The South African passport has been ranked 86th globally in terms of travel mobility, according to the latest Passport Reports data. This ranking is based on a Mobility Score of 108, which reflects the number of destinations that South African passport holders can access with relative ease. The score takes into account visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival or simplified entry arrangements, and Electronic Travel Authorization access.
South African passport holders have access to 59 destinations without needing a visa, while 42 destinations offer visa-on-arrival or other simplified entry arrangements. A further seven destinations require an Electronic Travel Authorization. This means that more than half of the destinations assessed by Passport Reports can be accessed by South African passport holders without going through the traditional visa application process.
Despite the relatively high ranking, 90 destinations still require South Africans to obtain a visa before travelling. This highlights the importance of checking specific entry requirements before booking a trip, even when a traditional visa is not required. Some countries, such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, require arrival cards, while Côte d'Ivoire requires pre-registration.
South Africa's ranking also places it among the stronger passports on the African continent. The country ranks third out of 54 African passports and third among the 54 African Union member states. It also ranks fourth among 11 BRICS countries, 15th among 19 G20 countries, 26th among 56 Commonwealth countries, and 38th among 132 G77 countries.
Across Africa, Passport Reports record total access for South African passport holders at 71.7% when visa-free, simplified-entry, and ETA destinations are combined. This reflects the relatively high level of mobility enjoyed by South African passport holders on the continent.
It's worth noting that the strength of the South African passport is different from how easy it is for foreign nationals to enter South Africa. On its separate welcoming measure, South Africa ranks 92nd among 199 countries. This figure relates to the entry requirements faced by foreign passport holders travelling into South Africa, rather than the ease with which South Africans can travel abroad.
The Passport Reports ranking offers a broader picture of passport mobility, one that goes beyond simply counting countries where no visa is required. The report highlights the importance of understanding the specific entry requirements of each destination, including any additional requirements such as arrival cards or pre-registration, and the length of stay permitted.
Key points
- South Africa's passport ranks 86th globally with a Mobility Score of 108.
- South African passport holders have access to 59 destinations without a visa.
- 90 destinations still require South Africans to obtain a visa before travelling.
