South Africa has solidified its position as one of the continent’s most travel-friendly countries, with its passport ranking third in Africa according to the Henley Passport Index.
Released by Henley & Partners, the index ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a visa. The data is derived from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), the world’s largest travel information database.
While Seychelles and Mauritius claimed the top two spots, South African passport holders can currently enjoy visa-free travel to 106 countries. This places South Africa in the 47th position globally.
Africa’s Passport Powerhouses
The top ten African countries with the most powerful passports are:
- Seychelles
- Mauritius
- South Africa
- Namibia
- Lesotho
- Eswatini
- Kenya
- Malawi
- Tanzania
- Morocco
Singapore reigns supreme globally, with its passport granting access to 195 destinations without visa requirements.
This recognition underscores South Africa’s growing global influence and offers its citizens increased travel freedom.