The Canadian passport continues to solidify its reputation as one of the world’s most powerful travel documents. According to the 2025 Henley Passport Index, Canada’s passport ranks seventh globally, offering unmatched convenience and access for its holders. This article delves into the details of the ranking, the methodology behind it, and why the Canadian passport is a symbol of global mobility.
Canada’s Global Passport Ranking in 2025
The 2025 Henley Passport Index, compiled by Henley & Partners, ranks the Canadian passport seventh in the world. This ranking is based on the number of destinations Canadian passport holders can visit visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access. In 2025, Canadians enjoy hassle-free entry to 188 destinations, placing them alongside Malta and Poland in the same position.
Beating the U.S. Passport
For the first time since the index’s inception in 2006, the Canadian passport has outperformed the U.S. passport, which now ranks ninth. This marks a significant milestone for Canada, highlighting its growing influence in global travel.
Year-on-Year Trends
The Canadian passport has shown remarkable consistency, maintaining its seventh position from 2024 and improving from its eighth position in 2023. However, it’s worth noting that Canada ranked fourth in 2015, indicating a gradual decline over the last decade.
Changes in Visa-Free Access
In 2025, Canadian travelers have seen notable changes in visa policies:
- New Visa-Free Destinations: Egypt and Brazil have removed visa restrictions for Canadian passport holders, making these popular destinations more accessible.
- Added Restrictions: Conversely, Gabon and Togo now require Canadians to obtain visas prior to travel.
These changes underline the dynamic nature of global mobility and the importance of staying updated on travel regulations.
How Does Canada Compare Globally?
The Henley Passport Index evaluates 199 passports and their access to 227 destinations worldwide. Here’s how Canada stacks up against other countries:
- Top Performers: Singapore leads the index, granting its citizens access to 195 destinations. Japan ranks second with 193 destinations.
- Global Trends: Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the list with access to just 26 destinations. The UAE continues its meteoric rise, gaining visa-free access to 72 additional destinations over the last decade, now ranking tenth.
Understanding the Henley Passport Index Methodology
The Henley Passport Index uses data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and additional research to assess global mobility. A destination is considered visa-free if it allows entry without a prior visa, including visa-on-arrival, visitor permits, or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This rigorous methodology ensures an accurate representation of passport strength.
How to Obtain a Canadian Passport
A Canadian passport is available only to Canadian citizens. Here’s how to qualify:
Eligibility Criteria
- Birthright Citizenship: Individuals born in Canada automatically qualify.
- Citizenship by Descent: Children of Canadian citizens may inherit citizenship status, subject to interim measures.
- Naturalization: Non-citizens must follow these steps:
- Obtain Canadian permanent residency (PR) through various pathways, such as Express Entry or provincial nominee programs.
- Meet Canada’s physical presence requirement by living in the country for at least three of the past five years.
- File and pay taxes as required.
- Pass the citizenship test and take the oath of citizenship.
Becoming a Canadian citizen generally takes over three years but is a worthwhile investment for the privileges it offers, including a globally respected passport.
The Canadian passport’s ranking among the world’s best highlights its exceptional value in facilitating global travel. With visa-free access to 188 destinations and new opportunities emerging in countries like Egypt and Brazil, Canadian travelers enjoy unparalleled mobility. While challenges such as new visa restrictions in some nations persist, Canada’s consistent ranking underscores the strength and prestige of its passport.
