Indian Passport vs Pakistani Passport: Full 2026 Comparison
The Indian passport and the Pakistani passport are two of the most-compared South Asian travel documents -- used by nearly 2 billion people combined. While both passports require visas for most Western destinations, they differ meaningfully in how many countries they can access visa-free, and in specific bilateral arrangements.
India
Pakistan
Quick Answers
Which is stronger -- the Indian passport or the Pakistani passport?
The Indian passport is stronger by most standard measures. In 2026, Indian passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 62 countries, versus approximately 34 for Pakistani passport holders. India ranks around #80 on the Henley Passport Index; Pakistan ranks around #104.
How many countries can Indians visit visa-free vs Pakistanis?
Indians can visit approximately 62 countries visa-free or on arrival. Pakistanis can visit approximately 34. The difference comes from bilateral agreements -- more countries have signed visa-free deals with India than with Pakistan due to India''s larger diplomatic and economic footprint.
Do Indians and Pakistanis both need a visa for the USA?
Yes. Both nationalities require a B1/B2 visa for the United States. The process, fee (USD 185 MRV), and interview requirement are the same. Processing and wait times can differ by consulate location and nationality-specific demand volumes.
Can Pakistanis visit India, and can Indians visit Pakistan?
Travel between India and Pakistan requires a special visa with significant restrictions. Pakistani nationals can apply for an Indian visa, but it is subject to city-specific restrictions and complex requirements. Indian nationals visiting Pakistan similarly need a Pakistani visa under special bilateral conditions. Tourism between the two countries is very limited due to the diplomatic situation.
Which passport has better access to Southeast Asia?
Both passports require visas for some Southeast Asian countries. Indian passport holders have a bilateral visa-free arrangement with Malaysia (30 days); Pakistani nationals need a Malaysia eVisa. Both can access Indonesia/Bali via eVOA. For Thailand: Indian passport holders enjoy 30-day visa-free access; Pakistani passport holders require a prior visa. Overall, the Indian passport has modestly better Southeast Asia access.
Key Destinations: India vs Pakistan Passport Access
| Destination | India | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| UAE (Dubai) | Visa Required (AED 350-500) | Visa Required (AED 350-500) |
| Saudi Arabia | Tourist eVisa (SAR 535) | Tourist eVisa (SAR 535) |
| Schengen Area | Visa Required (EUR 90) | Visa Required (EUR 90) |
| United States | B1/B2 Visa (USD 185) | B1/B2 Visa (USD 185) |
| United Kingdom | Visa Required (GBP 115) | Visa Required (GBP 115) |
| Canada | TRV Visa Required (CAD 185) | TRV Visa Required (CAD 185) |
| Australia | Visa Required (AUD 190) | Visa Required (AUD 190) |
| Japan | Visa Required (JPY 3,000) | Visa Required (JPY 3,000) |
| Malaysia | Visa-Free (30 days) | eVisa Required (MYR 100) |
| Thailand | Visa-Free (30 days) | Visa Required |
| Indonesia (Bali) | eVOA (IDR 500,000) | Check eligibility / B211A |
| Nepal | Visa-Free (unlimited) | Visa Required |
| Sri Lanka | eVisa (USD 20-35) | eVisa (USD 20-35) |
| Maldives | Visa-Free (30 days) | Visa-Free (30 days) |
| Kenya | eVisa Required | eVisa Required |
| Turkey | e-Visa (USD 50) | Visa Required |
| Iran | Visa on Arrival (30 days) | Visa-Free (3 months) |
| China | Visa Required | Visa-Free (up to 90 days) |
Where the Pakistani Passport Wins
There are a few destinations where Pakistani passport holders actually have an advantage:
- China: Pakistan and China have a strong bilateral relationship. Pakistani nationals can visit China visa-free for up to 90 days. Indian nationals require a prior China visa.
- Iran: Pakistani nationals can visit Iran visa-free for 3 months. Indian nationals require a visa-on-arrival (30 days), which is less flexible.
Where the Indian Passport Wins
- Malaysia: Visa-free for Indians (30 days, bilateral arrangement). Pakistani nationals need a Malaysia eVisa (MYR 100).
- Thailand: Visa-free for Indian passport holders (30 days). Pakistani nationals require a prior Thailand visa.
- Nepal and Bhutan: Indian nationals can enter Nepal without a passport (national ID accepted) and have special free travel arrangements with Bhutan. Pakistani nationals require a visa for both.
- Turkey: Indian nationals can get a Turkey e-Visa online (USD 50). Pakistani nationals require a full embassy visa for Turkey.
- Overall Southeast Asia: Indian passport has modestly broader access across ASEAN countries.
Both Passports: Shared Requirements
For the most popular international destinations, both Indian and Pakistani passport holders face the same visa requirements:
- UAE, Schengen, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan: Visa required for both
- Saudi Arabia: Tourist eVisa (SAR 535) available online for both
- Maldives: Visa-free for both (30 days)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does holding an Indian passport affect my ability to get a Pakistan visa?
Indian nationals can apply for a Pakistani visa, but the process is complex with city-specific restrictions and generally requires a specific reason (family visit, religious pilgrimage, business). Tourism is extremely limited. The diplomatic relationship between India and Pakistan directly affects visa issuance for both nationalities.
Can Indian and Pakistani dual citizens exist?
India does not recognize dual citizenship. Once an Indian citizen acquires foreign nationality (including Pakistani), they are required to surrender their Indian passport. Similarly, Pakistan does not readily allow dual nationality with India. In practice, India-Pakistan dual citizenship is not a functional reality.
Which passport is growing faster in strength?
India''s passport has been gaining access to more destinations as India''s diplomatic and economic relationships have expanded. Multiple new bilateral visa-free arrangements (Malaysia, several African countries) have been signed in recent years. Pakistan''s passport access has remained relatively stable. Both are progressing, but India''s trajectory has been faster in recent years.
⚠ Data note. Passport visa-free access figures are approximate, based on early 2026 Henley Passport Index data, and include visa-free and visa-on-arrival access. They change as bilateral agreements are signed or suspended. Always verify current requirements for specific destinations.
Last reviewed: February 2026 · About · Report inaccuracy