Maldives Reigns Supreme: South Asia's Strongest Passport According to Henley Index

MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — Maldives has once again emerged as South Asia’s most powerful passport, maintaining a clear lead over regional peers even as its global standing improves, according to the latest Henley Passport Index. In the 2026 edition of the index, the Maldivian passport climbed one place to rank 52nd globally, up from 53rd last year. Holders of a Maldivian passport can now access 92 destinations visa-free or with visa on arrival, a level of mobility unmatched by any other South Asian country. The Henley Passport Index, compiled annually by London-based Henley & Partners, ranks passports based on visa-free travel access using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association. The index is widely used as a benchmark for global mobility and diplomatic reach. Within South Asia, Maldives remains well ahead of its neighbours. India ranks second in the region at 80th globally, with Indian passport holders able to travel visa-free to 55 countries. Bhutan follows in third place in South Asia, offering access to 50 destinations without a prior visa, while Sri Lanka trails further behind, with visa-free access to 39 countries. The gap highlights a persistent regional divide in travel freedom. While Maldives continues to punch above its weight internationally, much of South Asia remains clustered in the lower tiers of the global mobility rankings, reflecting differences in diplomatic reach, bilateral agreements, and international perceptions. At the global level, Singapore retained its position as the world’s strongest passport, offering access to 192 destinations without a prior visa. It was followed by Japan and South Korea in second place, while five European countries shared third position in the rankings. Passport strength is increasingly seen as more than a travel convenience, with analysts noting that higher mobility reflects stronger diplomatic ties, economic openness, and international trust. For Maldives, continued regional leadership on the index underscores its distinctive position in South Asia despite its small size and limited population.