Cypriot Passport Climbs in 2026 Global Ranking, Securing Visa-Free Access to 175 Destinations

The Cypriot passport has strengthened its position in the latest international passport rankings for 2026, rising one place to 13th position in the Henley Passport Index.

Cypriot citizens can now travel to 175 destinations without having to obtain a visa in advance, either through visa-free entry or by obtaining a visa upon arrival.

The improvement marks a step forward from 2025, when Cyprus ranked 14th globally. Nevertheless, the country remains one position below its highest-ever ranking of 12th, which Cyprus achieved in both 2006 and 2024.

Greece remains among the world's strongest passports

Greece continues to hold a considerably higher position in the global rankings, coming in fifth place worldwide. Greek passport holders enjoy access to 185 destinations without the need to secure a visa before travelling, keeping the Greek passport firmly among the most powerful in Europe.

Singapore retains the top spot

Singapore remains at the top of the 2026 Henley Passport Index, with its citizens able to travel to 192 destinations without obtaining a visa in advance.

Japan, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates share second place, with passport holders from each of the three countries able to access 188 destinations without a prior visa.

The United Arab Emirates stands out as one of the most remarkable success stories in the index over the past two decades. In 2006, the UAE ranked 62nd globally. This year, it has climbed all the way to second place, reflecting the country's significant expansion of visa-free travel agreements around the world.

Afghanistan remains at the bottom

At the opposite end of the ranking, Afghanistan has the world's weakest passport, placing last in the 2026 Henley Passport Index. Afghan passport holders can travel to only 22 destinations without obtaining a visa in advance.

The difference between the world's most powerful and least powerful passports has therefore reached 170 destinations. The wide gap illustrates the significant disparities that continue to exist internationally when it comes to freedom of movement.

The latest ranking places Cyprus among the world's strongest passports, while the country's rise to 13th position represents a modest but notable improvement from its position a year earlier. At the same time, the rankings highlight the contrasting levels of international mobility enjoyed by passport holders around the world—from Singapore's 192 accessible destinations to Afghanistan's 22.

By fLEXI tEAM