The Israeli passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 168 destinations.
The Israeli passport has gained ground in global rankings, even as the American passport continues its slow decline in international mobility.
The latest Henley & Partners Passport Index, compiled with data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), places Israel in 18th position worldwide, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 168 destinations.
Although this figure is two fewer than in January — due to new restrictions imposed by the Maldives and Mauritania — Israel’s overall ranking has improved by one spot, largely because of changes among other countries’ positions.
At the top of the list, Singapore retains its dominance with access to 193 destinations, while Japan and South Korea share second place with 190 each.
European nations continue to fill most of the top ten slots. The United States, however, has dropped to 10th place with access to 182 countries, down one place since January and a steep fall from its former number one ranking a decade ago.
Other nations have seen dramatic shifts. India surged eight places in just six months, marking one of the most significant improvements.
Saudi Arabia has also climbed the list, reaching 54th place thanks to a sharp expansion of its tourism agreements.
China’s passport, once considered restrictive, now offers visa-free access to 75 countries — quadruple its reach compared to five years ago.
Not all trends are positive. Venezuela fell 15 places this year, and the US has lost eight spots over the last decade, reflecting a broader realignment in global diplomacy.
Traditional Western powers, experts note, are losing ground to nations that are actively building new alliances and easing travel policies.
“A passport today represents far more than the ability to cross borders,” said Daniel Shmeilin, head of the Henley & Partners Israel office.
“It is a reflection of diplomatic influence. In these uncertain times, strategic mobility and citizenship planning are becoming critical for individuals and states alike.”
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