The Philippine passport became weaker in terms of travel freedom in 2025, losing visa-free access to three destinations, even as it slightly improved its position in global rankings, according to the Henley Global Mobility Report. The country’s visa-free score fell from 67 to 64 after Pakistan, Mauritania and Somalia switched to eVisa systems, meaning Filipinos now need prior approval to enter those countries.
Despite this decline, the Philippine passport rose two places in the global rankings, from 75th to 73rd. Henley & Partners said this improvement did not reflect stronger access for Filipinos, but rather consolidation among higher-ranked countries, where several passports also lost mobility as visa-on-arrival privileges were reduced worldwide.
Henley noted that the country’s performance broadly mirrors the global trend, with many countries facing tighter entry rules. While the Philippines remains relatively open to foreign visitors—ranking 16th globally for openness after granting visa-free entry to Indian nationals in 2025—this is not matched by equal treatment abroad.
Filipino travelers enjoy visa-free access to only 28 percent of destinations worldwide, largely due to concerns over migration risk and income gaps. The report said improving travel compliance, raising income levels, and pursuing visa-waiver agreements will be key to strengthening the Philippine passport over time.
