The Sri Lankan passport has fallen to 98th place in the latest Henley Passport Index 2025 global rankings.

In September, Sri Lanka dropped six spots, despite having climbed from 96th to 91st in July earlier this year. The Henley Passport Index ranks countries based on the number of destinations their citizens can visit without obtaining a prior visa.

At present, Sri Lankan passport holders can travel visa-free to only 41 destinations, while visas are required for entry into 185 other countries.

Meanwhile, Singapore continues to hold the top position in the index, offering visa-free access to 193 destinations. South Korea ranks second with 190, followed by Japan in third place with access to 189 destinations.

For the first time in the 20-year history of the index, the United States has dropped out of the Top 10, now ranking 12th alongside Malaysia. The Russian passport has also declined, moving from 46th to 50th place, behind Venezuela and Moldova.

At the bottom of the index, Afghanistan remains last with access to only 24 countries, followed by Syria (26) and Iraq (29).

In South Asia, India’s passport has slipped to 85th place in 2025, down five ranks from the previous year, reflecting changes in global travel policies and diplomatic relations. Pakistan is ranked 103rd with access to 31 destinations, Bangladesh is 100th with 38, Nepal is 101st with 36, and Bhutan leads the region at 92nd place, offering visa-free access to 50 destinations.