Passports with the Lowest Value in the World in 2024

When it comes to global mobility, not all passports hold equal value. Some passports offer their holders access to a wide range of destinations, while others come with heavy restrictions. 

The Henley Passport Index ranks passports based on how many countries they can access without a prior visa, through visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements. In 2024, several passports fall on the lower end of this scale, granting access to fewer than 40 countries. Here are the passports with the least global access, highlighting the reasons behind their limitations.

Afghanistan

The Afghan passport ranks at the very bottom of the Henley Passport Index, granting access to just 27 destinations. This low mobility stems from ongoing security concerns and strained international relations, making it challenging for Afghan citizens to travel without extensive visa applications.

Iraq

With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 29 countries, Iraq ranks among the weakest passports globally. Safety and security concerns, as well as limited diplomatic ties, contribute to the restrictions that Iraqi passport holders face when traveling abroad.

Syria

Syrian passport holders have access to only 30 countries without a visa in advance. Due to prolonged conflict and displacement, Syrian citizens face significant travel barriers. Many nations impose strict visa requirements due to safety concerns related to Syria’s political situation.

Pakistan

The Pakistani passport provides visa-free access to 33 countries. This limitation is largely influenced by the country’s global reputation and security issues, particularly in Western nations where visa requirements are stringent for Pakistani travellers.

Yemen

With access to only 34 countries, Yemeni passport holders face restricted mobility due to Yemen’s ongoing civil conflict and political instability. Many countries have imposed strict travel requirements on Yemeni citizens, limiting their access to other parts of the world.

Somalia

Somali citizens have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 35 destinations. Political instability and a lack of international partnerships restrict Somali passport holders from traveling freely, which affects their overall mobility and passport strength.

Palestinian Territories

Residents of the Palestinian Territories can travel to just 38 destinations without a prior visa. The complex political situation in the region and limited international recognition affect their passport’s strength and travel access, particularly in countries that do not recognize Palestine as a separate state.

Nepal

The Nepali passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to 39 countries. Limited economic influence, restricted international agreements, and diplomatic challenges result in low access for Nepali citizens, especially in developed nations.

North Korea

North Korean citizens can travel to only 40 countries without a visa. Due to North Korea’s highly restrictive foreign policies and isolated diplomatic relations, North Korean passport holders face significant travel restrictions across much of the world.

Libya

Libya rounds out the list with access to 41 destinations. Political unrest and security concerns have led many countries to impose strict travel requirements on Libyan citizens, limiting their freedom to travel internationally. When it comes to global mobility, not all passports hold equal value. Some passports offer their holders access to a wide range of destinations, while others come with heavy restrictions.