ranking improving from 126th to 98th is a strong achievement and this momentum will continue, InshaAllah. https://t.co/2PM0UjNo3F

— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) January 15, 2026

These travel options cover several regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, the Caribbean and Oceania. Among the countries that can be visited without getting a visa beforehand are Caribbean nations such as Barbados and Dominica, African countries like Rwanda and Senegal, and South Pacific islands including Vanuatu and Samoa.

However, at the top of the list, Singapore has once again been ranked the strongest passport in the world for the third year running, allowing its citizens access to 192 destinations without a prior visa. Japan and South Korea are next with 188 destinations, while Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland are tied for the third position.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi welcomed the development, describing it as a positive sign of progress. In a post on X, he said that Pakistan’s move up from 126th to 98th place is a significant achievement and expressed confidence that the upward trend will continue.

In the previous year, Pakistan had been placed at 103rd. The latest improvement reflects steady diplomatic progress and fresh visa agreements that have slightly broadened international travel opportunities for Pakistani citizens.