The Pakistani passport has been ranked as the fourth weakest in the world, according to the Henley Passport Index 2024, a prestigious ranking system that evaluates the travel freedom of citizens from various countries. This ranking indicates that Pakistani passport holders face significant restrictions when traveling internationally, with only 33 countries allowing visa-free entry. In contrast, 154 destinations require a visa, highlighting the limited global mobility of Pakistani citizens.
The ranking criteria are based on the number of destinations that can be accessed without a prior visa, with the Singaporean passport holding the top spot, allowing its holders to travel to an impressive 195 destinations without a visa. In comparison, Pakistan’s neighboring countries, China, India, and Iran, are ranked at 82, 94, and 59, respectively, indicating that Pakistani passport holders face more stringent travel restrictions than their regional counterparts.
This ranking has significant implications for Pakistani citizens, who may face challenges when traveling abroad for business, education, or leisure. The limited travel freedom can also impact the country’s economic and cultural exchange with the rest of the world. Efforts to strengthen the Pakistani passport and improve its global ranking would require significant reforms in areas such as diplomacy, international relations, and national security. By addressing these challenges, Pakistan can work towards enhancing the travel freedom of its citizens and promoting greater global connectivity.
