Manuel Garrido The Canada passport ranking is among the highest in the world. This passport is more than just a travel document. It provides global mobility and various business opportunities for those seeking visa-free access to 186 countries.
Canada has a reputation for being one of the friendliest and safest countries in the world. It is a nation with a significant immigrant population in its major cities, and it welcomes people from every nationality who want to do business or invest in the country. So, why is a Canadian passport strong? What are the advantages that passport holders have that permanent residents lack? We have all the answers. Let’s take a closer look at the current Canada passport ranking and everything it offers.
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What is the Global Passport Index?
The Global Citizen Solutions Passport Index is a global ranking system that measures passports based on global mobility. It uses quantitative scoring and exclusive data to track freedom of movement or the ability to travel visa-free.
The index is an interactive online tool that compares the ranks of the world’s passports. The Passport Index determines rankings using the following:
- Visa-on-arrival access
- Visa-free arrival
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
- Visitor permits
- Prior visa required
The Canadian passport is a renowned travel document for global mobility and freedom. It has some of the highest total visa-free scores, making it a welcoming country for foreign nationals. Canada’s travel openness has grown, creating a benchmark for international travel, investment, business, and employment opportunities.
Canada Passport Ranking in 2025
Canada ranks 14th in our Global Passport Index. Canadian passport holders have access to visa-free travel to over 180 countries. That includes destinations with visa on arrival, visa-free, and electronic travel authorization (eTA).
Our ranking system provides three indexes, each with a different score for the Canadian passport rank.
These include:
- The Enhanced Mobility Index Holds the most weight (50 percent). It is based on the number of countries the passport holder has visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to, alongside the level of “attractiveness” in terms of quality of life standards and tourism interest.
Canada’s ranking: 29th
- The Investment Index: Holds 25 percent of the overall calculation and is based on the country’s economic strength, looking at financial prosperity and ease of doing business.
Canada’s ranking: 18th
- The Quality of Life Index: This component accounts for 25 percent of the overall calculation. Six components provide exclusive data related to quality of life. This includes the impact this travel document has on Canadian passport holders regarding overall socioeconomic development, cost of living, ease of access, environmental sustainability, etc.
Canada’s ranking: 12th
For detailed information on where Canada sits in the indexes and its overall ranking, see Canada’s country profile here .
How strong is the Canadian passport?
The Canadian passport is among the most powerful documents in the world. The passport’s strength is determined by visa-on-arrival or visa-free access to various countries. The country has a strong economy, stable international relations, and minimal visa restrictions.
Canadian passport holders can easily travel to 186 destinations, obtain dual citizenship, and invest in international business opportunities. Canada passport strength can also be seen in the growing number of foreign nationals applying for Canadian citizenship. Many entrepreneurs and business moguls from other countries want to invest in Canada and gain permanent residency (PR).
The Canada citizenship by investment program can provide a PR status, eventually leading to Canadian citizenship. The high ranking of the Canadian passport makes the country a popular location for investors.
What makes the Canadian passport stand out?
Canadian citizenship offers many advantages to passport holders. These include:
- Easy access to 186 countries for business, education, and tourism purposes
- Visa-free access that saves time
- Dual citizenship recognition
- Healthcare coverage
- Social benefits
- Excellent social security
- Strong diplomatic ties for diplomatic passport holders
Changes to the Canadian Passport
Canada ranks 14th in our Global Passport Index, which shows a steady improvement over the years. Different countries changed their requirements for Canadian passport holders, affecting global mobility. As of 2025, Canadian passport holders have easy access to 186 countries. Canadian citizens may enter Schengen area countries without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
As of December 1, 2024, travelers can apply online for an Egypt eVisa for tourism. From April 10, 2025, Brazil will require visas for tourists and business travelers from Canada, Australia, and the U.S. Also, Togo and Gabon have recently imposed visa requirements for Canadian citizens. Canadians who wish to travel to these countries must apply for a visa beforehand.
Why does a Canadian passport matter for new immigrants?
Foreign immigrants can become permanent residents (PRs) through various immigration programs. Permanent residence allows immigrants to reside and work in Canada. After applicants meet the requirements for a PR status, they can apply for Canadian citizenship.
Citizenship provides a passport, which is more than just a travel document. It offers:
- Global mobility: Access to the Schengen area, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific regions.
- Security and protection: Canada is a politically and economically stable country with a positive image and influence on global affairs.
- Quality healthcare: Canada’s healthcare system provides several funding options that reduce the costs of treatments, dental care, and prescription medication.
- Quality education: The country is known for its commitment to education. It has the highest-ranking universities in the world with the freedom to accept international students.
Frequently Asked Questions About Canada Passport Ranking
What is the current ranking of the Canadian passport?
Canada takes the 14th rank on our Passport Index. Various circumstances, such as visa-free travel, quality of life, and socioeconomic development, affect the ranking. Canadians get access to high mobility, job opportunities, and the freedom to travel to various destinations for education.
Is a Canadian passport powerful?
Our 2025 Passport Index indicates that the Canadian passport is a very powerful passport. Canadian citizenship provides a number of benefits, such as the potential to explore 186 countries, securing extensive healthcare coverage, and completing various business investments.
What is the Henley Passport Index ranking for Canada?
The Henley Passport Index ranks Canada at number 7 in the world. It is the only index that relies on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The Henley Passport Index shows a very high mobility score, ranking Canada below the United States.
Has the ranking of the Canadian passport changed in recent years?
Yes, the Passport Index has changed over the years. In 2014, Canada ranked 2nd in the Henley Passport Index, almost earning the top spot. But, during COVID, the rankings were steadily decreasing. The government implemented many changes to boost global mobility, economy, and political stability.
How does the Canadian passport compare to the US passport in terms of ranking?
The U.S. passport ranks 6th on the Global Citizen Solutions Passport Index, whereas Canada ranks 14th. Both countries have special passports with extensive travel mobility and similar visa-free or visa-on-arrival access. However, the U.S. surpasses Canada in terms of global access.
