Kenya Surpasses China in Passport Power Ranking
Visalist, an international visa ranking website, released its most recent global passport ranking in June 2023. Kenya remained a top performer.
The country surpassed first-world nations such as China and India to enter the top 100 in the global ranking while maintaining its position as East Africa’s most powerful passport.
In addition, Kenyans can travel visa-free to 43 countries and apply for a visa upon arrival in 22 countries based solely on their passport.
Kenya was ranked 98th in the world, tied with Suriname, and one place above global superpowers China and Thailand at 99th. India occupied the 111th position worldwide.
Visalist indicates that Kenyans can visit 43 countries without a visa, whereas Chinese citizens can only do so in 33.
In 33 countries, Chinese citizens must also apply for a visa upon arrival. Only one indicator of passport strength favored China over Kenya, with 132 countries requiring visas for Chinese citizens but 138 countries requiring visas for Kenyans.
Other East African countries’ passport rankings were as follows: Tanzania (101), Uganda (108), Rwanda (120), South Sudan (137), Burundi (137), and Democratic Republic of the Congo (141).
ALSO READ: President Ruto Appoints Atwoli to Select Next DPP
Advantages of a high passport ranking
According to Visalist, a robust passport affords citizens greater travel freedom, business opportunities, educational opportunities, employment opportunities, and cultural experiences.
The organization states, “Holders of a strong passport have the freedom to travel to a variety of countries without the hassle of obtaining visas, as well as a world of business opportunities.”
A strong passport facilitates the pursuit of education and employment opportunities in other countries, as well as the exploration of new cultures and experiences through increased travel.
Factors influencing passport ranking
Due to visa requirements, diplomatic relations, security risks, and economic factors, a passport can gain or lose strength.
Visalist explains, “Countries with strong diplomatic relations tend to have higher-ranked passports, whereas those with poor relations tend to have lower-ranked passports.”
According to Visalist, passports from nations with high security risks, such as those with a high rate of terrorism or political instability, have lower rankings.
“Countries with strong economies have passports with higher rankings, as it is believed that their citizens are less likely to overstay their visas or engage in illegal activities while traveling,” the ranking body explains.
Kenya Surpasses China in Passport Power Ranking
HEY READER. PLEASE SUPPORT THIS SITE BY CLICKING ADS. DON’T FORGET TO HIT THE NOTIFICATION BELL FOR MORE UPDATES AROUND THE GLOBE.
