These are Asia’s most powerful passports for 2026

If you’re lucky enough to hold a passport from Singapore, Japan, or South Korea, it’s time to stop dreaming and start booking. The 2026 Henley Passport Index is officially out, and Asia is once again dominating the global leaderboard.

Singapore continues to reign as the world's undisputed mobility king, with citizens enjoying visa-free access to a whopping 192 destinations. Japan and South Korea are not far behind, sharing second-place with 188 destinations each. In other words, Europe is playing catch-up to Asia's travel might. 

It's not just the usual suspects making noise, either. Malaysia has officially broken into the top ten for the first time in a decade, while Hong Kong has staged a comeback to the top 15. China is making its mark too – not by strengthening its own passport, but by becoming ever more open to the world. The country has opened its borders to over 44 countries in two years, now ranking 62nd on the Henley Openness Index in 2026. 

It's never been easier for Asian travellers to explore the world. If you're itching for an impromptu getaway, here are some spectacular destinations you won't regret booking a flight to this year. 

Here are the top 10 most powerful passports in Asia for 2026:

1. Singapore – 192 visa-free destinations
2. Japan – 188 visa-free destinations
3. South Korea – 188 visa-free destinations
4. Malaysia – 180 visa-free destinations
5. Hong Kong – 171 visa-free destinations
6. Brunei – 162 visa-free destinations
7. Macao – 141 visa-free destinations
8. Taiwan – 139 visa-free destinations
9. Maldives – 92 visa-free destinations
10. China – 81 visa-free destinations

Have you heard? These are the best places to visit in Asia in 2026, according to Time Out

Plus: The cheapest destinations in Asia to visit this year