The Moldovan citizens have visa-free access to 110 countries, with Moldova being placed 48th in the Passport Index. In 2017, the country was ranked 54th. The figures were presented by expert of the Institute for Development and Social Initiative “Viitorul” Rosian Vasiloi on his blog, with reference to the Henley & Partners’ Visa Restrictions Index released on January 9.

Germany holds on to first place for the fifth year running, with its citizens enjoying visa-free access to 177 countries in total. Singapore ranks second with visa-free travel to 176 counties, while the third position is shared by eight states, namely the UK, Denmark, Italy, Norway, Finland, France, Sweden, and Japan. The citizens of these countries can travel visa-free to 175 states.

Romania came in 20th place, tied with Bulgaria. Their citizens have visa-free access to 156 countries. Ukraine ranks 44th with access to 114 countries. It significantly improved its position after it obtained visa-free access to the Schengen Area in 2017.

The countries that offer the most credible citizenship-by-investment programs in the world consistently perform strongly on the Henley Passport Index. Malta offers the top-ranked investment migration program globally, with required investments totaling €1-2 million. It holds the world’s 9th most powerful passport and offers visa-free access to 169 countries. Austria also makes it into the top 10, with access to a total of 174 countries. An Austrian passport can be obtained for investments of €8-10 million. Cyprus is not far behind in 17th place, with 159 countries accessible visa-free. Last year Moldova also modified its legislation to provide citizenship by investments of €130,000.