Passport Index from the Lens of Global Population and Human Development Index

Hilary Okagbue, Sydani Institute for Research and Innovation, Abuja
Olugbemisola Samuel, Sydani Institute for Research and Innovation, Abuja
Sunday Nto, Sydani Institute for Research and Innovation, Abuja
Olukayode Dahunsi, Sydani Institute for Research and Innovation, Abuja

This paper examines passport indices Henley Passport Index (HPI), Nomad Passport Index (NPI), Visa index (VI) and Arton Passport Index (API) in 2023, measuring visa-free travel privileges in 199 countries. Strong correlations exist among the indices, indicating consistent rankings. Mean visa-free travel numbers are 109.35 (HPI), 109.54 (NPI), 108.98 (VI), and 111.59 (API). Regional analysis highlights Europe's highest average passport strength, followed by the Americas, Oceania, and Africa. Within Africa, southern regions enjoy the most visa-free privileges. Europe's average strength follows Northern, Western, Eastern, and Southern regions. Populous Asia and Africa have weaker passports, while less populated Europe and Oceania boast more visa-free privileges. Rescaled indices show a positive correlation with the Human Development Index (HDI). Linear and beta regression models predict the modified index using HDI. The research suggests implications for global policies surrounding passport strengths and visa-free access, providing valuable insights into international travel privileges for diplomats and academics.