In Summary
- Seychelles has the strongest passport in Africa, far exceeding others in the region, allowing for visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 149 countries.
- Among the top three, South Africa’s passport strength has weakened compared to previous rankings, reflecting tighter global visa policies and regional political dynamics.
- Overall, African passports have shown steady improvement in global mobility, yet there remains a significant disparity, with a 69-country gap between the strongest and tenth-ranked passports.
Deep Dive!!
Having the ability to travel internationally is increasingly vital. While power has traditionally been associated with military strength, resources, or political might, access to global mobility is becoming equally significant as it opens doors to new opportunities. For millions of Africans, a robust passport means enhanced access to healthcare, job prospects, investments, and education. Most importantly, it translates to more opportunities to explore the globe and less time spent waiting for visas.
The Passport Index has released a revised ranking, illustrating the global performance of African passports based on their mobility score. This score indicates the number of countries passport holders can enter without a visa or can obtain a visa upon arrival. The latest figures show consistent growth and notable improvements among African nations.
10. Tunisia
Tunisia boasts a mobility score of 80. While it ranks 10th, this score remains relatively low on a global scale. Tunisia outperforms Namibia and Malawi in ranking, despite sharing the same mobility score, by having broader visa-free access to certain regions in Asia, especially the Middle East, with access to around 11 countries. For many Tunisians, traveling within Africa and parts of Asia is simple, although connections to the European Union for free movement are limited.
9. Malawi
Malawi holds a solid mobility score of 80, backed by stable economic policies that enhance its passport strength. Thanks to its connections within the Commonwealth and historical ties formed during the non-aligned movements, Malawi enjoys visa access to 9 countries in Asia.
Malawi’s mobility score is evaluated not merely on its economic position, but also on its consistent foreign policy engagement.
8. Namibia
Namibia shines in Southern Africa, securing a mobility score of 80. Its consistent diplomatic presence and access to about 10 Asian countries plays a key role in this ranking. Strong governance and effective bilateral relations are significant factors bolstering Namibia’s top position, as well as its active efforts to enhance its global mobility.
7. Eswatini
Despite its small size, Eswatini has achieved a mobility score of 81. The country has established strong relations with over 10 Asian nations, including Malaysia, Singapore, and South Korea, allowing for visa-free and visa-on-arrival entry. Eswatini serves as a prime example of how smaller nations can thrive through diplomatic engagement and stability.
6. Lesotho
Lesotho is another notable country in Southern Africa, achieving a mobility score of 82. Its citizens have access to over 10 countries in Asia, making its passport valuable beyond the African continent. Lesotho maintains strong diplomatic ties, particularly with East Asian trade partners and the Commonwealth, which reinforces its global access.
5. Morocco
Morocco enjoys a reputation as a popular tourist destination, contributing positively to the strength of its passport. With a mobility score of 86, Moroccan passport holders can visit over 13 Asian countries either visa-free or with a visa on arrival. Morocco has historically upheld strategic diplomatic relations in Arab regions and Europe.
Additionally, ongoing economic collaborations in the Middle East and Asia, combined with its geographical position in North Africa, have broadened its mobility scope, though strict EU visa regulations still limit its potential for further growth.
4. Botswana
Botswana’s global passport influence can be seen as a success story.
Located in Southern Africa, Botswana boasts a mobility score of 86, providing access to more than 12 Asian nations thanks to its strong governance and neutral diplomatic stance.
The country features stable institutions and a reputable international standing, making its passport one of the most esteemed across Africa. Holders of a Botswana passport can travel easily to Asia, the Americas, and multiple regions in Europe.
3. South Africa
With a mobility score of 111, South Africa stands out as the leader in mobility among Sub-Saharan countries. Sustained efforts in diplomacy and investment within the G20 and BRICS frameworks have enabled its citizens to enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 17 countries in Asia. Despite this, South Africa’s mobility score has dropped compared to previous years, primarily due to increased migration control measures and stricter policies in some EU nations. Nonetheless, the passport remains advantageous for regional travelers.
2. Mauritius
Mauritius holds a mobility score of 141, allowing access to over 20 Asian countries, including China, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The island’s extensive international relationships, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, along with its stable financial environment and peaceful political landscape, contribute to the global respect for its passport. For Mauritian citizens, traveling is seen as an opportunity rather than a challenge.
1. Seychelles
Seychelles ranks first in Africa and is the 21st globally, with a mobility score of 149. The nation provides access to more than 26 Asian countries. The strength of Seychelles’ passport is largely due to its neutral stance during significant conflicts and proactive international relations. Citizens of Seychelles enjoy the privilege of visa-free or visa-on-arrival access worldwide.
