According to Maple News, Canada’s passport is again recognized as one of the most powerful travel documents in the world, securing the seventh spot in the 2025 Henley Passport Index. This index, compiled by global consultancy Henley & Partners, evaluates passports based on the number of countries their holders can access without a visa.
In 2025, Canadian passport holders can enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations, placing Canada in a three-way tie for seventh place alongside Malta and Poland. This ranking remains unchanged from 2024, but is one notch higher than in 2023, when Canada was in eighth place.
Notably, this marks the first time since the index began in 2006 that Canada has outperformed the United States in the rankings. The U.S. dropped to ninth place this year, a decline from its seventh position in 2024.
According to the latest rankings, recent changes in visa policies have contributed to Canada’s strong performance. Egypt and Brazil have removed visa requirements for Canadian travelers, expanding access to more destinations. However, Canadians now require visas to enter Gabon and Togo.
Despite its current standing, the report highlights that Canada has experienced a slow decline over the past decade. A decade ago, in 2015, Canada was in fourth place, indicating a gradual shift in global mobility patterns.
The Henley Passport Index defines visa-free access as the ability to enter a destination without a visa, obtain a visa on arrival, use a visitor’s permit, or travel with an electronic travel authorization (eTA).
A strong passport plays a crucial role in global mobility, making it an important factor for individuals and families considering immigration or travel opportunities. For prospective immigrants to Canada, the passport’s global strength is one of many reasons why the country remains a top choice for newcomers.
Maple News continues to track global trends that impact immigration and international mobility, bringing updates and insights to help individuals navigate pathways to permanent residence and eventual citizenship in Canada.