LONDON — Henley & Partners released its 2026 Passport Index on Thursday, confirming Canada retained a position among the 10 most powerful passports for visa-free travel. Singapore held the top position globally.

The index, compiled by the London-based residence and citizenship advisory firm using data from the International Air Transport Association, ranks passports by the number of destinations holders can enter without a prior visa. Singapore topped the list with access to more than 190 destinations, followed by Japan and several European Union states.

Canada remained in the top tier, though its visa-free reach trailed the leading Asian and European nations. The United States continued a multi-year decline, slipping further as other countries expanded reciprocal travel agreements.

Dr Christian Kaelin, chairman of Henley & Partners and creator of the index, has argued that mobility reflects a country's diplomatic standing and openness. The widening gap between the strongest and weakest passports underscores global inequalities in freedom of movement.

The ranking drew renewed attention from Canadian travellers and immigration commentators ahead of the summer travel season.