The Dutch Passport: One of the World’s Most Powerful

Recognized as one of the most powerful in the world, the Dutch passport grants access and visa free travel to a multitude of countries. Of course, with a Dutch passport, you can also enjoy free movement across the European Union. A luxury that extends to residence as well.

According to the Henley Passport Index (January 2026 update), the Dutch passport is tied for 4th place in the world, as part of a 10-country European group sharing that rank. The Netherlands is ranked above both the United States (10th) and the United Kingdom (7th). At the top of the index, Singapore is #1, while Japan and South Korea are tied for #2.

Where Can You Go With a Dutch Passport?

As of 2026, the Dutch passport grants access to 185 destinations without needing to secure a visa in advance (this includes visa-free access as well as visa on arrival / e-visa / eTA, depending on the destination). Outside of the European continent, countries like Brazil, Mexico, Morocco, South Africa, and Thailand are all desirable locations that can be accessed. Additionally, much of East Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique, can often be accessed with an e-visa or visa on arrival (rules vary by country). As can the likes of Egypt, Myanmar, and Nepal.

Where Can’t You Go?

“Can’t” may be a strong term here, so let’s describe it as: “where do you need a visa to travel with a Dutch passport”. The answer is most central African countries and the Middle East. Countries in volatile regions like Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen all require visas prior to arrival. Other countries like China, Cuba and North Korea will do the same. These days, you can also add Russia to the list.

Prepare for the Inburgering

To acquire a Dutch passport, you must pass the Inburgering or Civic Integration Exam. This is so people can exist independently in Dutch society. Knowing the Dutch language is integral and a requirement for this. Until 2024, the requirements are A2 proficiency. Afterwards, it will be B1. One great way to study at your own pace, because we know schedules are crazy, would be self-study. With innovative online study organizations like Boom NT2 and Dutch-Online, this can be done in a convenient and efficient way at your own pace.

So with a Dutch passport, plan your travels to the plains of Patagonia, cherry blossoms of Tokyo, beaches of Ipanema, or Bazaars of Marrakech. In case you are looking to stay local, however, why not check out the Wadden Islands, no passport required!

For a full look at the world’s most powerful passports, check out this quick and informative animation: