India Slips to 125th in Global Passport Index 2026 Despite Improvement in Quality of Living Score

Although the Indian passport fell from 124th place in 2025, it has improved by two positions over the past five years, moving up from 127th in 2021. The report also notes that India’s overall composite score reached a five-year high of 45.1.

Namibia ranked just above India at 124th, while Azerbaijan followed at 126th.

What Makes the Global Passport Index Different?

Unlike passport rankings that focus mainly on visa-free travel, the Global Passport Index evaluates the overall value of a passport.

The ranking measures three key areas: international mobility, investment opportunities and quality of living. These factors are assessed through 14 indicators, offering a broader picture of how beneficial a passport is for travel, business and long-term relocation.

Indian Passport Offers Visa-Free Access to 26 Countries

According to the report, Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to 26 countries.

These destinations include Bhutan, Nepal, Jamaica, Macau, Palestine, Tunisia, Angola and Barbados, among others.

However, Indian citizens still require visas for around 88 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, China, Andorra and the United Arab Emirates.

India’s Performance Across Key Categories

India ranked 136th in the Enhanced Mobility Index, which contributes 50 per cent of the overall score. This category evaluates international travel access while also considering the attractiveness of destination countries.

The country performed better in the Quality of Living Index, climbing 11 places from last year to secure the 118th position. This category assesses healthcare, education, personal safety and other indicators that influence everyday life.

India also improved its position in the Investment Index, rising to 94th from 97th in the previous edition. The index measures economic strength, business opportunities and investment potential while also considering personal taxation policies.

Sweden Tops the Global Passport Index 2026

Sweden secured the top position as the world’s strongest passport in the Global Passport Index 2026.

Switzerland ranked second, followed by Finland in third place. Germany finished fourth, while the Netherlands and Denmark shared fifth place. Ireland ranked seventh, the United Kingdom eighth, Norway ninth and Singapore completed the top ten.

Steady Progress, But Challenges Remain

The latest rankings indicate that India continues to make gradual progress, particularly in quality of living and investment potential. However, the country’s global mobility score remains relatively low, reflecting the limited number of visa-free travel destinations available to Indian passport holders.

As international mobility, economic opportunities and living standards continue to shape passport rankings, future improvements will depend on India’s progress across these key areas.