The International Organisation Henley Passport Index has released its latest ranking of the world’s most powerful passports, placing Singapore once again at the top.

According to the report, Singaporean passport holders can travel to 192 countries without a visa, the highest access globally.

Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates are jointly ranked second, with visa-free access to 187 countries.

Norway and Switzerland also appear among the strongest passports, offering access to 185 destinations.

The report says European countries generally dominate the rankings, with the European Union average standing at 183 visa-free destinations, equal to countries such as Malaysia and the United Kingdom.

experts say passport strength reflects a country’s economic stability and international relations.

At the other end of the list, Afghanistan is ranked as the weakest passport, with access to 23 countries.

Syria ranks second from the bottom, followed by Iraq.

Pakistan is ranked 98th, making it the fourth weakest passport in the world, with visa-free access to 31 countries.

The report highlights that political instability, internal conflict and migration trends are key factors behind weaker passport rankings.

It also notes a wide global disparity in travel freedom, with stronger economies offering greater international mobility.

Countries offering visa-free entry or easier access for Pakistani passport holders include Barbados, Dominica, Gambia, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, with stay durations ranging from one month to six months.

Maldives, Qatar, Nepal, Cambodia, Madagascar, and Mozambique offer visa-on-arrival facilities, usually requiring basic travel documents.

Several countries, including Kenya, Seychelles, and Azerbaijan, have introduced electronic travel systems for quicker online visa processing.

The report also notes standard entry requirements such as six-month passport validity, return tickets, sufficient funds and proof of residence, while some regions may require health certificates such as polio or yellow fever vaccination.