Afghanistan’s passport has been ranked as the weakest in the world for 2025, according to a new report from Nomad Capitalist, a financial and immigration consultancy that evaluates global mobility and citizenship options.
At the top of the list is Ireland, which the firm named the most powerful passport globally this year, citing strong international credibility, favorable tax policies, personal freedoms and the ability to hold dual citizenship.
The index ranks 199 countries and territories using five weighted criteria: visa-free travel (50 percent), taxation policies (20 percent), global perception (10 percent), dual citizenship options (10 percent), and personal freedom (10 percent). Unlike traditional rankings, which often focus solely on the number of visa-free destinations, this index takes a broader approach to passport strength.
Switzerland, Greece and Portugal followed Ireland in the top four, reflecting a trend in which European countries dominated the highest ranks—taking nine of the top 10 spots.
At the other end of the scale, Afghanistan’s passport was placed last, alongside those of Yemen, Eritrea, Iraq and Pakistan. The report attributes Afghanistan’s low ranking to severe restrictions on civil liberties, the lack of a legal framework for dual citizenship, and the country’s negative image in international forums.
While Asian countries like Japan and Singapore are often recognized for offering strong travel freedom, they were ranked lower in this index due to strict tax regimes and limited dual citizenship rights.
Nomad Capitalist said the index is designed for individuals seeking second citizenship and looking for countries with more favorable policies for personal and financial freedom.
