The 6 Most Weakest Passports in the World for 2025

Passports are more than travel documents; they can serve as powerful tools that grant holders access to international travel and economic opportunities. However, not all passports are created equal. Some are incredibly weak, limiting the holder’s ability to travel freely across borders. For 2025, we take a closer look at the most weakest passports in the world. These passports rank among the least powerful globally, offering holders the fewest visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations. 

Understanding Passport Strength: Why Some are Weaker Than Others

A passport’s strength is generally measured by the number of countries its holders can enter without a prior visa. Stronger passports allow for extensive travel with minimal visa restrictions, while weaker ones limit entry to only a few countries or require lengthy visa applications. The weakest passports usually belong to nations with political instability, economic challenges, or limited diplomatic relations, which can restrict global mobility for their citizens. In 2025, six countries stand out for having the most weakest passports in the world.

1. Afghanistan

Afghanistan consistently ranks among the world’s weakest passports due to ongoing political instability and security issues. Afghan passport holders can access fewer than 30 countries without a visa or with visa-on-arrival privileges, severely limiting their global mobility. For Afghans, even nearby nations have stringent entry requirements. The situation has led many Afghan citizens to face obstacles when seeking education, employment, or even family reunions abroad.

2. Iraq

Iraqi passports are among the most weakest passports in the world. Due to years of internal conflict and complex international relations, Iraqis have limited access to other nations without needing visas in advance. In 2025, Iraqi passport holders can travel to fewer than 35 countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival options. This restriction greatly limits Iraqis’ ability to engage in tourism, global commerce, and personal travel, isolating them from many parts of the world.

3. Syria

Syria’s passport ranks low due to prolonged civil conflict and strained relations with numerous nations. Syrian passport holders face similar challenges to those in Iraq and Afghanistan, with access to only around 35 countries without a visa or with a visa-on-arrival. Syrians often encounter obstacles when applying for visas, as many countries maintain strict policies to control the movement of Syrian nationals. This restriction on travel continues to impact Syrian citizens who seek refuge, work, or study opportunities abroad.

4. Pakistan

The Pakistani passport can access fewer than 40 countries without a visa, often facing strict entry requirements, especially in Western countries. For many Pakistanis, this has become a barrier to educational and economic opportunities abroad. The ongoing geopolitical issues and security concerns surrounding Pakistan contribute to the restrictions placed on its citizens.

5. Yemen

Yemen’s passport is one of the weakest passports due to internal conflict and strained international relations. Yemeni passport holders can enter fewer than 35 countries without a visa, making it one of the world’s weakest passports. This limited access affects Yemenis’ ability to escape the country’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, pursue work, or seek educational opportunities abroad. Restrictions imposed on Yemeni nationals often reflect the political turmoil and security risks associated with the region.

6. Somalia

Somalia only grants its holders limited travel freedom. Somali passport holders have access to fewer than 35 countries without prior visas, mainly in Africa and Asia. Due to ongoing challenges with security and governance, Somalia’s international relations remain limited. This lack of passport power for Somali citizens impacts their opportunities to connect with the world, impacting economic and personal prospects.

How a Weak Passport Impacts Daily Life?

Holding one of the most weakest passports in the world can significantly impact a person’s life. Limited travel options prevent people from accessing better educational and economic opportunities and often isolate them from family members living abroad. Weak passports can also create barriers for people who need to travel for health reasons or in search of asylum.

Why Travel Insurance is Important for All Travellers?

Whether a passport is powerful or among the most weakest passports in the world, every traveller should consider travel insurance. A comprehensive travel insurance policy from a trusted provider like Niva Bupa is essential for citizens with restricted travel options. Travel insurance offers financial protection against unexpected events, such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, or trip cancellations, ensuring that travel remains safe and stress-free, even for those who face visa restrictions.

Related article: List of Most Powerful Passports in the World 

Conclusion

The most weakest passports in the world often reflect broader issues within a country, from economic struggles to political instability. Holding one of these passports can present significant challenges, impacting an individual’s ability to travel, access global opportunities, and even reunite with family. However, for those able to travel, it’s crucial to stay protected with our international travel insurance, offering peace of mind and support, even when travelling on a limited passport.

In 2025, the Afghan, Iraqi, Syrian, Pakistani, Yemeni, and Somali passports ranked among the weakest. For holders of these passports, travel may be restricted, but having the right travel insurance can help make their journeys safer and more secure.