Namibian passport fifth strongest in Africa
Namibia's global passport ranking has improved from 116th in mid-2024 to 62nd in 2025, reflecting a significant rise in its global mobility standing, remaining among the top five countries in Africa.
Namibia has this year again joined the ranks of Africa’s top five nations advancing global mobility, with the 2025 Henley & Partners Passport Index placing the country 62nd worldwide – granting Namibian passport holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 81 destinations.
This marks a notable improvement, underscoring Namibia’s growing diplomatic reach and expanding tourism profile, the report noted.
It said that alongside Seychelles, Mauritius, South Africa and Botswana, Namibia is helping redefine Africa’s position in global travel freedom.
According to the report, these five nations are spearheading a continental shift toward stronger passports, improved governance and increased international engagement.
Bigger reach
For Namibians, a stronger passport translates into greater opportunities for travel, business and cultural exchange.
“A nation’s passport is a reflection of its international standing,” the report notes, “and Namibia’s steady progress signals the success of its long-term diplomatic strategy.”
According to the report, Namibia’s rise in the global ranking is closely tied to its robust tourism sector and strategic foreign policy.
It said that over the past decade, government has prioritised regional cooperation and expanded bilateral agreements to strengthen mobility for its citizens.
At the same time, Namibia’s pristine natural landscapes and commitment to sustainable tourism have positioned it as one of Africa’s most desirable travel destinations.
“This steady tourism growth not only bolsters the economy but also strengthens the country’s global partnerships – a key factor in improving passport power.”
Trave ecosystem
The index, which ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can enter without a visa, shows Africa’s increasing integration into the global travel ecosystem. According to the report, Seychelles continues to lead the continent, followed by Mauritius, South Africa, Botswana and now Namibia, each benefiting from stable governance and proactive diplomacy.
The report notes that Namibia’s inclusion among Africa’s top five passports highlights a broader shift, one where African nations are no longer on the periphery of global mobility but active participants shaping it. Continued investment in diplomacy, tourism and infrastructure will further strengthen Namibia’s international standing.
Seychelles stands out with its enviable access to 155 destinations. This places the island nation in the global ranking of 26th.
Right behind Seychelles is Mauritius, ranked 29th globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 151 destinations. South Africa, one of the most influential nations on the African continent, holds the 48th spot in the global rankings, offering its citizens access to 106 destinations. While this is lower than the ranking of Seychelles and Mauritius, South Africa’s passport is still among the top 50 globally.
Botswana is ranked 57th globally with visa-free access to 88 destinations.
Namibia has this year again joined the ranks of Africa’s top five nations advancing global mobility, with the 2025 Henley & Partners Passport Index placing the country 62nd worldwide – granting Namibian passport holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 81 destinations.
This marks a notable improvement, underscoring Namibia’s growing diplomatic reach and expanding tourism profile, the report noted.
It said that alongside Seychelles, Mauritius, South Africa and Botswana, Namibia is helping redefine Africa’s position in global travel freedom.
According to the report, these five nations are spearheading a continental shift toward stronger passports, improved governance and increased international engagement.
Bigger reach
For Namibians, a stronger passport translates into greater opportunities for travel, business and cultural exchange.
“A nation’s passport is a reflection of its international standing,” the report notes, “and Namibia’s steady progress signals the success of its long-term diplomatic strategy.”
According to the report, Namibia’s rise in the global ranking is closely tied to its robust tourism sector and strategic foreign policy.
It said that over the past decade, government has prioritised regional cooperation and expanded bilateral agreements to strengthen mobility for its citizens.
At the same time, Namibia’s pristine natural landscapes and commitment to sustainable tourism have positioned it as one of Africa’s most desirable travel destinations.
“This steady tourism growth not only bolsters the economy but also strengthens the country’s global partnerships – a key factor in improving passport power.”
Trave ecosystem
The index, which ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can enter without a visa, shows Africa’s increasing integration into the global travel ecosystem. According to the report, Seychelles continues to lead the continent, followed by Mauritius, South Africa, Botswana and now Namibia, each benefiting from stable governance and proactive diplomacy.
The report notes that Namibia’s inclusion among Africa’s top five passports highlights a broader shift, one where African nations are no longer on the periphery of global mobility but active participants shaping it. Continued investment in diplomacy, tourism and infrastructure will further strengthen Namibia’s international standing.
Seychelles stands out with its enviable access to 155 destinations. This places the island nation in the global ranking of 26th.
Right behind Seychelles is Mauritius, ranked 29th globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 151 destinations. South Africa, one of the most influential nations on the African continent, holds the 48th spot in the global rankings, offering its citizens access to 106 destinations. While this is lower than the ranking of Seychelles and Mauritius, South Africa’s passport is still among the top 50 globally.
Botswana is ranked 57th globally with visa-free access to 88 destinations.
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