The Cuban passport continues to be among the most restricted in the world and ranks as the second worst in Latin America, according to the Global Passport Ranking by the British firm Henley & Partners, which specializes in citizenship services.
According to the Henley Passport Index, the original and most authoritative ranking of all the world's passports, Cuba is placed at 78th position with access to 62 visa-free countries, two fewer than in the previous ranking three months ago. The Henley Passport Index is updated four times a year, typically in January, April, July, and October.
Changes in Visa-Free Access for Cubans
In the case of Cuba, at least three countries have reportedly removed visa-free access for Cubans, considering that on July 15, Thailand enabled the benefit for travelers from the island. This index ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without needing a prior visa.
Cuba's passport is the second worst travel document in Latin America, only ahead of Haiti, which has the region's least reputable passport. The Henley Index includes 199 passports and 227 travel destinations, providing users with the most extensive and reliable information on their global access and mobility.
Countries like Singapore, France, Germany, and Italy lead the index, allowing their citizens to travel visa-free to up to 195 destinations worldwide. This highlights the significant disparity in visa-free travel access between developed and developing nations.
FAQs on Cuban Passport and Visa-Free Travel
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Cuban passport and its ranking in terms of visa-free travel, providing insights into the challenges faced by Cuban citizens.
Why is the Cuban passport so restricted?
The restrictions on the Cuban passport are largely due to the country's political and economic isolation, as well as strained diplomatic relations with many nations.
How often is the Henley Passport Index updated?
The Henley Passport Index is updated four times a year, typically in January, April, July, and October.
Which countries have the most powerful passports?
Countries like Singapore, France, Germany, and Italy have the most powerful passports, allowing their citizens to travel visa-free to up to 195 destinations worldwide.