Indian Passport Soars to 77th in Henley Passport Index 2025: Unlocking Visa-Free Travel to 59 Destinations
India’s passport has advanced eight spots to rank 77th in the Henley Passport Index 2025, a prestigious international ranking that gauges travel freedom based on access to visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel. India has made the biggest improvement in recent years, as evidenced by its notable rise from 85th place last year, which reflects its expanding diplomatic influence and improved global mobility. Indian passport holders can now travel to 59 countries without having to apply for a visa in advance, which opens up new opportunities for travel, business, and cross-cultural interactions. However, how does this affect India’s standing internationally and what does it mean for Indian tourists?
Using information from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Henley & Partners created the Henley Passport Index, which rates 199 passports according to the number of visa-free destinations they can reach. India’s rise to 77th place is evidence of its developing bilateral agreements and international relations. Traveling to well-known countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives is now easier than ever for Indians thanks to visa-free or visa-on-arrival access. The list is further enhanced by other nations like Bhutan, Nepal, Kenya, and Jamaica, which provide a variety of experiences from tranquil landscapes to thriving cultural centers.
India’s increasing influence in international diplomacy is demonstrated by this upward trajectory in the Henley Passport Index 2025. Indian citizens can now travel more easily thanks to the country’s successful efforts to build closer ties with Asian, African, and Caribbean nations. Visa-on-arrival policies, for example, streamline travel arrangements in locations like Myanmar and Macau, while visa-free entry to popular tourist destinations like Thailand and the Maldives increases India’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign tourists. These advancements demonstrate India’s growing influence in promoting global connectivity in addition to empowering Indian tourists.
But the adventure is far from over. Even with this remarkable increase, India still trails world leaders like Japan, which comes in second at 193, and Singapore, which leads the index with visa-free access to 195 destinations. Indian passport holders still need to apply for visas to enter major countries like the US, the Schengen Area, the UK, and Australia, highlighting the necessity of ongoing diplomatic efforts to increase travel freedom. With Asian countries like China rising to 60th place and the United Arab Emirates joining the top 10, the Henley Passport Index 2025 also shows a changing global landscape.
This ranking boost is revolutionary for Indian professionals, tourists, and students. It facilitates cross-border mobility, increasing access to international trade, education, and leisure. Although the government’s efforts to negotiate visa waivers and improve diplomatic relations are obviously having an impact, more can be done. Additional enhancements to passport strength may open up even more opportunities as India continues to make its mark on the world stage. To plan your next journey, check out the complete list of visa-free locations and stay tuned for updates on India’s passport ranking. Now that 59 countries are more easily accessible, the world is calling. Where will you go next?
