The Cuban passport has once again ranked among the least powerful in the world, according to the latest update of the Henley Passport Index, published this Tuesday.
According to the report, Cuba ranks 76th globally out of a total of 99, with visa-free access to only 60 of the 227 assessed international destinations, keeping it at the bottom of the list alongside countries such as Haiti, Libya, and North Korea.
While Singapore tops the global ranking with visa-free access to 193 countries, followed by Japan and South Korea with 190 destinations without a visa, the Cuban passport is more than 130 destinations behind the top positions.
Even in Latin America, Cuba ranks among the worst, surpassing only Haiti (ranked 83rd, with access to 52 destinations). According to the report, the poor performance of the Cuban passport reflects a combination of diplomatic isolation, limited reciprocity in bilateral agreements, and the international perception of migration and political risk.
Unlike other nations in the region that have improved mobility through treaties and liberalized immigration policies, the Cuban regime maintains a restrictive policy both towards its citizens and foreign visitors.
"The consolidation of the top positions in the index is the result of active diplomacy, while the less integrated countries continue to lose access," explained Christian H. Kaelin, president of Henley & Partners and creator of the index.
In contrast to Cuba, several Latin American countries have managed to position themselves in the medium and high levels of the ranking, such as Chile, in 14th place, with visa-free access to 176 destinations.
Brazil and Argentina, for their part, are in 16th place, with access to 170 countries, while Mexico ranks 22nd, with 158 destinations.
Uruguay and Costa Rica are also among the top 25 in the continent.
Cuba, however, continues to decline or remain stagnant, while other nations have significantly expanded their international mobility options.
Since 2006, the average number of visa-free destinations accessible to citizens worldwide has increased from 58 to 109 in 2025.
But that improvement has not been reflected for Cubans, who continue to face long lists of requirements, delays, and rejections at foreign embassies.
Henley & Partners indicates that while more than 80 passports have improved their ranking in the last decade, only 16 have declined, including those of Cuba, Venezuela, and Haiti.
The report concludes that, unless there is a substantial change in Cuba's foreign policy and a genuine diplomatic rapprochement with multiple countries, the island's passport will continue to be one of the least functional in the world.
Frequently asked questions about the Cuban passport and its global status
Why is the Cuban passport considered one of the worst in the world?
The Cuban passport ranks among the least powerful in the world due to its limited ability to travel to other countries without a visa. According to the Henley Passport Index, it stands at 76 out of 99, with visa-free access to only 60 international destinations. This is attributed to diplomatic isolation, a lack of bilateral agreements, and a perception of migration and political risk.
What is the current situation of tourism in Cuba?
Tourism in Cuba is in crisis, with a significant decline in the number of international visitors. In 2024, the island welcomed 2.2 million tourists, a figure well below pre-pandemic levels. The crisis is attributed to internal economic issues, a lack of infrastructure, and inadequate services, which make it difficult for even tourists to manage during their stay.
What recent changes have been implemented in the regulations regarding Cuban passports?
Since April 1, 2025, Cubans can only enter Cuba with a valid passport. This measure ends the exception that allowed entry with expired passports, implemented due to the pandemic. Additionally, as of July 2023, the validity of the Cuban passport was extended to 10 years, eliminating the need for a renewal every two years for passports issued from that date forward.
How does the new immigration policy of the United States affect Cubans?
The administration of Donald Trump has implemented new immigration restrictions for Cuban citizens, suspending entry under visa categories such as B-1, B-2, F, M, and J, due to national security concerns and the lack of cooperation from Cuba on consular matters. However, there are exceptions for permanent residents and certain family visa applicants.
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