The most recent 2023 Passport Power Rankings The Henley & Partners Global Mobility Report has changed how South Africans see passports.

South African passport holders can now visit more countries without a visa as the document has risen in the ranks.

Asian and European countries dominate Passport Power Rankings

Singapore, with a passport score of 193, up from 192 earlier this year, is still the best place to get a passport. Japan is the new kid on the block in the Passport Power ranking with a score of 191, they moved up to second place, passing Germany, and Italy. Spain takes third place with Finland, France, South Korea, and Sweden. Afghanistan is at the very bottom, far behind Syria and Iraq.

What are the benefits of a strong passport?

The Analysis? An in-depth look at 199 passports and 227 travel hotspots, all ranked by how likely they are to let you travel without a visa. Each passport gets points for every destination accessible without a visa hassle. It’s all about that travel freedom!

What is South Africa’s passport ranking?

With a score of 107, South Africa is currently ranked 54th out of 104 countries for visa-free travel. It’s not as good as it was at the beginning of the year, but they’re still in the game.

What are Travel Options for South Africans?

But hold on to your hats—South Africans can now visit 107 countries without a visa, up from 106! Burundi and Gambia were the first countries to open their doors, and guess what? Saudi Arabia is now welcoming South African passport users without a visa. It’s time to plan your summer trip! 

The price of passports has increased 

If going wasn’t already expensive, here’s a surprise: passport prices went from R200 to R600 in South Africa last November, a 50% increase! Want a bigger book? For the jet setters, that’s now R1,200.

Why South African passport prices have doubled?

Aaron Motsoaledi, the minister of home affairs, says the price increase is meant to bring the passport up to par with other passports around the world and improve its image. Criminal groups that use it for all kinds of shady activities haven’t done it any favours.

The Long List:

Here is the complete list of all 107 countries that allow South Africans to travel without a visa. Check it out and get ready to travel without having to worry about getting a visas! 🎉

Africa

Americas 

Asia

Caribbean

Europe

Middle East 

Oceania