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On a global scale, the Henley Passport Index is the most important reference for measuring citizens’ freedom of movement across different countries. This index ranks the world’s passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without requiring a prior visa. The data comes from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), ensuring the ranking’s reliability and accuracy.

Why Is This Ranking Important?

The Henley Passport Index not only reflects the power of passports in terms of international access but also serves as an indicator of a country’s diplomacy, bilateral relations, and international agreements. A passport that grants access to more countries without a visa is considered more “powerful” because it facilitates trade, tourism, and diplomatic relations. Over the years, this index has demonstrated how global mobility is directly linked to a country’s foreign policies.

Who Leads the Ranking in 2025?

The Henley Passport Index 2025 highlights the countries with the greatest freedom of movement. Below are the top five rankings:

1. Singapore: With visa-free access to 195 countries, Singapore remains the undisputed leader, once again showcasing the impact of its strong diplomatic network.
2. Japan: Access to 193 countries. Japan continues to stand out in the Asian region, solidifying its position as a global mobility leader.
3. Spain: With access to 192 countries, Spain holds firmly to third place, tying with other European nations such as Germany, France, Italy, and Finland. This achievement underscores Spain’s diplomatic power within the European Union and its global influence.

The Mobility Gap

While countries at the top of the ranking enjoy great freedom for their citizens, the Henley Passport Index also highlights disparities in global mobility. Many developing countries face significant challenges in accessing other destinations without a visa. These restrictions reflect the economic and political inequalities that still persist in the international arena. Citizens of these nations often require visas, representing a significant barrier to tourism and business.

Implications for Travelers and the World

The power of a passport has profound implications for travelers. Those with more powerful passports enjoy greater ease in conducting business, studying abroad, or even relocating to other countries with fewer restrictions. Visa-free access facilitates the movement of human capital, which in turn can contribute to more dynamic international relations.

Moreover, the ranking reflects how visa policies and bilateral agreements between countries are shaping a new mobility landscape. Nations that secure visa exemption agreements gain a significant advantage, as they enable easier entry for tourists, students, and international entrepreneurs, which can serve as a driver for their economies.

The Future of Global Mobility

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the positions of countries in the Henley Passport Index may shift. New alliances and free-movement agreements between nations could reshape current dynamics. Similarly, political and economic developments may influence a country’s ability to strengthen its diplomatic power and improve its citizens’ international access.

Conclusion

In summary, the Henley Passport Index 2025 provides insight into the current state of global mobility and the factors that determine which countries hold the most powerful passports. Spain continues to be a key player in Europe, ranking third among the world’s most powerful passports, while Singapore and Japan lead the list. Despite progress in many countries, mobility inequalities remain a global concern, highlighting the need to continue improving international relations and easing visa policies.

For more details and to access the full list, you can visit the official Henley Passport Index 2025 website.

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Schengen, the EU’s passport-free zone, encompasses 29 countries.

The ability to move freely without the need to show a passport, live, work, study, or even retire in any of the 26 countries that make up the Schengen border-free area is undoubtedly one of the most significant achievements of European integration.

The right to free movement, originating from the Maastricht Treaty of 1992, grants citizens the right to move and reside freely within the European Union. This principle was effectively implemented with the gradual removal of internal borders, thanks to the establishment of the Schengen Area in 1995.

Currently, 27 countries are full members of the Schengen system: 25 EU member states, along with Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, which are associated states. Although Ireland is not part of Schengen, it may choose to apply some provisions of the agreement and has a common travel area with the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, Denmark is part of Schengen but has the option not to adopt new measures related to justice and home affairs, including Schengen governance, while still adhering to certain common visa policies. Cyprus, on the other hand, is undergoing an evaluation process to determine whether it is ready to join the Schengen Area.

In November 2022, the European Parliament approved Croatia’s accession to the Schengen Area before the end of that year, which was implemented on January 1, 2023. In July 2023, the Parliament urged the Council to authorize Romania and Bulgaria’s accession to Schengen before the end of that year, emphasizing that both countries had already met the necessary requirements. As of March 31, 2024, air and sea border controls within the EU were removed for both countries, while land border controls will be abolished on January 1, 2025.

