The coronavirus pandemic has had a highly detrimental effect on the worldwide mobility rate, hampering international travel and bringing the power of passports to an all-time low. Some countries have begun to reopen their borders, but a study by Passport Index has shown that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a 65% decrease in the world's openness rate. This index measures the openness of 199 countries in the world to international travel using a range of indicators.
Highlights
- The COVID-19 pandemic has led many countries to ban foreign nationals from crossing their borders
- The openness rate of the world has decreased by 65% compared to 2019
- Italian and Australian passports are second and third, respectively, in the ranking of the most powerful passports
The new restrictions imposed by the pandemic have brought European passports back to the top of the ranking which had been dominated in 2019 by the passport of the United Arab Emirates. Among the countries at the top of the list there are Belgium, France, Germany and Spain, whose citizens can travel to 120 countries without a visa.
Steady in second place we find the Italian passport, that allows citizens to enter without requiring a visa in 119 countries. The New Zealand passport flanks the Italian one, after having climbed three places in the ranking, going from fifth in 2019 to second in 2020.
At the third step of the podium is the Australian passport which currently allows access to 118 countries without any need for a visa. Compared to last year, the Australian passport has gained three positions, overtaking that of countries such as the United States, Poland and San Marino.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.
If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, stay home and arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
