The Cuban passport has once again been ranked among the world's least powerful, according to the most recent update from the Henley Passport Index released this Tuesday. As per the report, Cuba stands at the 76th position globally out of 99, allowing visa-free access to merely 60 out of 227 evaluated international destinations. This places it near the bottom of the list alongside countries such as Haiti, Libya, and North Korea.
While Singapore leads the global ranking with visa-free entry to 193 countries, followed by Japan and South Korea with 190 visa-free destinations, the Cuban passport lags behind by more than 130 destinations compared to the top positions. Even within Latin America, Cuba is among the lowest-ranked, outperforming only Haiti, which is at the 83rd position with access to 52 destinations.
Diplomatic Isolation and Limited Mobility
The report highlights that the poor performance of the Cuban passport is a reflection of diplomatic isolation, limited reciprocity in bilateral agreements, and the international perception of migration and political risks associated with the country. Unlike other nations in the region that have improved mobility through treaties and migration liberalization, the Cuban regime maintains restrictive policies both for its citizens and foreign visitors.
“The countries that top the index are those that have engaged in active diplomacy, whereas less integrated nations continue to lose access,” explained Christian H. Kaelin, chairman of Henley & Partners and creator of the index. In contrast to Cuba, several Latin American countries have attained middle and high positions in the ranking. For instance, Chile is positioned at 14th with visa-free access to 176 destinations. Brazil and Argentina share the 16th spot with access to 170 countries, while Mexico is at 22 with 158 destinations. Uruguay and Costa Rica are also among the top 25 in the continent.
Stagnation Amid Global Progress
Since 2006, the average number of visa-free destinations for citizens worldwide has increased from 58 to 109 by 2025. However, this progress has not been mirrored for Cubans, who continue to face lengthy requirements, delays, and denials at foreign embassies. Henley & Partners notes that over 80 passports have improved their position in the past decade, while only 16 have fallen back, including Cuba, Venezuela, and Haiti.
The report concludes that without a significant shift in Cuba's foreign policy and a real diplomatic rapprochement with multiple countries, the island's passport will remain among the least functional in the world.
Cuban Passport: Challenges and Global Context
Why is the Cuban passport ranked so low globally?
The Cuban passport is ranked low due to diplomatic isolation, lack of bilateral agreements, and perceived migration and political risks.
How does the Cuban passport compare within Latin America?
In Latin America, the Cuban passport is among the lowest-ranked, only surpassing Haiti.
What countries have the most powerful passports?
Singapore, Japan, and South Korea have the most powerful passports, with access to the highest number of visa-free destinations.