Canada’s 2025 Passport Ranking: Still a Top 10 Global Power
Canada Ranks Among the World’s Most Powerful Passports in 2025
The latest global passport rankings are in, and there’s good news for Canadians! According to the 2025 Henley Passport Index, Canada holds firm in the top 10 most powerful passports in the world. Even though it slipped slightly in the rankings compared to earlier this year, the Canadian passport remains a solid document for international travel—offering visa-free access to a whopping 183 countries.
Let’s dive into what this means, how Canada stacks up against other countries, and what makes the Canadian passport such a valuable travel companion.
Key Highlights
- Canada ranks 9th globally in the 2025 Henley Passport Index.
- Canadian passport holders can visit 183 destinations visa-free.
- The passport remains more powerful than the U.S., which has dropped out of the top 10.
- Canada’s position has fallen slightly from earlier 2025 rankings (7th to 9th).
- The Henley Passport Index is based on visa-free travel access to 227 global destinations.
- Want a Canadian passport? You’ll need to become a Canadian citizen first.
Canada’s Passport Power in 2025
In the most recent Henley Passport Index update (October 2025), Canada ranks ninth out of 199 countries. This ranking is based on how many destinations Canadians can travel to without needing to apply for a visa in advance.
With visa-free access to 183 global destinations, Canadians continue to enjoy one of the most convenient passports for international travel. From tropical beach vacations to European city hopping, a Canadian passport opens a lot of doors—literally and figuratively.
How Canada Compares Globally
Although Canada slipped slightly from its earlier spot this year, it’s still solidly in the global top 10. Here’s a look at how the top passports stack up in 2025:
| Rank | Passport | Visa-Free Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Singapore | 193 |
| 2 | South Korea | 190 |
| 3 | Japan | 189 |
| 4 | Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, Switzerland | 188 |
| 5 | Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, Netherlands | 187 |
| 6 | Greece, Hungary, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sweden | 186 |
| 7 | Australia, Czech Republic, Malta, Poland | 185 |
| 8 | Croatia, Estonia, Slovakia, Slovenia, UAE, United Kingdom | 184 |
| 9 | Canada | 183 |
| 10 | Latvia, Liechtenstein | 182 |
Notably, the U.S. passport has dropped out of the top 10 for the first time in two decades, while Canada holds strong at number nine. So if you’re travelling with a little red maple leaf on your passport, you’re in good shape!
Canada’s Movement in the Rankings
Earlier in 2025, the Canadian passport was ranked higher—at seventh place in January, and eighth by July. At that time, Canadians could access 188 and 184 destinations visa-free, respectively. While the drop to ninth place and 183 destinations isn’t dramatic, it reflects a broader trend of global shifts in visa policies and travel agreements.
Still, Canada’s passport continues to outperform many others and remains a top-tier travel document. For perspective, it’s currently ranked three spots ahead of the U.S., which now sits outside the top 10 for the first time since the index began 20 years ago.
What is the Henley Passport Index?
The Henley Passport Index is one of the most widely respected global rankings of passport strength. It’s updated quarterly and uses data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), covering 199 passports and 227 destinations worldwide.
Each passport is assigned a “Visa score,” which reflects the number of countries and territories the holder can enter without a visa, with a visa on arrival, or with an electronic travel authorization (eTA). However, if a traditional visa or e-visa is required before travel, the destination doesn’t count as visa-free.
How to Get a Canadian Passport
Interested in getting your hands on one of the world’s most powerful passports? First, you’ll need to become a Canadian citizen. This can happen by birth in Canada, through naturalization, or in some cases, by inheriting Canadian citizenship from a parent.
Once you’re a citizen, applying for a passport is fairly straightforward. You can apply by mail or in person at a Service Canada location.
What You’ll Need to Apply
- Completed application form (PPTC 153)
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (birth certificate or citizenship certificate)
- Valid ID (e.g., driver’s license or previous passport)
- Two identical passport photos
You’ll also need a guarantor and two references—not family members—to complete your application. When applying, you can choose either a 5-year or 10-year passport, depending on your travel needs.
Processing times usually range from 10 to 20 business days, though faster options are available if you’re in a rush.
Why This Matters
Having a strong passport like Canada’s means easier, more spontaneous international travel. Whether you’re a business traveller, a snowbird heading south, or just someone with a serious case of wanderlust, a Canadian passport opens doors—literally and figuratively. And it’s not just about convenience. A high-ranking passport can also reflect a country’s diplomatic relationships and global reputation.
Looking to start your Canadian immigration journey? If you’re not yet a citizen but want to be, there are many pathways available, including provincial streams like the Manitoba PNP.
Final Thoughts
Canada may have dropped a couple of spots in the most recent passport ranking, but it still holds strong as one of the most powerful travel documents in the world. With visa-free access to 183 destinations and a global reputation for reliability, the Canadian passport is something to be proud of.
Whether you already hold one or are working toward becoming a Canadian citizen, it’s clear that carrying the maple leaf comes with some serious perks.
Want to explore how you can become a Canadian citizen and eventually get your own passport? Start your journey here and see if you’re eligible today!