Countries wishing to join the Schengen Area must assume responsibility for monitoring the European Union’s external borders. Additionally, they must implement a set of common rules, such as controls at land, sea, and air borders, and the uniform issuance of Schengen visas. They must also ensure a high level of security within the Schengen Area by cooperating with law enforcement authorities in other member countries. Finally, they must connect to the Schengen Information System (SIS) to share security-related information.

Although internal border controls have been abolished, member states retain the right to reintroduce temporary controls if there are serious threats to internal security or public order. Since the 2015 migration crisis and the rise in terrorist threats, several countries reinstated these controls, a measure that was also adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic to curb the virus’s spread.

In December 2021, the European Commission proposed an update to the rules governing the Schengen Area to ensure that reintroducing internal border controls remains an exceptional measure rather than a frequent practice. This proposal also promoted alternative measures, such as more targeted police checks and increased cooperation between security forces. Despite criticism from the European Parliament regarding the reintroduction of these controls, in February 2024, the Parliament and the Council reached an agreement to update Schengen rules. These new regulations, which came into effect in July 2024, include a risk assessment by national authorities before deciding to reintroduce controls and grant a more active supervisory role to the European Commission.

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On January 3, 2025, the Official State Gazette (BOE) published Organic Law 1/2025, approved on January 2, regarding measures for the efficiency of the Public Justice Service. This law, which will take effect on April 3, 2025, introduces significant changes to the legislation governing investor residence visas.

Organic Law 1/2025 repeals Articles 63 to 67 of Law 14/2013, of September 27, on support for entrepreneurs and their internationalization, which regulated the residence visa known as the Golden Visa.

With this new law, Articles 63 to 67 of Law 14/2013 will be repealed, meaning that the option to apply for residence visas through significant investments in Spain will no longer be available.

Why has its elimination been approved?

1. To improve local housing access: The mass purchase of properties by foreign investors has driven up prices and caused gentrification in certain areas.
2. Limited economic impact: The investments tied to this visa have not had a significant positive effect on Spain’s economy, prompting the elimination of all investor visas.
3. EU restrictions: Following the invasion of Ukraine, the EU has begun to limit investment-based visas due to concerns about money laundering and a lack of transparency, particularly regarding the origin of funds.

What is the Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is a Spanish residence permit granted through significant investments, provided certain conditions are met:

• Financial investments: A minimum investment of €2 million in Spanish government bonds or €1 million in shares of Spanish companies, investment funds, venture capital funds, or bank deposits in Spanish financial institutions.
• Real estate investments: The purchase of real estate in Spain valued at €500,000 or more.
• Business projects: Investment in projects of general interest carried out in Spain.

Starting April 3, 2025, these options will no longer be valid under the new law.

Transitional arrangements

The law includes transitional measures to ensure acquired rights and ongoing applications are respected:

• Applications submitted before April 3, 2025: Investors or their family members who apply for a visa before this date may continue processing their application under the legislation in force at the time of submission.
• Previously granted visas: Permits issued before the new law takes effect will remain valid for the duration for which they were initially granted.
• Renewals: Renewal applications for visas will be processed according to the legal provisions applicable on the date the initial authorization was granted.

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The European Union (EU) has approved the final step for the full integration of Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen area of free movement, a significant milestone that will take effect on January 1, 2025. This measure will bring the definitive removal of land border controls, enabling full integration that will benefit not only the citizens of these countries but also Europe as a whole in terms of economic, social, and mobility advantages.

Since their partial entry into the Schengen area in March 2024, Romania and Bulgaria achieved the removal of controls at air and sea borders. However, land border controls remained in place, primarily due to Austria’s opposition, which demanded stronger efforts in managing irregular migration. Now, following a significant reduction in unauthorized crossings, Austria has lifted its objections, paving the way for full membership.

A Boost to the Economy and European Integration

The expansion of the Schengen area to 29 countries marks a milestone in European integration. Established in 1985, the Schengen area facilitates the free movement of people by eliminating internal border controls, promoting a smoother flow of goods, services, and travelers. Currently, over 420 million citizens reside in Schengen countries, and it is estimated that 3.5 million people cross its internal borders daily.

The removal of land border controls in Romania and Bulgaria will directly benefit:

1. Travelers and cross-border workers: Waiting times at borders will be drastically reduced, making daily commutes and travel between European countries much easier. This will be particularly advantageous for the millions of Romanians and Bulgarians living and working in other EU member states, allowing them to return home more quickly and affordably.
2. Businesses and trade: The elimination of border barriers will lower logistics costs and improve the efficiency of road freight transport. This will boost trade between Romania, Bulgaria, and the rest of Europe, strengthening local economies and attracting new foreign investments.
3. Tourism: Full Schengen membership will also encourage tourism by removing border controls, facilitating the arrival of visitors, and creating additional economic opportunities in both countries.

