We rank the United States passport as number 6 in the world in line with our Passport Index ratings. As a United States citizen, you’ll be able to travel visa-free to 178 countries. To gain access to all other countries, you and your family as United States passport holders will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visa online in advance. Certain countries will allow you to apply for a visa on arrival.
As a United States passport holder, you are permitted to travel visa-free to 178 countries and territories. This data is correct as of August 2024.
In order to travel visa-free, you will need a valid passport, often with at least six months until expiry. Additionally, you may need travel insurance, as required by your destination country.
Within these countries, there is often a separate section in airports where you can submit your Visa on Arrival. You will receive your visa on arrival (VOA) after entering the country that issued the visa.
Acquiring an eVisa follows the same process as applying for a traditional visa. The main difference with an eVisa is that you don’t need to visit a visa application centre. You can submit your application online, including making any payments relating to the visa.
Once the relevant authorities approve your application, you will receive a confirmation email regarding your visa status, along with a document that you must print and bring with you when crossing the border.
You will need a valid visa to enter the 178 countries with a United States passport.
The United States, a North American federal republic, is made up of 50 states. Washington, D.C. is the capital. It’s the fourth largest country in the world in area, with only Russia, Canada, and China bigger.
Home to under 5% of the global population, the US nevertheless produces around 1/5th of the world’s economic output. This makes it the world’s strongest economy. No other country can match its GDP.
The US is an immigration success story with millions moving to its shores to experience the American Dream. The Land of Opportunity has largely rewarded its citizens with levels of wealth unparallelled in other countries. In terms of the world’s most powerful passports, the US passport affords visa-free access to 176 destinations.