U.S. drops to lowest ranking yet on index of most powerful passports
The Henley Passport Index, which was formed by London-based consulting firm Henley & Partners, revealed in a Tuesday update that the U.S. has gone down by one spot in the world rankings, and now has the 10th most powerful passport worldwide.
The report is compiled using data from the International Air Transport Association.
The U.S. was first on the list in 2014. The U.S. passport allows Americans to enter 182 countries without a visa. Tied with the U.S. are Lithuania and Iceland.
'The consolidation we're seeing at the top underscores that access is earned — and must be maintained — through active and strategic diplomacy. Nations that proactively negotiate visa waivers and nurture reciprocal agreements continue to rise, while the opposite applies to those that are less engaged in such efforts,' said Christian H. Kaelinm, the inventor of the passport index concept.
Singapore is still in first place, allowing its citizens visa-free access to 193 destination spots. South Korea and Japan share second place, granting 190 visa-free destinations to their citizens.
Seven European Union (EU) countries — Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Spain — are in the third spot. Seven other EU nations — Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and Sweden — are in fourth place, while Greece, Switzerland and New Zealand are tied in fifth place, according to the report.
Afghanistan is at the bottom of the list with allowing visa-free access to 25 destinations.
'While international passport rankings may vary based on methodology, our focus remains on facilitating secure, efficient, and reciprocal travel for American citizens and foreign nationals alike,' a State Department spokesperson said in a statement to CBS News.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Wire
26 minutes ago
- Business Wire
Nedia Fiber and Birla Cable Ltd. Form Exclusive Strategic Alliance to Boost Optical Fiber Cable Supply across the Americas
ASHBURN, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nedia Fiber, a U.S.-based optical fiber cable supplier, and Birla Cable Ltd., a publicly listed global leader in fiber optic cable manufacturing, have formed a strategic alliance to accelerate the delivery of high-performance fiber optic solutions across the Americas. This alliance aims to reduce lead times, and meet growing telecom and broadband infrastructure needs across the region. Grateful for the strong, exclusive, and strategic alliance driving growth across the Americas continent. A powerful collaboration between Birla Cable (BIRLACABLE) and Nedia Fiber, led by industry veterans Siby Pothen, R. Sridharan, and Luiz Fuschini. Share Nedia Fiber brings decades of expertise and understanding of the American market. With a focus on speed, responsiveness, and execution, the company is positioning itself as a leading supplier for ISPs, Telcos, and EPCs across the Americas. Birla Cable Ltd., part of the esteemed M.P. Birla Group, is one of India's most respected fiber optic manufacturers, offering a portfolio of fiber and cable products supported by cutting-edge production facilities and global certifications. 'We are excited to launch this important alliance with Birla Cable Ltd., a company known worldwide for its manufacturing strength and product excellence,' said Mr. Siby Pothen, President of Nedia Fiber. 'Together, we are building a responsive supply model that aligns with the infrastructure needs of our customers across the Americas.' 'This important alliance is a key step in our global growth strategy,' said Mr. R. Sridharan, CEO of Birla Cable Ltd. 'Working with Nedia Fiber gives us direct access to the American market, backed by a team that understands how to move quickly, serve locally, and scale effectively.' Mr. Luiz Fuschini, COO of Nedia Fiber, added: 'Our alliance with Birla Cable is about execution. We are enabling the market with inventory flowing into the U.S. and strategic locations in South America. With a committed supply chain, we are ready to support projects with speed, precision, and trust. This is a bold step forward for both companies and for the industry across the Americas.' About Nedia Fiber Nedia Fiber provides agile, customer-focused optical fiber cable supply solutions throughout the Americas. The company delivers fiber solutions with speed, technical support, and reliable execution. About Birla Cable Ltd. Birla Cable Ltd., part of the M.P. Birla Group, is a leading Indian manufacturer of optical fiber and cables. Publicly listed and globally recognized, operates with its state-of-the-art production facilities and a commitment to technological innovation and product excellence.
Newsweek
27 minutes ago
- Newsweek
Social Security Update: Senator Warns Agency Hiding 'Extent of the Problem'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Massachusetts Democrat, called for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to provide more accurate and detailed information about the agency's phone call wait times on Sunday, warning the agency may be hiding "the extent of the problem" from policymakers and the public. In a letter sent to SSA Commissioner Frank Bisignano and obtained by The Hill, Warren asked for additional data, following up on a commitment she secured from Bisignano for a public audit regarding call wait time data and increased transparency in reporting. Why It Matters Social Security serves over 70 million Americans, including retirees, the disabled, and survivors, making the accessibility and responsiveness of its services crucial for millions who depend on timely benefits. Persistent issues with customer service, especially prolonged call wait times, can directly impact vulnerable populations' ability to access critical support. According to recent data and advocacy groups, ongoing administrative challenges and staffing concerns have already resulted in long delays and confusion for benefit recipients. Trust in the system's reliability is a growing public concern as the U.S. faces discussions over the program's long-term future and funding. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) speaks during a rally opposing House Republicans Tax Proposal prior to the final House vote on Capitol Hill on May 21, 2025, in Washington, D.C. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) speaks during a rally opposing House Republicans Tax Proposal prior to the final House vote on Capitol Hill on May 21, 2025, in Washington, Families Over Billionaires What To Know Senator Warren's renewed inquiry stems from findings by her staff, most recently in June, that showed some SSA phone wait times averaged around one hour and 45 minutes, with some callers reporting delays of over three hours. In her letter, Warren wrote, "The SSA is failing to provide policymakers and the public with accurate information about the extent of the problem, using convoluted calculations to obfuscate the real data, or withholding information entirely." The senator called for an Inspector General-led public audit of the agency's reporting procedures for phone wait times. She thanked Bisignano for agreeing to such an audit but did not specify a timeline. Warren's letter requested that by August 11, the SSA provide the total number of calls received; details on calls handled by an artificial intelligence tool, including the percentage dropped, transferred, or ended unresolved; and similar