Nomad Passport Index has unveiled the full list of the top 10 most powerful passports globally for the year 2024.
Compiled by consulting firm Nomad Capitalist, the index takes into account various factors such as visa-free travel, taxation policies, global perception, the ability to hold dual citizenship status, and personal freedom.
The index aims to cater to the needs of individuals seeking global citizenship in an era where mobility is increasing, but the preservation of wealth and personal freedoms is becoming more challenging.
Recent global events have unfortunately led to a decrease in visa-free travel for many passports.
Nomad Capitalist’s Passport Index tracks the strengths and weaknesses of each passport, assigning scores based on five criteria: Visa-free travel (50%), Taxation policies (20%), Global perception (10%), Ability to hold dual citizenship (10%), and Personal freedom (10%), which include factors like freedom of the press and mandatory military service.
The top 10 passports for 2024, according to the report, are as follows:
Switzerland
Switzerland’s commitment to liberty and privacy catapulted it to the top of the passport index. Rising from fifth to first in 2023, it remains one of only three non-EU countries in the top ten.
Ireland
Ireland, maintaining its ascent, secured second place this year after finishing third last year. Despite a slight tweak in corporate tax rates, its passport visa scores remain exceptionally high.
Portugal
Portugal boasts one of Europe’s premier passports, offering its citizens widespread acceptance and visa-free travel even to destinations not accessible to other EU nationals.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg, previously a top-three contender, slips to fourth place this year. Despite its small size, the prosperous EU member state provides its citizens with considerable freedom and a strong passport perception. Expats benefit from recently eased naturalisation processes.
Finland
In Northern Europe, Finland’s passport remains highly esteemed despite losing its former top position. Offering visa-free travel to numerous countries, it ranks among the best globally. However, stricter tax policies for expats contributed to a joint fourth-place position in the index.
UAE (United Arab Emirates)
After a remarkable ascent to first place last year, the United Arab Emirates has slipped slightly, now tied for sixth. Its impressive score stems from recent changes allowing foreigners to apply for dual citizenship, along with the travel privileges, business environment, and favourable tax system associated with a UAE passport, maintaining its high standing in the 2024 rankings.
Netherlands
The Netherlands emerges as a newcomer in the top ten passports, excelling in travel convenience and personal freedom. However, strict dual citizenship laws slightly diminish its overall index score.
Norway
Norway joins the top 10 this year, acclaimed for its stellar reputation and passport convenience despite tax challenges. Highly regarded for its ease of travel and positive perceptions, Norway also offers strong personal freedom and access to dual citizenship.
Germany
Germany, known as the ‘engine of Europe’, boasts a high-tech, industrialised economy and relaxed dual citizenship laws. Despite higher taxes, a German passport offers extensive travel freedom.
New Zealand
New Zealand retains its top ten status in the passport index, offering expats a welcoming environment with stunning landscapes. Despite enduring strict lockdown measures during the pandemic, citizens now enjoy significant personal and travel freedom both domestically and internationally.
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