Greece, Romania, Malta, Finland, Denmark, Czech Republic, Ireland Beats UK as UK Passport Value Drops to 35th Position, Impact on Business and Tourist Travel, What It Means for You

Published on December 16, 2025

In a stunning shift, the UK passport, once regarded as one of the most powerful travel documents globally, has seen a significant decline in value. According to the latest Passport Index, compiled by financial advisory firm Nomad Capitalist, the UK passport has fallen from 21st place to 35th out of 199 countries. This marks a major blow to the UK’s position on the global mobility scale, particularly for business professionals and tourists who rely on the passport for ease of travel and international opportunities.

Countries like Malta, Greece, Romania, Ireland, and Finland now top the rankings, leaving the UK behind. This dramatic shift is attributed to a combination of recent tax reforms and a decline in mobility competitiveness, factors that have made the UK less attractive to globally mobile entrepreneurs and families. The findings raise questions about the long-term viability of the UK as a preferred destination for business and tourism, especially given the country’s post-Brexit challenges.

The Fall of the Once-Powerful UK Passport

In 2020, just before the UK exited the European Union, the country’s passport ranked 11th globally. Now, just a few years later, it has dropped to 35th place, a stark reminder of the shifting dynamics in global travel and business mobility. The recent “wealth tax” budget and the UK’s evolving tax system, led by Labour’s Rachel Reeves, have contributed to the diminishing value of the passport. These changes have created a less favorable environment for international entrepreneurs and mobile families who value flexible tax laws and unrestricted travel.

Countries such as Bulgaria, Spain, and Hungary have now overtaken the UK, with their passports offering greater flexibility for travel and better tax conditions. As a result, citizens from these countries are now seen as more advantageous in the global mobility race, a sharp contrast to the UK’s declining position.

How the UK’s Passport Ranking Affects Business Travel

For business travelers, this decline in the UK passport’s value signals potential obstacles ahead. Entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals who rely on the UK for access to international markets may face more barriers to entry in certain countries. The UK’s increasingly complex tax system, combined with a growing perception of reduced press freedom and expanded surveillance powers, has made the country less appealing to the global talent pool.

Business professionals may now consider alternative citizenship options from countries with higher-ranking passports and more favorable tax conditions. This trend is especially important for those seeking to expand operations abroad or manage international affairs with ease.

Quick Tips for Business Travelers:

• Stay informed about tax changes: Business travelers should keep an eye on evolving tax policies in the UK that could affect their ability to operate internationally.
• Explore second citizenship options: Consider dual citizenship with a country that holds a higher ranking, such as Ireland or Malta, to benefit from increased mobility and favorable tax laws.
• Review visa requirements: Stay updated on changing visa rules and travel restrictions, as the UK’s passport may no longer guarantee as much global access as it once did.

Impact on General Tourism: Is the UK Still a Top Destination?

For leisure tourists, the decline in the UK passport’s global standing might result in fewer travel perks and benefits. With the UK’s passport now ranking lower than those of other European nations, tourists may encounter more visa requirements, fewer travel freedoms, and longer wait times at immigration controls. While the UK is still a popular destination for its cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and rich history, the passport’s diminishing value could make it a less desirable base for long-term travel plans.

Quick Tips for Tourists Planning to Visit the UK:

• Research visa policies carefully: Before traveling, check for updated visa requirements, as the UK may impose stricter controls for certain passport holders.
• Consider other EU countries: For easier access and better travel flexibility, tourists may explore other countries within the European Union, such as Ireland or Greece, which now hold higher rankings in global mobility.
• Plan ahead for potential delays: With the UK’s passport losing some of its mobility advantages, expect longer processing times for visas or entry requirements, especially if you hold a passport from a lower-ranking country.

What’s Behind the UK’s Falling Passport Value?

The UK’s fall in the passport rankings can be traced back to several key factors:

1. Brexit aftermath: The UK’s departure from the European Union has limited its mobility within the EU, which was once a major advantage for its passport holders.
2. Tax reforms: Labour’s new wealth tax measures have added complexity to the country’s tax system, making it less appealing for international business owners and travelers.
3. Public perception: Growing concerns about the state of press freedom and the UK’s increasingly authoritarian surveillance laws have contributed to a perception of reduced global standing.

These factors combined have eroded the appeal of the UK passport, once considered a symbol of unrestricted travel and global opportunities. The shift in ranking is particularly significant for business professionals who rely on the UK’s passport for accessing international markets and business hubs.

Steps to Mitigate the Decline of UK Passport Value

To maintain international mobility, UK passport holders can take several proactive steps:

1. Apply for a second passport: Many countries offer citizenship through investment or naturalization, allowing individuals to hold dual passports with greater mobility advantages.
2. Keep track of international tax reforms: As tax policies evolve, staying informed about changes in tax rates and laws can help travelers avoid unexpected challenges when conducting international business.
3. Consider new residency options: Several countries in the EU offer residency programs that allow for easier travel and fewer restrictions, offering a beneficial alternative to the UK.

Conclusion: A Changing Global Landscape for UK Travelers

The significant drop in the UK passport’s value serves as a wake-up call for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and tourists who rely on the document for global mobility. As the UK loses its competitive edge, many individuals may consider second passports or alternative residency programs to maintain their freedom to travel and do business internationally.

For UK travelers, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about the changing rules, regulations, and opportunities available for global mobility. While the UK still offers opportunities for travel and business, the decline in passport power signals the need for a strategic approach to ensure continued international access.

Key Takeaways:

• UK passport now ranks 35th, down from 21st, due to tax reforms and Brexit-related factors.
• Countries like Malta, Ireland, and Greece now offer better mobility and tax advantages.
• Business travelers and tourists alike may face more restrictions when traveling with a UK passport.
• Exploring second citizenship and residency options is a wise strategy for maintaining global access.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated