Iraqi passport ranked as the world’s third weakest in 2024

ERBIL, Iraqi Kurdistan region,— The Iraqi passport has been rated as one of the weakest travel documents globally, according to the latest Henley Passport Index.

The 2024 index, published by Henley & Partners, ranks the Iraqi passport 102nd on the worldwide list, granting visa-free access to only 31 countries. The same ranking was confirmed by the Passportindex.org for 2024.

This ranking remains unchanged from 2022, reflecting a consistent level of travel limitations for Iraqi passport holders.

In contrast, several Arab nations have stronger passports. Qatar leads the region, with its passport ranked 46th globally. This document allows visa-free travel to 107 destinations. Kuwait follows closely in 49th place, providing access to 99 countries.

Saudi Arabia’s passport is ranked 56th, permitting travel to 88 destinations, while Oman holds the 58th spot with visa-free access to 86 countries.

North African passports also vary in strength. Morocco’s passport is ranked 68th, offering visa-free travel to 72 countries.

Tunisia’s passport is positioned 71st, granting access to 69 destinations. Algeria’s passport is ranked 84th, allowing entry to 55 countries, and Egypt’s passport is 87th, with visa-free access to 52 destinations.

Globally, the Singapore passport holds the top position, allowing visa-free travel to 193 destinations. Japan, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain are tied for second place, each providing visa-free access to 192 countries.

The third position is shared by Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden, with each passport offering visa-free entry to 191 destinations.

The index also highlights the world’s weakest passports. Syria ranks 102nd, granting visa-free access to 28 countries.

Following Iraq, Yemen is 100th, with access to 33 countries, Somalia is 99th with 35 destinations, Libya is 98th offering travel to 39 countries, and Palestine ranks 97th with access to 40 countries.

The Henley Passport Index, based on data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA) and covering 19 years, assesses 199 passports and 227 travel destinations. It is widely recognized as a leading authority on global passport strength, based on the number of destinations accessible without a prior visa.

Jörg Steffen, CEO of Henley & Partners, emphasized the significance of passport strength in a statement reported by Bloomberg.

He noted, “Visa-free travel to a broad range of destinations is not just a convenience. It is a vital economic asset that can enhance growth, encourage international collaboration, and attract foreign investment.”

In June 2024, Tunisia announced the removal of tourist visa requirements for Iraqi citizens. This new policy allows Iraqi travelers to visit Tunisia without needing a visa, facilitating easier access for tourism and business purposes.