Benefits for the European Union as a Whole

The expansion of the Schengen area strengthens the idea of European unity, facilitating the seamless movement of people and goods.

This decision fulfills a long-standing EU commitment to Romania and Bulgaria, consolidating the full integration of both countries into common mobility and free movement policies.

The Schengen Area: A Symbol of Integration

The Schengen area is one of the EU’s greatest achievements and a symbol of integration. By eliminating internal borders, it has created a dynamic economic environment, strengthened relationships between countries, and provided greater freedom for European citizens. Romania and Bulgaria’s inclusion reaffirms this commitment, further expanding the benefits of free movement.

Full Schengen integration represents a historic opportunity to attract foreign investment, stimulate cross-border trade, and develop key sectors such as logistics, transportation, and tourism. Additionally, the measure reinforces Romania and Bulgaria’s sense of belonging to the European community, removing physical and symbolic barriers that have separated these countries from the rest of Europe for years.

In Summary

Romania and Bulgaria are now full members of the EU Schengen area as of January 1. This marks the end of a 13-year wait for the two countries and opens new opportunities for seamless travel and connectivity across Europe.

Key highlights:

• Border controls between Romania, Bulgaria, and neighboring EU countries have officially ceased.
• Citizens of both countries can now travel across the 27-member Schengen area, including destinations like France, Spain, and Norway, without a passport.
• Random border checks will continue over the next six months, focusing mainly on larger vehicles to deter criminal activity.

This milestone represents a significant step forward for mobility, connectivity, and collaboration in Europe. It’s not just about easier travel but also about building stronger bonds, welcoming a new wave of tourists, and fostering unity.

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The UK Government has announced that starting in 2025, obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be mandatory for entering or transiting through the country. This new requirement will apply to both European and non-European citizens who meet the criteria for visa-free travel.

Starting January 8, 2025, non-European citizens will need to have an ETA. Applications for this group can be submitted beginning November 27, 2024. The affected travelers will include citizens of the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Taiwan (passport must include the identification number issued by Taiwan), Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, United States, and Uruguay.

Meanwhile, European citizens will be able to start the application process on March 5, 2025, allowing them to travel to the UK starting April 2, 2025.

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be introduced gradually for travelers who currently do not require a visa:

• For non-European citizens: ETA applications will be available starting November 27, 2024, and will be mandatory for entering the UK from January 8, 2025.
• For European citizens: ETA applications can be submitted from March 5, 2025, and will become a mandatory requirement starting April 2, 2025.

It is important to note that British and Irish citizens are exempt from this requirement.

This new requirement will affect all travelers arriving at the UK’s major international airports, including London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN), Edinburgh (EDI), Birmingham (BHX), and Glasgow (GLA).

The ETA requirement will also impact travelers in transit, who must ensure they complete this process before their international connections. This may result in delays for those who are unaware or have not managed their authorization in advance.

– Travelers are advised to apply for the ETA as soon as the system becomes available on the specified dates.
– To manage the ETA and obtain detailed information, travelers should visit the official UK Government website (www.gov.uk/electronictravelauthorisation).
– Ensure that your passport is valid and that the information matches the details in the application. Any discrepancies could result in a denial of entry to the UK.
– Travelers with connecting flights should allow extra time to comply with the new requirement and avoid disruptions to their itineraries.

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On November 19, 2024, the Spanish government repealed the joint instruction issued on March 15, 2019, which permitted Venezuelan citizens to use expired passports for immigration procedures in the country. This measure, originally introduced as an exceptional solution, is no longer in effect due to the normalization of passport renewals by Venezuelan consulates.

A Context Marked by the Venezuelan Crisis
In 2019, Venezuela’s severe political, economic, and social crisis created numerous challenges for Venezuelan citizens both within and outside their country. Among these challenges was the inability to renew passports due to administrative collapse in Venezuelan consulates. Faced with this situation, Spain adopted the extraordinary measure of allowing expired passports to serve as valid documents for Venezuelans to regularize their immigration status within Spanish territory.

