By: Isuru Parakrama
November 05, Colombo (LNW): In the latest update from the Henley Passport Index, Sri Lanka has secured the 95th position globally, reflecting a modest improvement in global mobility but underscoring its limited access to visa-free destinations.
Released by Henley & Partners in October 2024, the index reveals that Sri Lankan passport holders can access only 44 countries without prior visa requirements, positioning it alongside Iran and South Sudan in the global rankings.
This ranking shows a slight advance for Sri Lanka, which was positioned 100th in 2023 and 102nd in 2022, indicating gradual, albeit slow, improvement.
The Henley Passport Index assesses the strength of passports by the number of destinations holders can enter visa-free or with visa-on-arrival.
With data sourced from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and updated quarterly, the index provides an insight into global mobility and the ease of international travel.
Singapore, which regained the top spot this year, offers its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 195 out of 227 destinations.
This success can be attributed to Singapore’s strategic diplomatic efforts, which foster open access to countries worldwide.
This level of unrestricted mobility showcases the substantial benefits that arise from strong diplomatic ties and proactive visa agreements, setting a benchmark for other nations.
Japan, previously a long-time leader in passport rankings, has been displaced by Singapore and now ranks second, tied with France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. These nations grant their citizens visa-free access to 192 destinations.
Meanwhile, Denmark recently secured visa-free access to China, propelling it to the third rank globally.
The UK, still navigating the post-Brexit landscape, has climbed to fourth position with visa-free access to 190 countries, reflecting the country’s steady effort to re-establish its travel privileges internationally.
For Sri Lanka, the current ranking emphasises the need for a strengthened foreign policy and targeted efforts to enhance its citizens’ travel freedom. Expanding visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements could yield economic benefits, especially given the country’s reliance on remittances and international business ties.
Improved international access would also facilitate greater cultural exchange, potentially elevating Sri Lanka’s global presence and reinforcing its appeal as a travel and trade partner.
Whilst Sri Lanka’s gradual progress is positive, the passport’s limited reach highlights the importance of future diplomatic strategies aimed at enhancing Sri Lankan citizens’ mobility.
*With inputs from Henley Global
