Canada Ranks among World’s Top Ten Most Powerful Passports in 2025
The latest edition of the Henley & Partners Passport Index has placed Canada within the top ten most powerful passports globally for 2025. Canadian passport holders can now travel visa-free to 183 destinations, securing the 9th position out of 198 jurisdictions assessed. Meanwhile, the United States passport has fallen out of the top ten for the first time in 20 years.
Global Rankings and Canada’s Position
- The ranking is based on the number of destinations citizens can enter without a visa, or with visa-on-arrival or electronic travel authorization (eTA).
- Countries ranked above Canada include:
- 1st: Singapore (193 destinations)
- 2nd: South Korea (190 destinations)
- 3rd: Japan (189 destinations)
- 4th: Germany (188 destinations)
- 5th: Austria (187 destinations)
- 6th: Greece (186 destinations)
- 7th: Australia (185 destinations)
- 8th: Croatia (184 destinations)
- 9th: Canada (183 destinations)
- 10th: Latvia (182 destinations)
- The Canadian passport dropped from 7th place earlier in the year to 8th, and now 9th, as visa-free access decreased from 188 to 183 destinations.
- The U.S. passport, once among the most powerful, has slid out of the top ten entirely.
Why This Matters for Canadian Citizens and Immigrants
- A strong passport ranking enhances travel freedom, facilitating leisure, business, and family visits across the world with fewer visa hurdles.
- For immigrants seeking Canadian citizenship, this ranking underscores one of the long-term benefits of becoming a Canadian: a globally respected travel document.
- The ranking also reflects Canada’s diplomatic relationships and agreements with other countries regarding mobility, security, and immigration.
How Canada’s Passport Strength Has Evolved
- Earlier in 2025, Canada held the 7th position with access to 188 destinations; it slipped to 8th position in July with 184 destinations; it now stands 9th with access to 183 destinations.
- Over the past decade the Canadian passport has declined five places, yet it remains within the top ten — indicating sustained global standing.
- Passport strength is closely tied to visa agreements, bilateral relations, and global mobility trends, including security and immigration considerations.
What You Should Know
- To obtain a Canadian passport, you must be either a Canadian citizen by birth, naturalization or descent. Citizenship allows you to apply for a passport through Service Canada.
- The processing time for a Canadian passport is typically 10 to 20 business days, depending on method and service level.
- For immigrants, obtaining citizenship may open the door not just to travel freedom, but to other benefits like improved employment mobility, access to social benefits and a stable family base.
The Bottom Line
Canada’s continued presence within the top ten most powerful passports reaffirms its position as a major player in global mobility. For individuals considering immigration to Canada, this ranking underscores the tangible benefits of citizenship — beyond simply living and working in the country. Good travel access, strong national brand, and international respect remain key advantages.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
