Imagine a world where travel was once limited, and the borders of foreign countries seemed like distant dreams. For many Indian passport holders, this was the reality not too long ago. But in recent years, the Indian passport has been on a journey of transformation, breaking barriers, and gaining recognition worldwide. It’s like watching a bird soaring higher and higher, spreading its wings to explore new horizons.

Henley and Partners are the creators of the renowned Henley Passport Index, a significant ranking system that reflects the progress and significance of passports worldwide. This index evaluates the number of countries a specific passport allows its holder to visit without the need for a visa.

Ranking of Indian Passport

Back in 2014, India’s passport secured the 76th position on this index, granting Indian passport holders access to 52 countries without a visa. However, the journey of the Indian passport has not been a straightforward one, experiencing ups and downs over the years.

In 2015, there was a slight dip as India’s ranking fell to 88, with only 51 countries providing visa-free entry to Indians. Yet, this setback didn’t deter the Indian passport’s ambitions. It rallied in 2016, moving up to the 85th spot, and further advanced to the 87th spot in 2017. Gradually, the Indian passport gained momentum, becoming increasingly recognized across the globe.

The journey of the Indian passport demonstrates the power of diplomacy and the significance of forging strong international relations. As the Indian passport expands its reach, it becomes a symbol of India’s growing influence and its desire to engage with the world. The progress of the Indian passport on the Henley Passport Index showcases the potential for global mobility, creating opportunities for its holders to explore diverse cultures, conduct business, and strengthen cross-border connections.

The year 2018 marked a momentous turning point for the Indian passport, as it soared to the 81st position on the Henley Passport Index, offering visa-free access to an impressive 61 countries. This achievement was a testament to India’s growing global influence and its efforts in fostering stronger diplomatic ties with nations around the world.

Journey of the Indian Passport

The momentum continued in 2019 and 2020, as the Indian passport maintained its impressive rank at 82, continuing to provide visa-free access to the same number of countries. But the best was yet to come. In 2021, the Indian passport leaped to the 81st position once again, granting its holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to an incredible 58 countries. This remarkable progress further reflected India’s increasing presence on the world stage and the strengthening of its international relations.

The journey of the Indian passport didn’t stop there. In the latest Henley Passport Index of 2023, it climbed even higher, reaching the 80th position. This upward trend in global mobility signifies India’s ongoing efforts to foster greater connectivity and cooperation with countries across different continents.

Today, the Indian passport has transformed into a powerful global travel companion, opening doors to a diverse array of countries and experiences. With this magical key in hand, Indian passport holders can embark on journeys of exploration, cultural immersion, and business ventures, seizing boundless opportunities on the global stage.

As India’s global impact expands, its passport takes on new meaning as a gateway to openness and collaboration with the world. No longer just a travel document, the Indian passport embodies the spirit of exploration and eagerness to learn from diverse cultures. It serves as a reminder of our interconnected global community and the shared goal of building bridges of friendship and cooperation across borders.

The journey of the Indian passport reflects our country’s rising prominence on the world stage. It has transformed from a simple identification to a powerful symbol of India’s engagement with the international community and its commitment to fostering peace and progress.

Which is the strongest passport in the world?

The world’s most powerful passport currently belongs to Singapore, marking a significant shift in the rankings. Surpassing Japan, Singapore has reclaimed the top spot on the prestigious Henley Passport Index. According to the latest data, Singaporean passport holders can revel in the freedom of visa-free entry to an astounding 192 destinations worldwide, making it the envy of travelers across the globe.

This Southeast Asian city-state had previously held the coveted title in 2021 but briefly ceded it to Japan the following year. Now, it has once again solidified its position as the leader in global mobility, showcasing the strength of Singapore’s international relations and diplomatic prowess.

Sharing an impressive second place on the passport power scale are Germany, Italy, and Spain. Their passport holders can also relish easy access to an impressive array of 190 destinations around the world. These European nations stand alongside Singapore as symbols of open borders and positive international engagement.

Japan, which had dominantly held the top spot for four out of the last five years, gracefully takes the third position in the current ranking. It shares this spot with countries renowned for their passport strength, including France, Austria, Finland, Sweden, Luxembourg, and South Korea, all offering visa-free entry to 189 destinations.

Visa-Free Travel to India

Citizens of Bhutan, Maldives, and Nepal enjoy the privilege of entering India without the need for a visa. They can stay in the country for up to 90 days, granting them ample time to explore India’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. This visa exemption applies regardless of their point of departure, except for mainland China.

The visa-free arrangement nurtures strong bonds between these neighboring nations and facilitates effortless travel for their citizens. This fosters meaningful cultural exchanges, opens doors to business prospects, and strengthens the connections among the people in the region.

By eliminating the need for visas, Bhutanese, Maldivian, and Nepalese travelers can explore India’s diverse landscapes and immerse themselves in its rich heritage without the hindrance of paperwork. This seamless travel experience not only enhances tourism but also promotes understanding and friendship among the people of these countries.

The absence of visa requirements fosters a spirit of openness and cooperation, encouraging individuals and businesses to engage in mutually beneficial ventures. Whether it’s sharing artistic traditions, exploring new markets, or forging academic collaborations, the visa-free privilege paves the way for diverse opportunities and cultural enrichment.

Where can Indians travel visa-free? 

According to the Henley Passport Index, people with an Indian passport can visit 57 countries without a visa. These destinations span various regions across the globe, offering exciting opportunities for adventure and exploration.

In the Middle East, visa-free access awaits in  Qatar, Jordan, Oman, and Iran providing a gateway to discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of this region. Meanwhile, South America welcomes Indian travelers with visa-free entry to El Salvador & Bolivia , offering a taste of vibrant cultures and natural wonders.

The list extends to the Oceania region, where Indian passport holders can freely visit enchanting destinations such as the Micronesia, Niue, Palau Islands, Samoa, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and the Cook, Fiji, Marshall, and Marshall Islands. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Pacific and bask in the beauty of tropical paradises.

For those seeking Caribbean adventures, Barbados, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago offer visa-free access, presenting a kaleidoscope of cultures, cuisines, and breathtaking landscapes.

As for Asian countries, there are numerous exciting options for Indian travelers. Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Bhutan, Timor-Leste, Maldives, and Macao (SAR China) warmly welcome Indian passport holders with visa-free arrival, allowing for unforgettable experiences in diverse and enchanting locales.

Notably, the majority of countries on the list are situated in Africa, presenting a vast range of opportunities for exploration. From Burundi to Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands to Djibouti, Gabon to Guinea-Bissau, and Madagascar to Mauritania, the African continent opens its arms to Indian travelers, offering unique cultural encounters and unforgettable journeys.

Which European countries are visa-free for an Indian?

It’s worth noting that the list, although extensive, does not encompass any European or North American countries. While these regions remain popular travel destinations for many Indians, their visa requirements may vary, and it’s essential to check the specific regulations for each country before planning your journey.

With this diverse range of visa-free destinations, Indian passport holders can embark on journeys of discovery and connection, enriching their lives with cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and unforgettable memories. The world beckons, and the possibilities are endless for those with the wanderlust to explore and embrace the global tapestry of humanity.