Henley Global Mobility Report 2025: Shifting Passport Power and Global Travel Trends
New York, N.Y. — The January 2025 edition of the Henley Global Mobility Report, published by Henley & Partners, offers fresh insights into the evolving landscape of global mobility, passport power, and international travel freedom.
As the world continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and adapts to new geopolitical realities, the report highlights significant changes in the ranking of passports, emerging travel trends, and the broader implications for individuals, businesses, and governments.
Passport Power Rankings: Asia Maintains Lead, Europe Close Behind
According to the latest Henley Passport Index, Asian countries continue to dominate the top spots. Japan, Singapore, and South Korea remain the world’s most powerful passports, granting their holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 destinations. European nations, including Germany, Spain, and Italy, closely follow, reflecting the enduring strength of EU travel privileges.
The United States and the United Kingdom, once leaders in global mobility,
have maintained their positions in the top 10 but face increased competition
from rising Asian and Middle Eastern countries.
The report attributes these shifts to changing diplomatic relations, new bilateral agreements, and evolving security policies.
Geopolitical Shifts and Mobility
The report underscores how geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts have influenced passport rankings and travel freedom.
The ongoing war in Ukraine, for example, has led to travel restrictions for Russian and Belarusian citizens, impacting their global mobility.
Conversely, countries investing in diplomatic outreach and international cooperation, such as the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, have seen improvements in their passport rankings.
Henley & Partners’ analysts note that global mobility is increasingly shaped by political stability, economic partnerships, and public health considerations. The report also highlights the growing importance of digital nomad visas and remote work programs, which have expanded options for global citizens seeking flexibility and security.
Economic Implications and Investment Migration
The Mobility Report delves into the economic impact of travel freedom, particularly for high-net-worth individuals and investors.
Countries offering citizenship-by-investment or residence-by-investment programs, such as Malta, Portugal, and St. Kitts & Nevis, continue to attract global talent and capital.
These programs are seen as strategic tools for economic growth, diversification, and resilience in the face of global uncertainty.
Henley & Partners forecasts that demand for alternative citizenship and residency will remain strong in 2025, driven by factors such as political instability, climate change, and the desire for greater personal and financial security.
Changing Travel Patterns and the Future of Mobility
The report observes a steady recovery in international travel, with global passenger numbers approaching pre-pandemic levels. However, it also notes a shift in travel patterns, with more travelers prioritizing destinations with robust healthcare systems, political stability, and environmental sustainability.
Experts featured in the report predict that the future of global mobility will be defined by adaptability, technology, and international cooperation. Enhanced digital border controls, health certifications, and biometric identification systems are expected to play a central role in facilitating secure and seamless travel.
The Henley Global Mobility Report, January 2025, provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of global mobility and passport power. As the world navigates complex challenges and opportunities, the ability to travel freely remains a key indicator of personal and national opportunity. The report’s findings underscore the importance of strategic policy decisions, international collaboration, and innovation in shaping the future of global movement.
Shift: Asia Leads, Europe Follows in 2025 Passport Rankings (May 4, 2025)
