Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Brazil in 2025?

Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Brazil. As of 2025, Brazil requires U.S. passport holders to obtain a visa prior to travel. This can be applied for online through the Brazilian e-visa system or at a Brazilian consulate. The visa requirement was reinstated after a period of visa-free access ended.

Can Americans travel to Russia with a U.S. passport?

Yes, but a visa is required. U.S. citizens must obtain a Russian visa before traveling to Russia. Due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and travel advisories, the U.S. State Department advises against travel to Russia. Visa processing may be complicated, and Americans should monitor embassy advisories closely before planning travel.

Which countries do NOT allow entry for U.S. passport holders?

U.S. passport holders face entry restrictions or visa requirements in several countries including North Korea (no tourist access), Turkmenistan (highly restricted), and regions with active travel bans. Countries like Afghanistan, Libya, Syria, Yemen, and Venezuela have U.S. State Department Level 4 advisories (Do Not Travel) due to safety concerns, though visas may technically be available.

Do U.S. citizens need a visa for China in 2025?

Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to visit China. A visa must be obtained in advance from a Chinese embassy or consulate. China does not offer visa-on-arrival or visa-free access to U.S. passport holders. However, certain transit exemptions (72-hour or 144-hour visa-free transit) may apply in select cities for eligible travelers.

Is military service mandatory for U.S. citizens?

No, the United States does not have mandatory military service. The U.S. operates an all-volunteer military. However, male U.S. citizens and immigrant men ages 18-25 must register with the Selective Service System, which maintains a database in case a draft is reinstated by Congress during a national emergency.

Can U.S. passport holders work in European countries without a visa?

No, U.S. passport holders can travel visa-free to most European countries (Schengen Area, UK, Ireland) for tourism for up to 90 days, but they cannot work without authorization. To work in Europe, Americans must obtain a work visa or permit sponsored by an employer. Starting in 2025, U.S. travelers need ETIAS authorization for Schengen countries (when implemented).

How long does it take to renew a U.S. passport in 2025?

As of 2025, routine U.S. passport processing takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited service takes 2-3 weeks (with additional fees). Expedited service at a passport agency or center can process passports in 1-2 business days for urgent travel. Online passport renewal is available for eligible applicants, potentially reducing processing times. Check the U.S. State Department website for current wait times.

Do Americans need an eTA or eVisa for Australia and New Zealand?

Yes. U.S. citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor for Australia, which can be obtained online before travel. For New Zealand, Americans must obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before arrival. Both are electronically linked to your passport and typically valid for multiple short visits over 1-2 years.

Can U.S. passport holders visit Cuba in 2025?

Yes, but with restrictions. U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba, but tourist travel is prohibited under U.S. law. Travel must fall under one of 12 authorized categories (family visits, professional research, educational activities, etc.). Travelers need a Cuban Tourist Card (visa) and must comply with U.S. Treasury Department regulations. Many travelers visit via third countries, though U.S. regulations still apply.

United States Passport Ranking – Visa Free Access to 180 Countries

🏠 RBI Available

The United States passport is a travel document issued to U.S. citizens for international travel, currently ranking 12th globally in 2025 with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 180 destinations. Historically, the U.S. passport has maintained strong global standing, ranking as high as 1st place in 2006 and 2014, though its position has gradually declined in recent years. Despite the ranking shift, it continues to offer excellent travel mobility and significant advantages for American citizens seeking hassle-free access to most countries worldwide.

Global Rank

#12

out of 199 countries

Visa Free Access

180

countries worldwide

Mobility Score

out of 100 points

Quick Statistics for United States passport

135

Visa-Free

On Arrival

ETA Required

E-Visa

Visa Required

Source: Skyscanner & Official Government Websites.

Top Visa-Free Destinations for American Citizens

Popular destinations where United States passport holders can travel without a visa:

Country	Maximum Stay	Code
United Kingdom	Up to 180 days	GB
France	Up to 90 days	FR
Italy	Up to 90 days	IT
Spain	Up to 90 days	ES
Japan	Up to 90 days	JP

Visa Requirements by Country

Complete breakdown of visa requirements for United States passport holders

✅ Visa-Free

135 countries

🛬 Visa on Arrival

35 countries

🔐 ETA Required

10 countries

💻 E-Visa

25 countries

❌ Visa Required

21 countries

Historical Ranking Trend

United States's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Trend: Declined by 11 positions from 2006 to 2025

Citizenship and Residency Programs

🏠 Residency by Investment (RBI)

Obtain residency in United States through qualified investments, with potential pathways to citizenship.

