Pakistan Passport Climbs To 100th Place Globally With Visa Free Access To 32 Countries

Publish Date: 01, Jul 2025

Published BY: Admin

In a major development for Pakistani travelers, the country’s passport has advanced to the 100th position globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 32 countries, according to the latest Henley Passport Index reports cited by reputable outlets including ARY News, Pakistan Today, and Pakistan Observer in late June 2025.

This marks a promising improvement in global mobility for Pakistani citizens, whose passport has historically ranked among the weakest in the world. The latest ranking reflects positive diplomatic efforts and improved global relationships that have expanded travel opportunities for Pakistanis.

In this detailed article, we will explore what this milestone means, the countries Pakistanis can now visit more easily, the factors that helped improve the ranking, and what the future holds for the nation’s travel freedom.

Why Passport Rankings Matter

Global passport rankings, such as the Henley Passport Index, measure how freely a nation’s citizens can travel worldwide. These rankings consider:

The number of countries a passport holder can enter visa-free or with visa-on-arrival
The level of diplomatic relations and international agreements
Security, migration, and bilateral visa treaties

For years, the Pakistani passport was near the bottom of these rankings, restricting travel and increasing difficulties for citizens in accessing global opportunities. A stronger ranking represents better diplomatic ties, economic stability, and improved perceptions of Pakistani travelers abroad.

Pakistan New Passport Ranking 100th Globally

According to reports from ARY News, Pakistan Today, and Pakistan Observer, Pakistan’s passport has officially reached the 100th spot globally in the latest Henley Passport Index update. This improvement positions Pakistan ahead of several countries whose passports had traditionally ranked higher.

While 100th place may still sound modest compared to advanced economies, for Pakistan this is a major milestone, reflecting steady diplomatic progress and improved international standing.

Visa Free or Visa on Arrival Countries for Pakistanis

As per the current 2025 update, Pakistani passport holders can travel to 32 destinations visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. Here’s a breakdown of those countries:

Dominica
Haiti
Maldives
Qatar
Samoa
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
Vanuatu
Micronesia
Rwanda
Nepal
Sri Lanka (Electronic Travel Authorization)
Madagascar (visa on arrival)
Cambodia (visa on arrival)
Tajikistan (visa on arrival)
Timor-Leste (visa on arrival)
Togo (visa on arrival)
Uganda (visa on arrival)
Senegal (visa on arrival)
Sierra Leone (visa on arrival)
Mauritania (visa on arrival)
Mozambique (visa on arrival)
Burundi (visa on arrival)
Cape Verde
Comoros
Guinea-Bissau (visa on arrival)
Kenya (electronic visa)
Laos (visa on arrival)
Tanzania (visa on arrival)
Palau
Seychelles (visitor’s permit on arrival)
Iran (visa on arrival)

(Note: Visa policies change frequently. Always verify with the embassy before travel.)

Factors Behind the Improvement

There are several key factors driving Pakistan’s passport progress:

✅ Strengthened Diplomatic Relations
Pakistan has actively pursued stronger ties with multiple countries in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean, signing new agreements for easier travel.

✅ Improved Security Perception
Enhanced internal security and counter-terrorism efforts have made Pakistani travelers more trusted internationally.

✅ Economic Development
Pakistan’s gradual economic recovery and growth in foreign investments have strengthened its image abroad, encouraging visa facilitation.

✅ Consular Negotiations
Pakistani diplomatic missions have engaged actively in negotiating visa waivers or simplified visa-on-arrival processes, especially with countries in Africa and Southeast Asia.

What Does This Mean for Pakistani Travelers

For Pakistani citizens, this is more than just a statistic — it is a meaningful opportunity. Here’s what it means:

✅ Easier Travel: No need for lengthy visa appointments for these 32 destinations.
✅ Business Expansion: Small businesses and entrepreneurs can explore partnerships abroad with fewer travel barriers.
✅ Study Opportunities: Students can attend conferences and courses in these countries more easily.
✅ Tourism Boost: Pakistani tourists can plan vacations without cumbersome visa paperwork.
✅ Cultural Exchange: More travel strengthens global people-to-people ties and improves Pakistan’s image internationally.

Challenges That Still Exist

Despite this positive shift, Pakistani travelers still face significant visa restrictions in most of Europe, North America, and large parts of East Asia. Reasons for these restrictions include:

Security concerns
Immigration risks
Complex diplomatic ties
Economic migration worries

Additionally, Pakistani passport holders often need to show proof of accommodation, funds, and return tickets even in visa-on-arrival countries.

Therefore, while the top 100 ranking is a step forward, much work remains to achieve visa-free access to high-demand destinations like the EU, the US, Canada, and the UK.

How Pakistan Can Continue to Improve Its Passport

Pakistan’s policymakers and diplomats can build on this success by:

✅ Continuing bilateral talks to expand visa-free agreements
✅ Enhancing the security profile of Pakistani travelers
✅ Promoting cultural diplomacy
✅ Expanding economic and educational partnerships
✅ Encouraging more international tourism collaboration

With consistent effort, Pakistan could continue to move up the rankings and gain even more travel freedom for its citizens.

Tips for Pakistani Travelers

If you hold a Pakistani passport and wish to maximize your travel opportunities:

✔️ Always confirm visa requirements before booking your trip
✔️ Keep your passport valid for at least six months
✔️ Maintain a clean travel record to avoid complications
✔️ Carry proof of return travel and sufficient funds
✔️ Respect local laws and customs in your destination country

These steps will help you travel more smoothly and avoid unnecessary challenges.

Key Notes

Pakistan’s passport achieving the 100th rank globally with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 32 countries is a remarkable achievement and a symbol of the nation’s progress on the diplomatic and security front. While challenges remain, this milestone opens up more opportunities for Pakistani citizens to explore the world, grow their businesses, and experience diverse cultures.

As the world becomes more connected, having a stronger passport is critical for economic growth and people-to-people connections. With continued efforts, Pakistan has the potential to climb even higher in future passport rankings, bringing more freedom and opportunities for its people.

So, if you’re a Pakistani traveler planning your next adventure, this might just be the right time to explore those 32 destinations - without the hassle of a visa. Bon voyage!