OTTAWA In a significant shift in global passport rankings, Canadian passport holders have surpassed their American counterparts in terms of visa-free access to international destinations. According to the latest Henley Passport Index, Canada now ranks in 9th place for the number of countries its citizens can visit without needing to apply for a visa, while the U.S. passport has dropped to 12th place.
This update marks a notable change from last year when both Canada and the United States were tied at 7th place in the Henley ranking, which categorizes countries into blocs based on their visa-free travel options. The rankings are significant as they reflect the ease with which citizens of different nations can travel globally without the burden of visa applications.
The report from Henley and Partners, which has been releasing the rankings for two decades, points to several factors contributing to this change. One of the primary reasons is the recent implementation of reciprocal visa policies by other countries, which have responded to new U.S. visa restrictions and stricter entry requirements. This has led to an increased number of countries imposing more stringent travel conditions for U.S. passport holders, while simultaneously easing restrictions for Canadian travelers.
Notably, Canadians enjoy access to several countries without the need for a visa, including Belarus, Papua New Guinea, and Uzbekistan. Additionally, Canada offers its citizens the ability to bypass visa requirements upon arrival in Bolivia and Rwanda. This expanded access underscores the advantages Canadian travelers now have compared to their American peers.
When examining the detailed numbers within the Henley Passport Index, the disaggregated data illustrates an even starker contrast. Canada ranks 32nd in terms of overall visa-free travel opportunities, while the United States is positioned at 37th place. Both countries were previously placed 26th in the ranking last year, indicating a downward trend for the U.S. while Canada has improved its standing.
This significant development was first reported by The Canadian Press on October 16, 2025, and highlights a growing disparity in global travel accessibility for citizens of Canada and the United States. As countries continue to adapt their visa policies in response to changing international relations, the implications of these rankings could further influence travel trends, international tourism, and diplomatic relations between nations.
The unveiling of the new Canadian passport at an event held at the Ottawa International Airport on May 10, 2023, further emphasizes Canada's commitment to enhancing travel opportunities for its citizens. As global mobility becomes increasingly crucial, the dynamics reflected in the Henley Passport Index will likely play an essential role in shaping the travel landscape for Canadian and American passport holders alike.
