Maldives Climbs in Henley Passport Index, Retains Top Spot in South Asia

The Maldives has advanced one position in the Henley Passport Index, securing the 52nd spot globally and maintaining its status as the strongest passport in South Asia. According to the annual index, compiled by Henley & Partners using data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Maldivian passport holders can now travel visa-free to 92 countries. Last year, the Maldives was ranked 53rd. India follows as the second-strongest passport in South Asia, ranked 80th with visa-free access to 55 countries. Bhutan and Sri Lanka trail behind, offering visa-free travel to 50 and 39 countries, respectively. Globally, Singapore leads the index with visa-free access to 192 countries, followed by Japan and South Korea in second place, and five European nations tied for third.