Singapore Leads Global Passport Access, Switzerland Ranks Ninth

Swiss Passport Secures Ninth Global Position

The Swiss passport currently ranks ninth globally for travel freedom, according to data released by Passport Reports on Tuesday, 22 September 2026. Holders of a Swiss passport can enter 119 countries without requiring a visa. An additional 54 destinations permit entry with a visa issued upon arrival or through other specific entry requirements.

For 25 countries, a standard visa application process is necessary before travel. This comprehensive assessment by Passport Reports provides a detailed overview of international travel access based on citizenship.

Regional Access for Swiss Travellers

Swiss citizens enjoy extensive access across various regions. Within Europe, 44 destinations are accessible without a visa. However, travel to Russia requires a visa upon arrival, and entry to the United Kingdom necessitates an electronic travel authorisation.

For North and South America, the Gulf states, and the Caribbean, Swiss passport holders can typically gain entry with either a visa on arrival or an electronic travel authorisation. Passport Reports indicates that access to Oceania stands at nearly 93 per cent, while Asia offers 82 per cent access.

The Middle East provides 82.4 per cent access, Central Asia 80 per cent, and Africa 72.2 per cent, all figures including visa-on-arrival or eTA options.

Asia Dominates Global Passport Strength

Globally, Asian nations demonstrate leading passport power. Singapore holds the top position worldwide, with its passport allowing visa-free entry to 129 destinations. The United Arab Emirates follows closely, securing the second spot with 128 visa-free countries, as detailed by Passport Reports.

In contrast, Afghanistan ranks last in the global index, with its citizens able to visit only three countries without a visa. When compared within Europe, the Swiss passport's standing is more modest, ranking 13th out of 47 European nations.

Several European Union members, including Spain, Luxembourg, Belgium, France, Italy, Germany, and Greece, along with Nordic countries, offer greater visa-free access than Switzerland.

Switzerland's Entry Policies and Asian Impact

Despite its strong global passport ranking, Switzerland applies stricter entry requirements than those imposed on its own citizens. The country ranks 92nd out of 199 nations in the Welcoming Index, according to Passport Reports. This means that citizens from many countries who welcome Swiss travellers without restrictions often need a visa to enter Switzerland.

For Asian travellers, particularly those from high-ranking passport nations like Singapore or the UAE, this disparity could influence travel plans.

While Swiss citizens enjoy broad access to Asian markets, reciprocal ease of entry into Switzerland for Asian business and leisure visitors may not always be present, potentially affecting tourism flows and business engagement from the region.