These are officially the world's 'best' passports for travel freedom in 2025
You won't get far without one. But not all passports are equal.
A new survey has revealed how much freedom the world's passports really offer, with iVisa launching the Passport Score rankings.
It factors in rejection rates, costs, and processing times for a fuller picture on the best passports. And a little-known principality boasts the top one on the list.
READ MORE: One of the annoying parts of flying in the US may be over
An Australian passport is among the top 20 best. Passports Office
Folk from Liechtenstein, a 25km-long principality between Austria and Switzerland has the best, the research found.
Following that is Japan. Switzerland is next, followed by the upmarket principality of Monaco. Staying in the region and Austria landed at number five.
DEAL: Get 30 per cent off a stay at Discovery Parks in huge sale
Australia landed at number 19 on the list.
The nation is behind places such as Germany, South Korea and Italy.
It's ahead of places such as the UK, Spain and the Netherlands.
Not all passports are equal. Getty
However, sadly for residents of some counties, travel is mostly off the cards.
The worst counties for passports are all in Africa and the Middle East. Sierra Leonne, South Sudan, Afghanistan Yemen and Somalia were at the bottom of the list.
Meanwhile, the experts revealed how you can improve your chances of being able to travel more easily. For example some nations allow you to 'buy citizenship.'
That includes countries like Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Antigua.
Others allow citizenship through family ties, which many Aussies can explore.
READ MORE: The Port Stephens beachside suburb that's perfect for a family getaway
Liechtenstein cizitens can get the world's best passport. Getty Images/iStockphoto
"Ancestry-based citizenship is incredibly underused," Jan Koelle, Head of Operations at iVisa says.
"If you have an Italian, Irish, or Polish grandparent, you may already be eligible for citizenship."
Top passports in the world, according to iVisa:
- Lichtenstein
- Japan
- Switzerland
- Monaco
- Austria
- Greece
- Portugal
- Denmark
- South Korea
Meanwhile, visiting certain nations can bring issues with getting a visa for others.
In the unlikely event you've been to North Korea, Syria, Iran, or Yemen, red flags could be raised.
"Consulates may ask for additional documentation, or they may treat the traveller as higher risk," Patricia Masias, Product Specialist Coordinator at iVisa, said.
Visits to Cuba can also exclude you from getting an ESTA for the USA. You'd have to get a full visa instead, which requires an interview.
Check your passport before you head to the airport. Nine
READ MORE: The cheapest and safest places to travel with kids in 2025
Holidaymakers to the UK should also note changes are coming. A new ETA system is now in place for those who don't require a visa. The electronic travel authorisation costs $33.
Meanwhile, the cost of an ESTA for the USA is set to more than double.Of course there are also many things which can render a passport invalid.
READ MORE: 'The inbuilt phone feature that gives me peace of mind while travelling solo'
