Tuesday, March 18, 2025
When it comes to top passports for international travel, Europe takes the lead. The strength of a passport is typically measured by how many countries its holders can visit without a visa, a reflection of the nation’s political stability, economic power, and diplomatic relations. These factors shape the ease of global movement, with rankings fluctuating due to geopolitical events—such as the Ukraine war affecting the standing of the Russian passport.
European passports, along with those of Singapore and Japan, consistently dominate global rankings, surpassing even the U.S. passport. The United States, once a top contender, has seen its standing diminish. A USA Today report highlights a growing trend: “U.S. citizens are increasingly seeking alternative residency and citizenship abroad.”
The Power of Passports and the Golden Visa Edge
A recent report by global investment migration firm Astons reveals that Spain and Greece are home to some of the most powerful and accessible passports in the world. These passports provide access to more countries than those from the U.K., U.S., Russia, or China. Spain leads Europe with visa-free entry to 177 countries, including 133 that require no visa at all. Greece is also a strong contender, tied with major nations like France, Germany, and Italy, offering access to 176 countries, either visa-free or through a straightforward visa-on-arrival process.
Spain’s passport is particularly attractive due to its Golden Visa program, which was launched in 2013. This residency-by-investment initiative allows foreign nationals to obtain Spanish residency—and eventually citizenship—by investing a minimum of €500,000 in the local economy. Residency offers the benefit of free movement within the European Union, and citizenship and the coveted Spanish passport are attainable after several years. However, Spain’s Golden Visa program is scheduled to close in April 2025, with the final application deadline set for April 3. As noted by Astons, this closure “will prompt investors and expats to seek alternative destinations offering similar residency benefits.”
Greece Emerges as a Top Alternative
As Spain’s Golden Visa program nears its end, Greece rises as a leading alternative. The Greek passport, ranking among the strongest in Europe, is further enhanced by its appealing Golden Visa program. For a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate in less popular areas—or €800,000 in high-demand locations like Athens and Santorini since 2023—Greece offers residency within just 60 days. The benefits include unlimited residency with no minimum stay requirement, visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, and a pathway to citizenship after seven years. Greece’s strategic location near Middle Eastern markets also adds to its attractiveness.
Although some European Union leaders have expressed resistance to citizenship- and residency-by-investment programs, Greece’s Golden Visa remains in high demand, especially with Spain’s program winding down. However, rumors that Greece might shift its focus to startup investments could signal that time is running out for investors looking to capitalize on the current terms.
Exploring Alternatives and New Opportunities
Portugal presents an attractive Golden Visa option, requiring a €500,000 investment through funds, but its processing time is lengthy, often exceeding 18 months—much slower compared to Greece’s more efficient three-to-five-month timeframe. In comparison, the U.K. passport offers access to 172 countries, while the U.S. passport opens doors to 171 countries. Russia (127 countries) and China (96 countries) are considerably further down the list.
As global mobility becomes a priority for many, Spain and Greece remain top contenders due to not only their passport power but also the residency pathways they provide. With Spain’s Golden Visa program coming to an end and Greece’s future in doubt, the race is intensifying for investors and travelers eager to secure these sought-after global access points.
