Canadian Passport Surpasses U.S. in 2025 Global Rankings

According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, the Canadian passport has climbed to 7th place globally, granting holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations. This performance places Canada ahead of the United States, which dropped to 10th place, offering access to just 182 countries—its lowest ranking in two decades.
Canada Rises in Global Mobility While U.S. Slips
Canada’s passport has either maintained or slightly improved its global standing in recent years, typically ranking between 8th and 9th. The 2025 results show further progress.
In contrast, the U.S. passport’s decline to 10th place marks a significant fall from its consistent top-five ranking over the past decade. With access now limited to 182 destinations, this is the weakest performance for American travelers in 20 years.
Canada’s strong showing is attributed to:
- Robust and stable diplomatic ties
- Continued expansion of visa waiver agreements
- A positive and respected international reputation
Top Passport Rankings in 2025: Asia Takes the Lead
The Henley Passport Index measures global mobility by the number of destinations accessible without a visa.
Here are the Top 5 most powerful passports in 2025:
- Singapore – 193 destinations
- Japan & South Korea – 190 destinations each
- Germany, Italy, Spain – 189 destinations
- Finland, Sweden, Netherlands, Austria, Luxembourg – 188 destinations
- Canada, Poland, Malta – 188 destinations
Canada now shares its position with Poland and Malta, underscoring its strength in international travel and access.
Why the Canadian Passport Stands Out
The Canadian passport offers exceptional travel benefits, including:
- Visa-free entry to the Schengen Area, U.K., Japan, and most of Latin America
- A secure and efficient passport renewal process
- A favorable image of Canadian travelers worldwide
Unlike the U.S., which has recently faced restrictions from countries like Brazil and proposed surcharges such as the $250 Visa Integrity Fee, Canada has avoided major diplomatic conflicts that could impact global mobility.
What This Means for Canadian Travelers
With Canada’s passport ranking among the most powerful globally, Canadian citizens enjoy:
- Greater freedom to travel for tourism, business, and education
- Fewer visa applications and entry barriers
- A global reputation of trust and cooperation
In today’s interconnected world, a strong passport is more than just a travel document—it’s a symbol of national credibility and personal freedom. Canada’s 2025 passport ranking reflects its diplomatic strength, global partnerships, and commitment to open, respectful international engagement.
For Canadian citizens, this translates to greater access, mobility, and global opportunity—outpacing even one of the world’s most recognized passports: the United States.