The regulation, outlined in a joint instruction dated March 15, 2019, provided relief to thousands of Venezuelan citizens seeking to formalize their stay in Spain despite lacking a valid passport. Over the years, this measure enabled many to obtain residence and work permits, secure access to healthcare, and carry out other essential procedures for integration into the country.

End of the Exceptional Measure
With the decision made on November 19, 2024, this instruction has been repealed. According to official sources, the decision is based on the fact that Venezuelan authorities have now normalized the process of passport renewals at their consulates. As a result, Venezuelan citizens wishing to initiate immigration procedures in Spain will be required to present a valid passport.

It is important to highlight that this repeal applies only to procedures initiated after the date of its implementation. Ongoing procedures that were initiated beforehand will continue to be governed by the previous regulation and will not be affected by this change.

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The National Immigration Council (CNIG) of Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security has approved Resolution CNIG/MJSP No. 45, a measure that allows the granting of temporary visas and residence permits to immigrants known as “digital nomads.” This resolution targets foreign professionals who work remotely for employers outside Brazil, leveraging the flexibility of information and communication technologies.

What is a “Digital Nomad”?
According to the new regulations, a “digital nomad” is defined as an immigrant who, using digital technologies, can perform their job remotely while physically residing in Brazil but working for a foreign company. These workers do not maintain ties with local employers, and their employment depends exclusively on their internet connection.

The regulations clarify that immigrants working for Brazilian companies or those with any form of local employment relationship, as well as those whose residence has been requested under other previously established authorizations, will not be considered under this category.

How to Apply for a Temporary Visa
For those wishing to be recognized as digital nomads in Brazil, the application process begins with obtaining a temporary visa. Applicants must submit a series of documents to Brazilian consular authorities.

The initial residence period granted under this visa will be up to one year, allowing immigrants to enjoy their stay in Brazil while performing remote work.

Additional Requirements for Residence Authorization in Brazil
For individuals already in Brazil who wish to regularize their status as “digital nomads,” they may apply for a residence permit through the Ministry of Justice and Public Security.

Renewal of Residence
The residence permit under this regulation can be renewed for an additional period of up to one year, provided the immigrant continues to meet the established requirements. This includes submitting documents proving their status as a “digital nomad” and demonstrating that their means of subsistence remain sufficient.

Potential Consequences of Omissions or Falsifications
It is important to note that any omission of relevant information or falsification of documents during the process may result in the cancellation of the visa and revocation of the residence permit. Authorities will initiate a cancellation process under Decree No. 9,199 of 2017, without prejudice to applicable civil and criminal liability measures.

Impact of the Measure and Entry into Force
Resolution CNIG/MJSP No. 45 takes effect upon its publication and represents a significant step for Brazil in attracting foreign professionals who, as digital nomads, wish to take advantage of the country’s infrastructure to advance their careers while enjoying Brazil’s quality of life.

The regulation reinforces Brazil’s position as an attractive destination for international remote workers, who are increasingly seeking countries that provide a suitable environment for flexible work and new professional opportunities in a globalized, digitized context.

Through this program, Brazil not only facilitates the entry of these workers but also promotes the country’s digital economy and innovation, generating a positive impact on sectors related to technology, tourism, and consumer markets.

Such initiatives are becoming more common as countries adapt to the new realities of remote work, incentivizing the arrival of global talent to contribute to their economies in innovative and modern ways.

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On October 9, the Official State Gazette (BOE) published the bilateral agreement between the Kingdom of Spain and the Republic of Honduras regarding the reciprocal recognition and exchange of national driver’s licenses. This agreement aims to facilitate the mobility of citizens of both countries, ensuring the mutual recognition of driver’s licenses under road safety conditions and in compliance with international regulations.

Starting November 26, 2024, the exchange agreement with Honduras will come into effect, and from that date, it will be possible to request appointments for license exchange. As with other exchange agreements, which are processed through prior appointments, applicants must present the required documents on the day of the appointment.

Key points of the agreement:

1. Reciprocal recognition: National driver’s licenses issued in one of the two countries will be valid for temporary driving in the territory of the other, provided the established conditions are met.
2. License exchange without additional tests: Holders of valid and current driver’s licenses can request an exchange for an equivalent license in the country of residence without the need to take theoretical or practical exams. However, for specific license categories (C1, C1+E, C, C+E, D1, D1+E, D, and D+E), a practical driving test will be required.
3. Authenticity verification: Before the exchange, the authorities of each country will exchange information to verify the validity of the original license.
4. Indefinite duration of the agreement: The agreement will remain in effect indefinitely, although either Party may terminate it with 90 days’ notice.

