In today’s globalized world, a passport is an essential travel document that provides proof of nationality and facilitates international travel. While most governments issue passports for a fee, the cost varies significantly from country to country. Some passports are notably expensive, whereas others are highly affordable, making them accessible to a larger segment of the population.
This article delves into the top 10 most and least expensive passports globally in 2025, highlighting their costs, visa-free access, and the factors influencing their pricing.
The Cost of Passports: Why Do Prices Vary?
The price of a passport depends on multiple factors, including government policies, security features, diplomatic relations, and validity period. Countries with advanced security features in their passports, such as biometric chips and anti-counterfeiting measures, often have higher fees. Additionally, passport costs may reflect the country’s administrative and production expenses.
Top 10 Most Expensive Passports Globally in 2025
According to a report by Compare The Market, the following countries have the most expensive passports, ranked by cost:
Rank | Country | Validity (Years) | Visa-Free Countries Access | Cost in INR | Cost in USD |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Mexico (10-year passport) | 10 | 162 | ₹19,481.75 | $230.85 |
2 | Australia | 10 | 190 | ₹19,047.14 | $225.70 |
3 | United States (USA) | 10 | 189 | ₹13,911.92 | $164.85 |
4 | Mexico (6-year passport) | 6 | 162 | ₹11,125.32 | $131.83 |
5 | New Zealand | 10 | 190 | ₹10,663.70 | $126.36 |
6 | Italy | 10 | 194 | ₹10,533.73 | $124.82 |
7 | Canada | 10 | 189 | ₹9,986.03 | $118.33 |
8 | United Kingdom (UK) | 10 | 192 | ₹8,754.76 | $103.74 |
9 | Mexico (3-year passport) | 3 | 162 | ₹8,182.59 | $96.96 |
10 | Fiji | 10 | 90 | ₹7,865.28 | $93.20 |
Why Are These Passports Expensive?
- Mexico tops the list, with its 10-year passport being the most expensive globally.
- Australia and the USA have high passport costs due to their advanced security features and visa-free access to numerous countries.
- European countries like Italy and the UK also charge high fees due to their strong global mobility index.
- New Zealand and Canada ensure passport security and easy international travel, contributing to the higher cost.
Top 10 Least Expensive Passports Globally in 2025
While some countries charge high fees, others offer passports at significantly lower costs. Here’s a list of the most affordable passports worldwide:
Rank | Country | Validity (Years) | Visa-Free Countries Access | Cost in INR | Cost in USD |
1 | United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 5 | 183 | ₹1,493.73 | $17.70 |
2 | India | 10 | 62 | ₹1,524.95 | $18.07 |
3 | Hungary | 5 | 188 | ₹1,749.43 | $20.73 |
4 | South Africa | 10 | 108 | ₹2,666.77 | $31.60 |
5 | Kenya | 10 | 76 | ₹2,713.18 | $32.15 |
6 | Spain (over 30s) | 10 | 194 | ₹2,724.15 | $32.28 |
6 | Spain (under 30s) | 5 | 194 | ₹2,724.15 | $32.28 |
8 | Poland | 10 | 189 | ₹2,938.51 | $34.82 |
9 | Brazil | 10 | 173 | ₹3,060.03 | $36.26 |
10 | Sweden | 5 | 193 | ₹3,241.47 | $38.41 |
Why Are These Passports Affordable?
- UAE and India provide passports at a significantly lower cost, making them accessible to a larger population.
- Hungary and Poland offer lower-priced passports while ensuring global travel convenience.
- Spain offers cost-effective passports while maintaining one of the most powerful passport rankings worldwide.
The Value of the Indian Passport
Affordability & Global Mobility
The Indian passport, costing just ₹1,524.95 for 10 years, is the second cheapest in the world. Despite its affordability, its visa-free access is limited to 62 countries.
Indian Passport Ranking in 2025
As per the Henley Powerful Passport Index 2025, India ranks 82nd with a mobility score of 73, reflecting the number of destinations accessible without requiring a prior visa.