Kazakhstan at the Top in Central Asia in the 2026 Global Passport Index

Kazakhstan ranked first among Central Asian countries in the 2026 Global Passport Index, published by the migration consultancy firm Global Citizen Solutions. In the global ranking, which evaluates a total of 197 countries, it ranks 109th. This result confirms that Kazakhstan holds the position of the country with the strongest passport in its region. Positioned between the Maldives and Belarus in the global list, Kazakhstan has gained a distinct advantage among its neighbors and regional countries. Thus, Kazakh citizens stand out as the individuals with the broadest opportunities in terms of freedom of travel in Central Asia.

On a regional basis, Kazakhstan is followed by Uzbekistan at 123rd and the Kyrgyz Republic at 127th. Additionally, Tajikistan at 140th and Turkmenistan at 144th stand out as the other Central Asian countries falling behind in the list. These data clearly demonstrate that the Kazakhstan passport has a clear superiority compared to its rivals in the region. This difference between countries can be interpreted as the result of various diplomatic relations and visa agreements. Kazakhstan's regional leadership is considered a reflection of the diversification in its foreign policies and its steps toward international integration.

According to the index data, Kazakhstan passport holders have the privilege of traveling visa-free to 48 different countries. In addition, Kazakh citizens can travel to various destinations under simplified entry procedures or benefit from the opportunity to obtain a visa upon arrival. Among these regions where visa-free or facilitated travel is possible are Andorra, Belarus, China, Hong Kong, Macao, Palestine, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. This situation provides significant convenience for Kazakh citizens, especially in regional travel and access to some strategic global hubs. However, this number still indicates a level open to improvement compared to global standards.

On the other hand, for those wishing to travel with a Kazakhstan passport, obtaining a visa in advance is mandatory to visit approximately 85 different destinations. In this context, there are notable countries such as Afghanistan, Angola, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. These visa requirements for developed and large economies are seen as one of the biggest obstacles preventing the Kazakhstan passport from climbing higher in the global power ranking. These Western and Far Eastern countries, where visa-free access is restricted, may become more accessible in the future through the enhancement of diplomatic and commercial ties. This situation increases the importance of the steps the country will take in its foreign relations in the new periods.

The Global Passport Index measures the strength of passports based on 15 different indicators grouped under three main headings: Enhanced Mobility, Investment, and Quality of Life. In the said index, Kazakhstan ranked 112th in the Enhanced Mobility Index and 112th in the Quality of Life Index, while achieving its highest success by ranking 61st in the Investment Index. Investment attractiveness is among the strongest factors pulling the country's global score up. Meanwhile, at the top of the global ranking, alongside Switzerland, Finland, Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands, is Sweden, which holds the first place.