Competent authorities:

• In Spain: The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT).
• In Honduras: The National Directorate of Roads and Transportation (DNVT).

This agreement reflects the cooperation between the two countries in terms of mobility and respect for fundamental rights, ensuring the protection of personal data in the information exchange processes.

For more details, consult the full text of the agreement published in the BOE: Access the document.

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On November 19, the Council of Ministers approved, at the proposal of the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, a new Immigration Regulation. Its main objectives are to align the regulations with the current migratory landscape, meet the needs of both the labor market and migrants, and address the demographic challenges of the country. Furthermore, the new text complies with European Union law by transposing pending directives and applying EU regulations.

Key Changes: Visas

The new regulation introduces a specific section for visas, clarifying authorization schemes, requirements, and general procedures. All initial authorizations will now be issued for one year, with subsequent renewals lasting four years.

This change aims to prevent situations of irregular status, which the new regulation also addresses by simplifying and clarifying the process of transitioning from one residence status to another. For instance, migrants will no longer need to leave the country to obtain long-term residency after holding a temporary one.

Additionally, the job search visa, previously valid for three months, has been extended to one year. This visa allows migrants to search for employment in specific occupations and geographical areas. The 12-month duration provides migrants with more time to find a job suited to their professional profile while enabling companies to hire the talent they need.

Key Changes: Five Types of “Arraigo”

A notable aspect of the reform is the inclusion of different types of arraigo (rootedness). Spain is the only European Union country with specific mechanisms to regularize individuals through five modalities of arraigo: social, socio-labor, family, socio-educational, and second-chance rootedness, the latter being one of the most significant novelties in the new regulation.

The second-chance arraigo targets individuals who held a residence permit in the last two years but failed to renew it for various reasons.

The goal is to expand and strengthen pathways to regularization for migrants in Spain, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives as citizens, with both rights and responsibilities.

The time required for eligibility for most arraigo types has been reduced from three years to two, and the requirements have been made more flexible. These permits allow migrants to work, either as employees or self-employed, from the outset.

Most of these authorizations will last one year, except for the family arraigo, which will be valid for five years.

Three Pillars of Inclusion: Work, Training, and Family

The regulation creates new opportunities for inclusion, focusing on three key areas: employment, education, and family. These pillars aim to promote inclusion while maintaining strict legal standards and protecting human rights.

1. Employment
The majority of the authorizations covered by this regulation allow migrants to work immediately, without needing to apply separately for a work permit. This includes students, who will now be allowed to work up to 30 hours per week, facilitating their integration into society.

A new residence and work permit has been created for seasonal work, simplifying individual and collective hiring processes. It also enhances worker protections, ensuring clear and accessible information (in a language they understand) about working conditions, housing, and other expenses. Additionally, safeguards are in place to allow workers to change employers in cases of abuse or unforeseen circumstances, such as crop failures.

Employers will also benefit from streamlined processes, greater flexibility to meet specific needs, and more stable hiring conditions through the 1+4 residence permit structure.

2. Education
For students, the regulation introduces a study permit valid for the duration of their academic program. A streamlined process will also allow them to transition to a work permit after completing their studies.

During their studies, students can work up to 30 hours per week, regardless of the type of training they are pursuing.

The new regulation also strengthens the requirements and responsibilities of educational institutions, offering students greater protection than before.

3. Family
Family reunification procedures have been improved to support inclusion. A new residence permit has been created for family members of Spanish citizens, increasing the age limit for children from 21 to 26 and recognizing non-registered partnerships with proof of a similar relationship.

This measure primarily benefits individuals who have acquired Spanish nationality in recent years and want to bring their families to Spain.

Additionally, the concept of family reunification has been broadened to include children and parents of victims of human trafficking, sexual violence, or gender-based violence.

A Comprehensive Step Forward

This new Immigration Regulation is a significant step towards fostering migrant integration in Spain. By prioritizing work, education, and family, it seeks to create an inclusive society while addressing the country’s labor and demographic challenges. These changes ensure that migrants can participate fully as members of society, enjoying both rights and responsibilities while contributing to Spain’s economic and social growth.

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