Seychelles, Mauritius, and South Africa Lead Africa in 2025 Global Passport Power Rankings

The Henley Passport Index has released its 2025 Global Passport Ranking, evaluating the world’s passports based on the number of destinations that holders can access without requiring a prior visa. 

In Africa, Seychelles holds the highest rank—globally at 25th, with its passport granting citizens access to 156 destinations without a prior visa. 

Mauritius follows closely at 29th globally, allowing visa-free travel to 148 destinations. South Africa is ranked 48th globally, providing access to 106 destinations.

Top African States by Passport Visa-Free Score in 2025

• (25) Seychelles, 156
• (29) Mauritius, 148
• (48) South Africa, 106
• (57) Botswana, 88
• (62) Namibia, 81
• (64) Lesotho, 79
• (65) eSwatini, 77
• (67) Malawi, 75
• (68) Kenya, 74
• (69) Morocco, 73
• (69) Tanzania, 73

“The index is an invaluable resource for global citizens and the standard reference tool for government policy in this field.”

Henley and Partners

Global Powerhouses

Singapore ranks as the world’s most powerful passport in 2025, granting visa-free access to 195 destinations. 

Japan follows closely in second place with access to 193 destinations. The Passport Index evaluates a total of 199 passports and 227 travel destinations.

The Henley Passport Index relies on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and is further enhanced by the research expertise of Henley & Partners.