Vietnam passport jumps 7 places
This upward trend is the result of the country's growing global mobility and diplomatic efforts.
THE HANOI TIMES — In the world's latest ranking, Vietnam’s passport climbed seven places to rank 84th worldwide, marking one of its strongest improvements in two decades.
According to the Henley Passport Index for Q3 2025, Vietnamese citizens can now enter 51 out of 227 global destinations visa-free or with simplified entry (e-visa, visa-on-arrival, or electronic travel authorizations). Key accessible destinations include ASEAN nations, Chile, Iran, Kenya, and the Maldives.
Vietnam's ordinary passport in its new template. Photo: Chinhphu.vn
This upward progression can be attributed to Vietnam’s proactive visa policies, including a recent government resolution effective March 15 of this year to renew the visa exemption policy for citizens of 12 countries, including Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom.
The exemption is valid until March 14, 2028 and allows travelers from these countries to stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days regardless of passport type or purpose of entry as long as they meet standard entry conditions.
Vietnam’s passport ranking marked its peak at 78th in 2006 and 2007.
Meanwhile, Singapore continues to top the Henley Passport Index, holding the number one spot for 2025 with visa-free access to 193 destinations. In contrast, the United States is at an all-time low, tied with Iceland and Lithuania for 10th place, with visa-free access to 182 destinations. This decline is the result of weak diplomatic efforts to expand visa-free agreements.
The Henley Passport Index, a globally recognized ranking based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), evaluates passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, emphasized that global access stems from strategic diplomacy: "Nations negotiating mutual visa waivers climb the rankings, while passive ones decline," he said.
Vietnam’s ascent reflects its efforts to enhance global connectivity. Analysts suggest that further visa liberalization could accelerate Vietnam's progress.
