Your SA passport is now the most powerful it has been in the past decade, according to the 2025 Henley Passport Index, which ranks 199 different passports according to the number of destinations they can access visa-free.

“The index is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association – the largest, most accurate travel information database – and enhanced by Henley & Partners’ research team. Expert insights regarding the latest ranking are available in the Global Mobility Report 2025,” the company states.

It is the first time since 2014 that SA’s passport ranks in the top 50, placing 48th in the latest report, compared to 41st then. The highest ranking South Africa achieved was in 2008 and 2009, ranking 35th.

The Henley Passport Index compares the visa-free access of 199 different passports to 227 travel destinations. If no visa is required, then a score with value = one is created for that passport. The same applies if you can obtain a visa on arrival, a visitor’s permit, or an electronic travel authority when entering the destination, its website explains.

Singapore, Japan and Finland made up this year’s top three, with France and Germany completing the top five ‘powerful passports’, according to the index. The full index can be viewed here.

Travel plans

Saint Augustine, a leading theologian and prolific writer, said: “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”

With SA’s passport now boasting 106 visa-free destinations, the opportunity to explore this ‘book’ in 2025 has significantly expanded. This visa-free access not only simplifies travel planning and saves time and effort by eliminating the need for pre-trip visa applications, but it also potentially opens doors to more affordable travel experiences.

It is, however, important to note there might be other requirements like a valid passport, proof of onward travel, or sufficient funds. Therefore, it’s always best to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements for the specific country you plan to visit.

A list of the visa-free and 120 visa-required destinations can be found here.