16/02/2026
Recently, the 2026 Henley Passport Index, published by the UK-based consulting firm Henley & Partners, was released. The ranking covers 199 passports and 227 travel destinations worldwide.
This index is no ordinary ranking — with a 20-year history, it is the only passport index based on exclusive official data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It is widely regarded as the “gold standard” for assessing global passport mobility.
According to the latest results, Singapore has retained the top position. Japan and South Korea are tied for second place, while Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland share third place with visa-free access to 186 destinations. The results show that Asian passports continue to lead in global mobility.
Hong Kong has risen to 13th place globally this year, climbing three spots compared to last year, with visa-free access to 173 destinations. The Hong Kong Immigration Department states on its official website that holders of the Hong Kong SAR passport currently enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 174 countries and territories. It remains the strongest passport among Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
In this year’s ranking, Macau ranks 32nd, Taiwan 33rd, and Mainland China 59th — the latter moving up one place from last year, marking a notable improvement.
In 2025 alone, the Hong Kong SAR passport saw five enhancements to its visa-free privileges:
• January 15: Saudi Arabia introduced visa-on-arrival access for Hong Kong SAR passport holders at designated entry points, allowing stays of up to 90 days.
• May 13: Qatar upgraded entry arrangements for Hong Kong SAR passport holders from visa-on-arrival to visa-free access, permitting stays of up to 30 days.
• May 15: The United Arab Emirates implemented visa-free access for Hong Kong SAR passport holders for up to 30 days.
• May 15: Oman extended the visa-free stay period for Hong Kong SAR passport holders from 10 days to 14 days.
• November 25: Algeria introduced visa-free tourist entry for Hong Kong SAR passport holders for stays of up to 14 days.
The continued strengthening of the Hong Kong passport’s global mobility reflects the international community’s recognition of Hong Kong’s rule of law, economic vitality, and social stability.
