ISLAMABAD | July 1, 2025— Pakistan Passport ranking has made a significant leap in global travel mobility, with its passport now granting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 32 countries. This progress reflects an improvement in the ranking of Pakistan’s passport, which now stands at the 100th position out of 199 countries, according to the latest data released by Henley & Partners, a renowned global citizenship and residence advisory firm.
This new milestone highlights a steady yet promising shift in the ranking of Pakistan in global mobility, previously ranked at 113th in 2021. It also emphasizes the country’s growing diplomatic influence and improved international relations.
A Boost for Diplomatic Relations: UAE-Pakistan Visa Exemption
In a major diplomatic development, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for mutual exemption of visas for holders of *iplomatic and official passports. The agreement was inked during the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC).
This bilateral move will eliminate the need for pre-travel visa procedures for government officials and diplomats from both countries. As a result, high-level engagements are expected to become more frequent and less cumbersome.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), expressed optimism about the agreement. He noted that the move reflects “our shared resolve to further strengthen fraternal ties and deepen institutional collaboration across all levels.”
This agreement is not just symbolic; it carries practical benefits for Pakistan’s diplomatic corps and signifies the UAE’s trust and confidence in Pakistan’s foreign policy direction.
32 Countries Now Accessible Without Pre-Approved Visa
According to the updated 2025 Henley Passport Index, Pakistani citizens can now travel to 32 countries without obtaining a visa in advance. These include destinations from Africa, the Caribbean, South and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Although not all are major tourist spots, the broadening access points to meaningful progress in the Pakistan passport ranking.
Here’s a breakdown of countries offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access:
African and Indian Ocean Nations:
- Kenya
- Rwanda
- Seychelles
- Madagascar
- Mozambique
- Burundi
- Comoro Islands
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- Cape Verde Islands
- Djibouti
- Guinea-Bissau
South and Southeast Asia:
- Maldives
- Nepal
- Sri Lanka
- Cambodia
- Timor-Leste
Caribbean Nations:
- Dominica
- Haiti
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Barbados
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Montserrat
Pacific Islands:
- Micronesia
- Palau Islands
- Samoa
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
- Niue
- Cook Islands
Middle East:
- Qatar
This increased mobility, while modest compared to top-ranking nations, shows tangible diplomatic and policy-driven efforts in improving Pakistan passport ranking.
Global Pakistan Passport Rankings: Pakistan in Context
Despite this recent improvement, Pakistan passport ranking remains one of the lowest in South Asia. For context, Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to over 60 destinations, while Bangladeshis have access to approximately 42 countries.
On the other end of the spectrum, Singapore holds the top global passport ranking, offering visa-free access to 193 destinations. It is followed closely by Japan and South Korea, each with access to 190 countries, while Germany, France, and Spain share third place with 189 destinations.
Still, Pakistani officials remain optimistic. They argue that the recent improvements, though gradual, indicate consistent progress driven by foreign policy realignment and increased regional collaboration.
Understanding the Types of Visa Access
Henley & Partners also outlined the definitions of travel access:
- Visa-free: No visa is needed before or upon arrival.
- Visa-on-arrival: Issued upon landing at the destination.
- E-visa: Requires online application and approval before departure.
- ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization): A pre-entry requirement that’s simpler than a traditional visa.
Such distinctions are crucial for travelers navigating complex immigration requirements and planning international visits.
Looking Ahead: A Path Toward Greater Mobility
In conclusion, the rise in the Pakistan passport ranking from 113th in 2021 to 100th in 2025 marks a hopeful trajectory. Although challenges remain, especially compared to neighboring and global peers, this improvement is a testament to Pakistan’s evolving foreign relations and diplomatic outreach.
As the country continues to engage constructively with global partners like the UAE and expands its travel-friendly agreements, citizens can expect gradual, positive changes in their travel freedom.
With continued focus and cooperation, Pakistan passport ranking may improve further in upcoming years, opening new avenues for tourism, diplomacy, education, and business around the world.
