Bangladesh ranks 100th out of 106 countries in the Passport Index!

Bangladesh's passport is losing international acceptance. In the 2025 Global Passport Index by UK-based research firm Henley & Partners, Bangladesh ranks 100th out of 106 countries. That is, Bangladesh has been identified as the seventh weakest passport holder in the world.

The acceptance of Bangladesh's passport has decreased due to global visa bans and strict immigration policies. Experts say that the misuse of visas, illegal stay and criminal activities by some citizens abroad are tarnishing Bangladesh's image. As a result, many countries are conducting strict screening before Bangladeshis enter.

Many people go abroad with tourist visas and work illegally and stay even after their validity expires. Some use their visas to flee to third countries, which has a negative impact internationally. Former diplomat Munshi Faiz Ahmed said, “International trust in Bangladesh has decreased due to the misconduct and illegal activities of some citizens abroad. Countries where it was possible to travel without a visa before, now visas have become mandatory.”

He also said that sometimes Bangladeshi passengers have to face additional interrogation and searches at the airport even with a visa, just because of their passport.

According to the Henley & Partners report, Bangladesh’s position is at the bottom of South Asia. On the other hand, the passports of Japan, Singapore and Germany are at the top internationally.

The weak position of Bangladesh’s passport is making travel abroad complicated despite the country’s economic growth and increasing international connectivity. In this context, experts are being advised by the government to make strategic initiatives and changes in visa management.