Irish passport holders can visit 185 countries without prior visa application
Ireland has retained its fourth-place ranking among the world’s most powerful passports, based on the number of countries Irish citizens can visit without applying for a visa in advance.
Singapore topped Henley and Partners’ annual Passport Index with access to 192 countries without prior visa requirements. Japan and South Korea shared second place with visa-free access to 188 countries, while Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland occupied third place with access to 186 countries.
Ireland, with visa-free access to 185 countries, shares fourth place with Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands and Norway.
Ireland has consistently ranked in the top seven since 2006 and held second position from 2006 to 2009, demonstrating the enduring strength of Irish diplomatic relationships and the country’s international standing.
India ranks 80th on the list, with Indian passport holders able to visit 55 foreign countries without a prior visa. Algeria and Niger also occupy 80th position alongside India.
Afghanistan ranks at the bottom of the index in 101st position, with access to just 24 countries without prior visa requirements.
The Henley Passport Index ranks passports based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Authority, measuring the number of destinations passport holders can access without obtaining a visa in advance. The index is considered one of the most authoritative rankings of global travel freedom.
Ireland’s strong passport ranking reflects the country’s positive international relationships, political stability and diplomatic engagement across the globe. The visa-free access enjoyed by Irish citizens facilitates international travel for business, tourism and family visits, providing significant economic and social benefits.
The index has become an important measure of global mobility and soft power, with countries competing to expand visa-free access for their citizens through diplomatic negotiations and bilateral agreements.