India’s passport rises to 75th in world's most powerful passports rankings; check top 10 list

India’s passport has climbed to the 75th position in the world’s most powerful passports rankings, marking a significant improvement from its 80th position at the start of 2026. This advancement reflects India’s strengthening diplomatic relationships and increased global mobility for its citizens. The rankings, which assess the number of countries a passport holder can visit without a prior visa, have positioned India closer to its best ranking of 71st, achieved back in 2006. The improvement in India's ranking highlights the country's ongoing efforts to enhance its international standing and ease travel for its citizens. This development is expected to benefit Indian travelers, offering them greater access to more countries with fewer visa restrictions. As global travel gradually rebounds post-pandemic, this boost in ranking could also facilitate international business and tourism, contributing positively to India's economy. In the global context, the top 10 most powerful passports continue to be dominated by countries with strong diplomatic networks. Japan, Singapore, and Germany frequently vie for the top spots, offering their citizens extensive visa-free access worldwide. While India is steadily improving, it still has a journey ahead to break into this elite group. Nevertheless, the recent rise in rankings is a promising indicator of the country's growing influence on the global stage.

— Authored by Next24 Live