In today’s globalized world, passports are often seen as keys to exploring different countries. However, not all passports are created equal. Some passports offer more travel freedom, while others come with significant limitations.
These limitations can affect the ease with which holders can travel, including visa-free access, restrictions, and even the number of countries a passport holder can visit without jumping through hoops.
In 2024, the strength of a passport is largely determined by the number of countries its holders can visit without needing a visa or with visa-on-arrival access. Some passports are simply weaker than others when it comes to international mobility. Let’s take a look at the top 10 weakest passports in the world in 2024, according to Best Diplomats where holders face the most travel restrictions.
1. Afghanistan
Afghanistan has long been recognized as having one of the weakest passports in the world. Afghan passport holders can visit only 27 countries or territories without a visa or with visa-on-arrival access. Years of political instability and conflict have made it difficult for Afghanistan to secure stronger passport agreements with other nations. This limited travel freedom makes it hard for Afghan citizens to explore the world.
2. Iraq
Iraq’s passport is similarly limited in terms of travel freedom, with holders able to access only 29 countries without a visa. Decades of conflict, war, and economic instability have contributed to Iraq’s weak international standing. Many countries impose strict visa requirements on Iraqi passport holders, making global mobility more challenging.
3. Syria
Syria, still recovering from the devastating civil war that has ravaged the country for over a decade, ranks among the weakest passports in the world. Syrian passport holders can visit only 30 countries or territories without a visa. Like Afghanistan and Iraq, Syria’s passport is restricted due to the country’s ongoing political instability and strained diplomatic relations.
4. Pakistan
Pakistan’s passport ranks as one of the weakest in the world, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to just 34 destinations. While Pakistani citizens can visit some countries without a visa, many nations impose strict requirements for those from Pakistan, limiting the opportunities for travel, business, and tourism abroad.
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5. Yemen
In 2024, Yemen’s passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only 34 countries. Yemen’s passport is hindered by the ongoing conflict in the country, as well as political isolation, making it difficult for its citizens to travel internationally without a visa. The situation has left many Yemenis with few options for global mobility.
6. Eritrea
Eritrea has one of the least powerful passports in Africa. Eritrean passport holders can travel to only 38 countries without a visa. The country’s political and economic challenges, along with strained international relations, contribute to the passport’s limited strength. Many countries have strict visa requirements for Eritrean citizens, making international travel a complicated affair.
7. Sudan
Sudan, another African nation with a weak passport, offers visa-free access to just 39 countries. While Sudanese citizens can visit some countries without a visa, many countries require Sudanese passport holders to apply for a visa before entry. This makes travel and international movement challenging for those with Sudanese passports.
8. North Korea
North Korea’s passport is highly restrictive, with its citizens allowed to visit only around 40 countries or territories without a visa. Due to the North Korean government’s tight control over its citizens and the country’s overall isolation, it is difficult for passport holders to travel freely outside the country. The government strictly monitors and limits international travel for its citizens.
9. Libya
Libya, though not as restricted as some other countries on this list, still ranks among the weakest in terms of passport strength. Libyan passport holders can visit just 40 countries without needing a visa. The ongoing political instability and strained relations with several countries have hindered the country’s diplomatic ties and passport agreements.
10. Somalia
Somalia rounds out the list with one of the weakest passports globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only 41 countries. Decades of civil conflict and political unrest have severely limited Somalia’s international standing, making it difficult for its citizens to travel without encountering bureaucratic hurdles and visa restrictions.
Why Are These Passports Weak?
The strength of a passport is mainly determined by the number of countries that allow citizens to enter without a visa. Several factors contribute to the “weakness” of a passport, including:
1. Political Instability: Countries that are dealing with conflict or political instability often find themselves isolated from the international community. This can result in visa restrictions and a lack of diplomatic agreements with other nations.
2. Economic Conditions: Nations that struggle economically may not be able to establish the kind of strong diplomatic ties that would lead to visa-free agreements with other countries.
3. Geopolitical Relations: Diplomatic relations between countries play a major role in determining visa policies. Countries with strained relationships may impose strict visa requirements on each other.
4. Security Concerns: In some cases, countries with higher levels of crime, terrorism, or instability are considered riskier by other nations, leading to restricted travel options.
The Impact of Weak Passports
Having a weak passport significantly impedes individuals from accessing global opportunities, hampering economic integration and investment. Limited travel options hinder talent exchange, restricting citizens from pursuing educational and work prospects abroad. This lack of mobility stifles personal growth and professional development, exacerbating economic disparities.
Moreover, businesses encounter hurdles in expanding internationally, facing barriers to market access and talent recruitment. Ultimately, weak passports constrain socioeconomic advancement, hindering both individuals and economies from thriving in an increasingly interconnected world.
Conclusion
While these passports are among the weakest in the world, it’s important to remember that the strength of a passport doesn’t define the value or potential of a country’s citizens. Many individuals from these countries still lead fulfilling and successful lives despite the challenges posed by their passports.
