South Africa’s passport has improved its global standing, according to the 2025 Henley Passport Index, based on data from the International Air Transport Association.
Ranked 48th out of 199 passports, the South African passport now offers visa-free access to 106 destinations. Its position improved by five positions compared with 2024. Its 48th place is the highest position South Africa has achieved since 2014.
South Africa’s passport also ranks among the top five most powerful in Africa. Leading the region is Seychelles, followed by Mauritius, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia.
Globally, Singapore retains its position as the world’s most powerful passport, with visa-free access to 195 out of 227 destinations. In second place is Japan, with visa-free travel to 193 countries.
Third place is shared by six countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland and South Korea, whose passports offer visa-free access to 192 destinations.
Seven EU passports – Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway and Sweden – tie for fourth place, offering visa-free access to 191 destinations.
In fifth place, Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland and the UK offer visa-free access to 190 destinations.