RBI Program Available

Official United States Passport & Travel Resources

Access official government resources for passport services, travel advisories, and visa information:

🔗

U.S. Department of State - Passports

🔗

U.S. Department of State - International Travel

🔗

U.S. Customs and Border Protection - Travel

🔗

U.S. Department of State - Country Information

🔗

USA.gov - Passports and International Travel

🔗

U.S. Department of State - Travel Advisories

Compare United States Passport with Other Passports

See how United States's passport compares with other AMERICAS in the same ranking tier:

Country	Rank	Visa-Free Destinations	Mobility Score	Global Score
United States (You are here)	#12	180	85/100	88/100
Canada	#9	183	85/100	88/100
Chile	#16	175	75/100	92/100
Brazil	#19	169	67/100	81/100
Argentina	#19	169	72/100	81/100

*Mobility score calculated based on visa-free access and global travel freedom.

*Global score reflects overall passport strength considering various factors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

As of 2025, U.S. passport holders can access 180 destinations without a prior visa. This includes 145 visa-free countries, 35 visa-on-arrival destinations, and 10 countries requiring electronic travel authorization (eTA). The U.S. passport ranks 12th globally on the Henley Passport Index, down from 7th place in 2024.

Explore More Passport Rankings

Discover United States's passport power and compare with other countries to find the world's most powerful travel documents.

View All Passport Rankings

Last Updated: November 9, 2025

Source: IATA Travel Centre, Skyscanner & Official Government Websites.

United States Passport Ranking – Visa Free Access to 180 Countries

🏠 RBI Available

Country

Maximum Stay

Code

Up to 180 days

Up to 90 days

Up to 90 days

Up to 90 days

Up to 90 days

Historical Ranking Trend

United States's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Trend: Declined by 11 positions from 2006 to 2025

Compare United States Passport with Other Passports

See how United States's passport compares with other AMERICAS in the same ranking tier:

Country	Rank	Visa-Free Destinations	Mobility Score	Global Score
United States (You are here)	#12	180	85/100	88/100
Canada	#9	183	85/100	88/100
Chile	#16	175	75/100	92/100
Brazil	#19	169	67/100	81/100
Argentina	#19	169	72/100	81/100

*Mobility score calculated based on visa-free access and global travel freedom.

*Global score reflects overall passport strength considering various factors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Quick Statistics for United States passport

Top Visa-Free Destinations for American Citizens

Visa Requirements by Country

✅ Visa-Free

🛬 Visa on Arrival

🔐 ETA Required

💻 E-Visa

❌ Visa Required

Historical Ranking Trend

United States's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Citizenship and Residency Programs

🏠 Residency by Investment (RBI)

Official United States Passport & Travel Resources

Compare United States Passport with Other Passports

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many countries can U.S. passport holders visit without a visa in 2025?

Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Brazil in 2025?

Can Americans travel to Russia with a U.S. passport?

Which countries do NOT allow entry for U.S. passport holders?

Do U.S. citizens need a visa for China in 2025?

Is military service mandatory for U.S. citizens?

Can U.S. passport holders work in European countries without a visa?

How long does it take to renew a U.S. passport in 2025?

Do Americans need an eTA or eVisa for Australia and New Zealand?

Can U.S. passport holders visit Cuba in 2025?

Explore More Passport Rankings

Quick Statistics for United States passport

Top Visa-Free Destinations for American Citizens

Visa Requirements by Country

✅ Visa-Free

🛬 Visa on Arrival

🔐 ETA Required

💻 E-Visa

❌ Visa Required

Historical Ranking Trend

United States's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Citizenship and Residency Programs

🏠 Residency by Investment (RBI)

Official United States Passport & Travel Resources

Compare United States Passport with Other Passports

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many countries can U.S. passport holders visit without a visa in 2025?

Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Brazil in 2025?

Can Americans travel to Russia with a U.S. passport?

Which countries do NOT allow entry for U.S. passport holders?

Do U.S. citizens need a visa for China in 2025?

Is military service mandatory for U.S. citizens?

Can U.S. passport holders work in European countries without a visa?

How long does it take to renew a U.S. passport in 2025?

Do Americans need an eTA or eVisa for Australia and New Zealand?

Can U.S. passport holders visit Cuba in 2025?

Explore More Passport Rankings