South Africa holds the 100th spot in the passport rankings, with a score of 68.5. Experts rank passports not just by how many countries they allow visa-free access to, but also by looking at how the South African government handles international travel, taxation, dual citizenship, and personal freedom. These factors shape how easily South Africans can travel, live freely, follow international rules, and avoid extra inspection during international travel.
Here’s all you need to know about South Africa’s new ranking and the reasons behind it:
Travel Destinations from South Africa – 50% of Total Score
To calculate South Africa’s Travel score, data from 199 passport-issuing countries and territories were used. This score includes a Mobility Score (MS), which looks at how easily citizens can travel visa-free, with a visa on arrival (VOA), or through fast-track options like eTAs and eVisas (issued within three days). Based on this, South Africa was given a Travel score of 111. Passport holders can visit 111 destinations without needing a traditional visa.
Taxation in South Africa – 20% of Total Score
South Africa’s Taxation score was calculated using information from tax vendors, news sources, and official tax authorities. Lower scores were given to countries that tax citizens no matter where they live. Higher scores were given to countries with little to no taxation policies. South Africa received a Taxation score of 20, meaning citizens can relocate to avoid paying tax.
Perception of South Africa – 10% of Total Score
To calculate the Perception score, data from the World Happiness Report, the Human Development Index, and feedback from a global network was studied. Countries were ranked based on how their citizens are treated abroad—from facing hostility to being warmly welcomed. South Africa received a Perception score of 20, which means its citizens often face some level of hostility when traveling.
Dual Citizenship in South Africa – 10% of Total Score
Dual citizenship rules using embassy data was studied. Lower scores were given to countries that ban dual citizenship and higher scores to those that allow it freely. South Africa earned a Dual Citizenship score of 50. Its citizens are generally free to hold more than one passport.
Freedom in South Africa – 10% of Total Score
Freedom in South Africa was based on news reports and data about military service, government surveillance, press freedom, and personal liberties. Countries with more restrictions received lower scores. South Africa got a Freedom score of 20, indicating that its citizens have limited personal freedom compared to other nations.
If you have a South African passport, below are the countries that you can travel to and you will be issued with a VOA.
- Armenia
- Bahrain
- Bolivia
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Cabo Verde
- Comoros
- Ethiopia
- Guinea-Bissau
- Indonesia
- Jordan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Madagascar
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritania
- Nepal
- Palau
- Rwanda
- Saudi Arabia
- Senegal
- Seychelles
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- Sri Lanka
- Saint Helena
- Timor-Leste
- Tuvalu
For more information on eVisas visit Halaal Travels- eVisa
Disclaimer: Verify entry requirements for the countries that you are planning to visit prior to making any travel bookings.