details for calls handled by human representatives. Warren also criticized the SSA for what she called the distribution of an "inaccurate and overtly partisan email" regarding the so-called "Big Beautiful Bill," alleging that it included false information about eliminating federal taxes on Social Security benefits. "Warren is absolutely right about one thing," Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek. "The email that went out claiming 90 percent of Social Security beneficiaries will no longer pay taxes on their benefits was flat-out false. It was political propaganda dressed up as government communication. The message even praised the OBBA and mentioned Trump by name, which is a direct politicization of a government agency. That's unacceptable." The SSA has faced scrutiny for changes implemented under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which was initially led by billionaire advisor Elon Musk before he parted ways with the Trump administration in late May. The SSA has faced staffing cuts and office closures that have contributed to service delays since then. In one notable incident in April, a technical error on the SSA website incorrectly notified Supplement Security Income recipients their benefits had ended, compounding concerns among the vulnerable populations it serves. Newsweek reached out to the SSA for comment via email. What People Are Saying Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "The SSA has started implementing new tech systems, which could eventually improve things, but that takes time. What doesn't help is letting go of experienced staff or forcing early exits, only to expect automation to solve every problem overnight." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "Senator Warren is concerned based on data she's received that release doesn't reflect the reality of what's actually happening, with internal reports saying wait times for call have actually increased in some situations, not decreased. It's important to have an accurate reflection of this information, too. With Social Security facing a shortfall in the coming years, legislators need to know if the administration can truly get by with a smaller staff or not." What Happens Next Commissioner Bisignano has committed to an Inspector General audit, though a date was not detailed by Warren or the SSA. By August 11, the agency is expected to provide the requested call data to Warren's office. The SSA's reported willingness to undergo greater independent scrutiny could lead to further reforms in customer service procedures and increased congressional oversight, depending on audit findings. "Understaffing, especially after DOGE budget cuts, has left fewer hands to handle an aging and growing beneficiary population," Thompson said. "Until those gaps are filled and systems are modernized, people will continue to sit on hold for hours just trying to get basic help."
CBS News
27 minutes ago
- CBS News
3 big bankruptcy risks to know before filing this August
Filing for bankruptcy is often viewed as a last resort option — a way to hit the reset button when your debts have spiraled out of control. And, this summer, many Americans are reaching that crossroads. Credit card balances are climbing, interest rates remain high and the lingering effects of inflation are stretching household budgets thin. As a result, there's been an uptick in personal bankruptcy inquiries and filings as more people turn to bankruptcy for a way out of their serious debt issues. But while filing for bankruptcy can erase many types of debt and offer legal protections from your creditors, it's not a free pass. The process is complex, public, and, in many cases, expensive. Plus, the financial repercussions that come with taking this route are long-lasting and can ripple far into the future. And, depending on the type of bankruptcy you file, you may also still be responsible for repaying some of your debts. So, while bankruptcy can provide vital relief from overwhelming debt, it's essential to understand the risks that come with it before making any moves this August. Find out what strategies you can use to reduce your debt today. Before you rush to a bankruptcy attorney's office, make sure you weigh the following risks to ensure that this type of relief is right for you: Bankruptcy can provide relief from your expensive debts, but it leaves a lasting scar on your credit report in return. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which eliminates eligible unsecured debts like credit cards, stays on your credit report for 10 years. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which involves a repayment plan, sticks around for seven. During that time, your ability to borrow may be limited or come with extremely high interest rates compared to those offered to prime borrowers. As a result, getting approved for a mortgage, car loan or even a credit card could be difficult. And even if you do get approved, your options may be limited to subprime lenders that charge steep fees. That's not to say you can't rebuild your credit after bankruptcy — you can. But it takes time, patience and discipline. So if you're thinking about filing this August, be prepared for navigating a long road back to good credit. Chat with a debt relief expert about the help that's available to you now. Bankruptcy doesn't always mean you're getting a clean slate, not without making sacrifices, anyway. Depending on the type of bankruptcy and the laws in your state, you could be required to give up certain possessions, like a second car, investment properties or even part of your home equity. With Chapter 7 bankruptcy, for example, a court-appointed trustee may sell off your non-exempt assets to repay creditors. And while many states allow you to keep essentials like your primary home, personal items and tools of your trade, the exemptions vary. File in the wrong state or get the timing wrong and you could lose more than you expect. On the other hand, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy may allow you to keep more of your property, but you'll need to stick to a three- to five-year repayment plan, which can be strict and burdensome. If you miss payments, you risk having your bankruptcy case dismissed entirely. Bankruptcy isn't just a financial event. It can also have wide-reaching personal and professional consequences. Employers, landlords and insurance companies may consider your credit history when making decisions. And, while they may not always deny you solely for filing bankruptcy, it could work against you in certain situations, like a competitive rental market. Some professional licenses and security clearances may also be affected, depending on your industry and employer. And there's an emotional weight to filing for bankruptcy, too, as the process can be invasive, requiring you to disclose all of your financial details. Before filing for bankruptcy, it's usually worth exploring the alternative options that could help you get out of debt without the long-term consequences. These include: Filing for bankruptcy can offer relief from overwhelming debt, but it comes with serious tradeoffs. From damaged credit to potential asset loss and long-term limitations, the consequences can stretch far beyond the short term. So, before you take that step, explore every alternative. The right solution may not be the fastest, but it could save you time, money and stress in the long run.
