ISLAMABAD — The latest Henley Passport Index 2025 has brought disappointing news for Pakistani travellers, with the country’s passport slipping several places to rank 103rd globally, tied with Yemen. Despite the drop, Pakistani nationals can still visit 31 destinations visa-free or with visa-on-arrival, offering some respite amid tightening global travel policies.
According to the index which evaluates 199 passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a visa Pakistan has fallen from last year’s 96th position, when its citizens could enter 32 countries freely. The decline, though modest, underscores the challenges Pakistan faces in strengthening its global mobility and diplomatic reach.
Where Pakistanis Can Travel Without a Visa
Despite the low ranking, Pakistani passport holders still enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a range of Caribbean, African, and Asian countries, along with one nation in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
In Asia, Pakistanis can travel to Qatar, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste without the need for a prior visa.
In Africa, destinations include Burundi, Comoros, Cape Verde, Djibouti, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Rwanda, Seychelles, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
In the Pacific Islands, the list features Cook Islands, Micronesia, Niue, Palau Islands, Tuvalu, and Samoa.
Meanwhile, in the Caribbean, Pakistanis can visit Barbados, Dominica, Haiti, Montserrat, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.
What the Decline Means for Pakistan
Experts say the drop in ranking reflects broader challenges in Pakistan’s foreign relations and global image. A weaker passport often signals limited diplomatic influence, affecting not only tourism but also business travel and trade negotiations.
“Countries with stronger passports typically maintain robust bilateral relationships and stable governance structures, which make it easier to secure reciprocal visa deals,” explained a senior foreign affairs analyst. “Pakistan’s lower position suggests a need for renewed diplomatic engagement.”
The impact extends to business mobility as well. Entrepreneurs and professionals may face additional hurdles in obtaining visas for key markets, potentially complicating cross-border partnerships, trade, and investment opportunities.
A Matter of Global Perception
Beyond travel, the ranking also influences how Pakistan is viewed internationally. Passports with low mobility scores are often associated with countries facing governance, economic, or security challenges. This perception can deter foreign investors and limit participation in international forums or cultural exchange initiatives.
How Pakistan Can Improve Its Standing
Diplomatic and policy experts believe Pakistan can rebuild its global travel reputation through a mix of strategic engagement and domestic reform:
- Bilateral Agreements: Expanding trade and security cooperation with more countries could pave the way for reciprocal visa-free arrangements.
- Enhanced Security and Governance: Strengthening counterterrorism measures, border controls, and institutional transparency could help build global confidence in Pakistan’s stability.
- Tourism Diplomacy: By promoting its scenic beauty, cultural diversity, and historical sites, Pakistan could improve its image as a safe and attractive travel destination encouraging nations to ease entry requirements for its citizens.
The Road Ahead
While Pakistan’s passport remains among the lowest-ranked globally, experts stress that the country’s diplomatic efforts and domestic stability will play a defining role in reversing the trend.
Until then, the 31 visa-free destinations on offer remain a modest yet meaningful list for Pakistanis seeking global mobility in 2025.
