Canada Passport Ranking 2025: Drops Two Spots but Still Stronger Than the U.S.
By Asif Consulting – Updated October 20, 2025
The new Henley Passport Index 2025 is out, and while Canada passport ranking 2025 has slipped slightly in global ranking, it still remains one of the most powerful and respected passports in the world.
According to the latest update, Canada now ranks 9th globally, giving its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 183 destinations. Despite a small drop from last year’s 7th position, Canada’s passport still outranks the United States, which now sits at 12th place.
What Is the Henley Passport Index?
The Henley Passport Index is one of the most trusted global rankings of passport strength. It is created by Henley & Partners in partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
This index measures how many destinations passport holders can visit without needing a visa, or by getting a visa on arrival or an electronic travel authorization (eTA).
Every quarter, it compares 199 passports across 227 destinations. A higher ranking means stronger global trust, diplomatic power, and travel freedom.
Canada’s New Ranking: 9th in the World
In early 2025, Canada’s passport was ranked 7th, allowing entry to 188 destinations without a visa.
Now, in the latest October update, it has dropped to 9th place, with access to 183 destinations — losing visa-free entry to four countries.
Even with this change, Canada still stays ahead of the U.S., whose citizens can travel to 180 destinations visa-free. This marks the first time in 20 years that the U.S. passport has fallen outside the top 10.
Why Did Canada’s Passport Ranking Drop?
There are a few key reasons behind the slight drop in Canada’s ranking:
- Reduced Visa-Free Access
Some countries have replaced visa-free entry with eVisas or visa-on-arrival systems, cutting Canada’s total count by five destinations. - Rising Competition
Countries like Singapore, South Korea, and the UAE have signed new visa-waiver agreements, helping them climb up the index. - Reciprocity Issues
Canada enforces stricter visa rules for some countries, which affects its ability to negotiate mutual visa-free agreements. - Post-Pandemic Travel Changes
Many nations have introduced digital travel authorizations and health checks, making travel rules tighter overall.
Despite these shifts, Canada still offers one of the world’s most respected and stable passports, symbolizing trust and global partnership.
Canada vs. the United States
This year’s results show a big milestone — Canada passport ranking 2025 is now stronger than the U.S. passport for the first time in two decades.
- Canada: 183 destinations visa-free
- United States: 180 destinations visa-free
Experts link the U.S. drop to tougher border policies and fewer new visa deals, while Canada continues to benefit from its diplomatic image and openness.
The World’s Top 10 Most Powerful Passports in 2025
- Singapore – 193 destinations
- South Korea, Japan – 190 destinations
- Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, Switzerland – 188 destinations
- Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, Netherlands – 187 destinations
- Greece, Hungary, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sweden – 186 destinations
- Australia, Czechia, Malta, Poland – 185 destinations
- Croatia, Estonia, Slovakia, Slovenia, UAE, UK – 184 destinations
- Canada – 183 destinations
- Latvia, Liechtenstein – 182 destinations
- U.S. – 180 destinations
At the bottom, Afghanistan remains the weakest passport, with visa-free access to only 25 destinations.
Visa-Free Travel for Canadians
Canadian passport holders can travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival to most parts of the world, including:
Africa: Morocco, Mauritius, Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, Seychelles, Rwanda, Tanzania
Asia: Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, UAE, Israel, Philippines
Europe: All Schengen countries, plus the UK and Ireland
Americas: Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and most Caribbean nations
Oceania: Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu (eTA needed for Australia and New Zealand)
Countries Where Canadians Still Need a Visa
Around 39 countries still require Canadian citizens to apply for a visa or eVisa. These include China, India, Russia, Iran, Nigeria, North Korea, and Vietnam, among others.
Most of these restrictions are due to security or reciprocity reasons.
The Future of the Canadian Passport
Even after the small drop, Canada remains one of the most travel-friendly countries in the world. Experts believe that with the right steps, Canada can climb back into the top five passports soon.
Here’s how Canada can regain its higher position:
- Sign More Visa-Waiver Agreements
Expanding travel deals with more countries will open new doors. - Invest in Digital Travel Systems
Modernizing eVisa and eTA processes will make travel smoother. - Increase Diplomatic Outreach
Stronger global partnerships can restore Canada’s rank quickly. - Encourage Reciprocity
Relaxing visa requirements for visitors may help gain similar access abroad. - Prepare for ETIAS (2026)
From late 2026, Canadians visiting Europe’s Schengen Zone will need an ETIAS travel authorization. Planning ahead will keep travel hassle-free.
What Canadian Travellers Should Remember
Before you travel, make sure to:
- Check entry rules for your destination (they can change anytime).
- Keep your passport valid for at least 6 months after your return date.
- Know that visa-free stays usually last 30 to 90 days.
- Register with Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) for emergency support.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s passport may have slipped two spots in 2025, but it still ranks 9th globally and remains stronger than the U.S. passport.
This shows that Canada continues to be seen as a trusted, stable, and respected nation with exceptional global access.
With stronger diplomacy, smarter travel systems, and new visa partnerships, Canada can soon reclaim its place among the top five passports in the world. For further assistance please contact Asif Consulting.
