Poland’s passport has entered the global elite of travel documents, ranked as the seventh most powerful in the world according to the latest Henley Passport Index. Polish citizens can now travel to 185 countries without the need for a visa, matching the access granted to holders of Maltese, Australian and Czech passports. According to the ranking, the Polish passport is now stronger than the British one.

The ranking, based on data from the International Air Transport Association, reflects not only travel convenience but also the diplomatic and economic standing of each nation. Singapore continues to hold the top position, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 193 destinations, followed by South Korea with 190 and Japan with 189. 

In a notable shift, the United States has fallen out of the top ten for the first time, now occupying twelfth place with visa-free access to 180 destinations.

Poland’s rise to seventh place marks a significant recognition of its growing global presence and the trust its citizens enjoy abroad. It also offers tangible benefits to individuals, from reduced bureaucracy and travel costs to greater ease in pursuing business, educational and personal opportunities overseas. 

The improvement reflects Poland’s integration within the European Union and the Schengen zone, as well as its expanding network of bilateral relationships.

Yet, the ranking should not be seen as static. Visa policies are subject to political changes, security considerations and international negotiations, meaning a country’s position can shift quickly. Although visa-free access does not guarantee unrestricted entry, the length of stay and purpose of visit may still be limited, it remains a key indicator of global mobility.

Poland’s passport now stands among the world’s most advantageous, offering its citizens unprecedented freedom of movement. 

Source: Polskie Radio

Photo: @nexta_tv/X

Tomasz Modrzejewski