Traveling across Africa as an African frequently brings more challenges than most people think. While Europeans may breeze past border checkpoints, many Africans face severe visa and passport requirements, even within their own continent.
According to the current Henley and Partners Visa Bias study, Africans suffer severe mobility challenges.
However, the story is rapidly shifting as certain African countries increase their global passport status, expanding their residents’ travel options and facilitating commercial and cultural exchanges.
Having a passport with extensive visa-free access can change a country’s economic outlook. A better passport will help African countries attract more tourists and foreign investors.
This not only benefits local businesses, but also promotes worldwide collaboration and trade deals. Countries such as Seychelles and Mauritius are setting an example, demonstrating how passport power can lead to economic development and a strong global presence.
Let us look at which African countries have the most valid passports as of July 2024, and why this is important not only for travel, but also for broader socioeconomic benefits.
1. Seychelles
- Visa-free score: 156
- Global rank: 24th
Seychelles holds the title of the most powerful passport in Africa, allowing its holders to travel to 156 countries without a visa.
2. Mauritius
- Visa-free score: 150
- Global rank: 28th
Close on the heels of Seychelles, Mauritius offers its citizens access to 150 countries, promoting vigorous economic and cultural engagement.
3. South Africa
- Visa-free score: 106
- Global rank: 47th
South Africa’s passport is the third most powerful in Africa, facilitating easier travel for business and tourism.
4. Botswana
- Visa-free score: 88
- Global rank: 56th
Botswana provides its citizens visa-free access to 88 countries, enhancing trade and international relations.
5. Namibia
- Visa-free score: 81
- Global rank: 61st
Namibia’s passport holders enjoy the freedom of traveling to 81 countries without a visa.
6. Lesotho
- Visa-free score: 79
- Global rank: 63rd
With access to 79 countries, Lesotho’s passport is a tool for its citizens to explore international opportunities.
7. Eswatini (Swaziland)
- Visa-free score: 77
- Global rank: 64th
Eswatini offers its residents relatively broad access, fostering greater mobility and international presence.
8. Kenya
- Visa-free score: 75
- Global rank: 66th (tied)
Kenya’s recent climb in the passport index is notable, opening up more visa-free travel for its citizens.
9. Malawi
- Visa-free score: 75
- Global rank: 66th (tied)
Malawi joins Kenya with the same score, reflecting its growing presence on the global stage.
10. Tanzania
- Visa-free score: 73
- Global rank: 67th
Tanzania rounds out the list, offering its citizens visa-free access to 73 countries and highlighting its progress in passport power.