In an international comparison of those passports with which you can enter most countries in 2023, Japan is in first place. The German passport is also in a top position – a passport from Russia, on the other hand, is worth less and less.
The US company Henley & Partners has been analyzing the development of visa regulations since 2006 and regularly publishes the Henley Passport Index – a ranking of the most valuable passports. This index shows how many countries the holders of each passport are allowed to enter.
Having a German passport is not a bad thing: because according to the Henley Passport Index it entitles you to visa-free entry into 190 countries in Corona-free times. Only Japan with 193 visa-free travel countries, Singapore and South Korea with 192 countries each are better off. Level with Germany: Spain.
Only behind them are three other European countries: Finland, Italy and Luxembourg. Citizens of these states can visit 189 countries without a visa.
This is followed by Denmark, Sweden, Austria and the Netherlands (188 countries). Great Britain (187) and the USA (186) follow behind.
Incidentally, Russia will be in 49th place in 2023 – far behind Ukraine. The Russian passport allows entry to 118 countries, while the Ukrainian passport allows entry to 144 countries. The last place in Henley Passport Index takes Afghanistan, behind Pakistan, Syria and Iraq. Afghan passport holders are only allowed to travel to 27 countries.
Passport Index: Apps offer free comparison
In addition to the Henley overview, we recommend that you take a look at the interactive web app from Passport index (Passport Index), which offers a variety of comparison options.
If you are planning a trip where you want to cross several borders, the free apps for Android and iOS highly recommended. After entering the trip, “Passport Index” gives you valuable information about the individual countries, and you also have the option of scanning your own passport so that you can quickly show it on your smartphone. Meanwhile, you can leave your real passport safely in your luggage.