10 Best Passports you Should Acquire in 2022

Gone are the days when the best passports Africans coveted and aimed at acquiring were the American or British passports. The citizenship of these countries was a top priority for many, not only because of the global travel access it offers but for numerous economic opportunities. 

To be clear, though, the rush for American or British citizenship, especially for people from developing nations, is still high; the craze is not what it used to be. 

It’s been extensively chronicled how much has changed since the pandemic began and the influence of Brexit on the waning power of a British passport, and how many have sought out second passports for better security and mobility.

The best passports anyone seeking dual citizenship should consider are now in Europe and Asia. In 2021, the Henley Passport Index ranked Germany as the most powerful passport in Europe, with visa-free travel to 190 destinations worldwide – one of the primary definitions of a powerful passport. 

Japan and Singapore tied for first place in that recent ranking, with visa-free access to 192 destinations. With 185 destinations, the United Kingdom and the United States tied for sixth place.

According to Henley, the United States was in first place seven years ago and had been steadily declining year after year. Both countries were briefly restricted to only 75 countries (the United States) and fewer than 70 countries (the United Kingdom) during the pandemic. 

According to Nomad Capitalist, these are 10 of the best passports you should aim at acquiring in 2022.

Luxembourg 

Nomad Passport Score: 115 

Luxembourg has clinched the number one spot. It has remained at the top of the list for the fourth year in a row, after rising from #10 only four years ago. Luxembourg’s modest size gives its residents a lot of freedom and a good reputation as a country that doesn’t disturb anyone. And, for expatriates living there, naturalization as a citizen has just become easier. This country provides visa-free travel to 189 countries.

Sweden

Score on the Nomad Passport: 114

Sweden has remained at the top of this ranking for a long time. Due to a high level of personal freedom and an excellent global reputation, it ties for the second-best passport this year. Swedish Passport holders can travel to 188 countries without having a visa.

Ireland

Score on the Nomad Passport: 114

Ireland has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe, yet its passport has one of the highest visa scores. Travelling as an Irish citizen is often trouble-free due to the country’s outstanding reputation. Citizens of this nation are eligible for visa-free travel to 187 countries.

Switzerland

Score on the Nomad Passport: 113.5

Swiss citizens have a great deal of freedom and privacy. In fact, Switzerland is one of only two non-EU countries to make the top ten. Despite having access to two or three fewer countries than some of its neighbours, Swiss passport holders are among the most well-respected travellers in the world.  

Passport holders can easily access 186 countries without bothering with visa requirements or visas available on arrival.

Belgium

Nomad Passport Score: 113.5

Belgium’s passport is one of the most respected globally, as it is located at the crossroads of Europe. Belgium is known for its high levels of personal freedom and openness and being the home of the European Union. Belgium’s taxes are high, and while loopholes have been closed, the tax system remains straightforward enough for ex-pats. Citizens can easily access 186 countries without having to bother with visa requirements.

Finland

Score on the Nomad Passport: 113

Like the rest of Northern Europe, Finland has one of the best passports in the world. Despite being ranked first only a few years ago, a Finnish passport still allows visa-free travel to a vast number of countries, but due to more stringent tax regulations for expatriates, the country’s score dropped. Finland’s passport gives access to 189 countries without a visa.

Portugal

Score on the Nomad Passport: 113

Portugal is an open country that possesses one of Europe’s best passports. Portuguese citizens are also well-liked worldwide, with visa-free travel to places such as South Africa, which is not available to other European Union citizens. Portugal is friendly to foreigners, with a popular Golden Visa scheme and tax exemption program. This country citizens can travel to 187 countries without a visa.

Netherlands

Nomad Passport Score: 112 

The Netherlands enters the top ten for the first time this year, rising from 16th place last year to eighth place. This is due to the Netherlands’ recent decision to give dual citizenship in particular circumstances. It has a fantastic EU location and a favourable passport perception. This country passport holders are not required to obtain a visa to travel to 188 destinations.

Singapore

Score on the Nomad Passport: 112

For the second year in a row, Singapore makes the top ten. It has quickly risen to prominence as one of the world’s most important trade centres and a highly desirable location to live. Visa-free travel to 192 countries and territories is possible with this passport.

Czech Republic 

Score on the Nomad Passport: 112

The Czech Republic, which has been in the top ten for two years in a row, is now tied for eighth place. The Czech passport has only grown stronger since joining the EU in 2004. Its passport offers visa-free travel to 185 different countries.

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