Not all passports offer the same level of access around the globe. Some countries have limited visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements, making their passports among the least powerful.
According to the Henley Passport Index, which ranks global passport power based on the number of destinations accessible without a prior visa, several countries in 2024 have passports that offer access to less than 40 destinations. You may want to know about some of these countries, so I prepared the ten weakest passports in the world in 2024.
1. Afghanistan
The Afghan passport ranks the weakest globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only 27 destinations. Due to ongoing security concerns and diplomatic challenges, Afghan passport holders face significant travel restrictions worldwide.
2. Iraq
Iraqi passport holders can travel to just 29 countries without a visa in advance. Issues around safety and security and limited diplomatic influence contribute to Iraq’s low passport ranking.
3. Syria
The Syrian passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only 30 destinations. Years of conflict and displacement have led to stricter travel restrictions for Syrian citizens, contributing to the passport ranking.
4. Pakistan
The Pakistani passport is among the weakest, with visa-free access to 33 countries. Pakistan’s global standing and security issues contribute to its limited visa-free travel options, especially in Western countries.
5. Yemen
Yemeni passport holders can travel to only 34 destinations without a visa or with a visa on arrival. Civil conflict and instability in Yemen have led to tighter restrictions, which have led to the global reach of its passport.
6. Somalia
Somalia’s passport ranks low on the Henley Passport Index. It allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 35 countries. Ongoing political instability and limited international partnerships restrict Somali citizens’ travel options.
Read Also: 10 most powerful passports in the World 2024
7. Palestinian Territories
Residents of the Palestinian Territories can access 38 destinations without needing a visa beforehand. The region’s complex political situation and lack of recognition from some countries affect its passport strength.
8. Nepal
The Nepali passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to 39 countries. However, economic factors, limited international agreements, and diplomatic challenges restrict Nepali citizens’ reach in other countries.
9. North Korea
North Korea’s passport permits visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to just 40 countries. Given North Korea’s isolated foreign policy, its citizens face significant limitations when traveling internationally.
10. Libya
With access to only 41 destinations, Libya’s passport ranks among the weakest. Political instability and international concerns regarding security contribute to the restricted mobility for Libyan passport holders.
Travel can be challenging for citizens of these countries and often requires extensive planning due to the need for visas.
