Indian Passport Now Ranked 77th With Access to 59 Visa-Free Countries in 2025!

India just made a significant move in the global mobility game. According to the Henley Passport Index July 2025 update, the Indian passport now ranks 77th, up from 85th earlier this year. This marks the biggest jump by any country in the last six months.

The upgrade is tied to India’s expanded visa-free access, which now includes 59 countries, up by two from the previous count. While the total may seem modest compared to top-ranking nations, this is India’s strongest position on the index so far and a sign of increasing global access for Indian citizens.

Why the Ranking Matters

The Henley Passport Index assesses passports based on the number of destinations holders can visit without a prior visa. India’s current tally of 59 destinations grants Indian travellers unprecedented flexibility for spontaneous and worry-free international trips.

The Big Picture: Global Mobility Is Shifting

Here’s the thing: the rise in India’s ranking is part of a bigger trend. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, China, and India are fast catching up with the traditional Western powers when it comes to passport strength.

• Singapore tops the list with access to 193 destinations.
• Japan and South Korea follow closely with 190.
• Seven EU countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, tie for third place.
• The UK is now in 6th, and the US is hanging on at 10th, its weakest position yet.

So, while India is still behind the leaders, it’s moving in the right direction. That momentum matters.

Why This Matters for Indian Travellers

More visa-free access means easier, cheaper, and faster travel. No more long waits for visa appointments or stressful paperwork, at least for these 59 destinations. It also opens doors for more spontaneous travel, last-minute business trips, and smoother transit.

Full List: 59 Countries You Can Visit Visa-Free with an Indian Passport (2025)

Travellers holding an Indian passport can jet off to these 59 destinations without a prior visa or with visa-on-arrival/e-visa access:

Entry conditions, length of stay, and documentation requirements may vary by destination. Always check with the respective embassy or consulate before travel.

What’s Fueling These Changes?

Much of this shift comes from improved diplomatic relations, regional agreements, and India’s growing global influence.

Other fast movers on the index include:

• UAE: Shot up from 42nd to 8th in the past decade.
• China: Jumped 34 places, now at 60th, thanks to new visa waiver agreements with over 75 countries.

Asia-Pacific countries are also driving travel demand, according to IATA. In the first five months of 2025, airlines from the region saw 9.5% growth, far outpacing North America.

Final Takeaway

India’s improved passport ranking is more than just a number. It reflects increasing travel freedom, international trust, and diplomatic clout. While there’s still a long way to go before catching up to the likes of Singapore or Japan, Indian travellers now have more choices and fewer barriers than ever before.