Brunei Passport Ranking: Visa-Free Access to 163 Countries in 2026

Brunei has enhanced its global mobility ranking, now offering visa-free access to 163 countries, according to recent data. The slight decrease from 166 countries in 2025 does not diminish the strength of the Brunei passport, which remains among the most powerful in Southeast Asia.

The improvement to 19th in global passport ranking reflects Brunei’s ongoing diplomatic efforts and strengthening international relationships. This ease of travel facilitates movement for tourism, business, and diplomatic purposes. Brunei established diplomatic relations with Japan in 1984 and has enjoyed cooperation in LNG trade since 1972, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to international partnerships.

In Europe, Bruneian citizens benefit from visa-free access to key economies and cultural centers including Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom. Access to the Schengen Area, encompassing 26 European countries, allows for seamless travel within much of the continent.

Throughout Asia, Brunei passport holders can travel without a visa to Japan, South Korea, and Cambodia, fostering engagement with some of the region’s most influential economies. Regional accessibility is further enhanced with visa-free travel to Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, promoting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange within Southeast Asia.

While access to Africa remains limited, Bruneian citizens can travel visa-free to Egypt and Mauritius. Egypt presents growing economic opportunities in sectors like mining and technology, while Mauritius offers tourism and financial sector engagement.

In the Americas, visa-free access extends to the United States, Canada, and Panama, strengthening diplomatic and trade ties. The United States, as a major economic power, provides investment and partnership opportunities. Similar access to Caribbean islands like Barbados, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia promotes tourism and cultural exchange.

Oceania offers access to Australia and New Zealand, both known for their advanced economies and tourism industries. Australia provides opportunities for trade and investment, while New Zealand offers cultural and tourism possibilities.

Key airlines facilitating international travel to and from Brunei include Royal Brunei Airlines, connecting the nation to Asia, Europe, and Australia, and Singapore Airlines, providing connections to global cities. Brunei International Airport serves as the primary international hub, supporting global mobility for Bruneian citizens.

The Brunei-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (BJEPA), signed in 2008, represents Brunei’s first and only bilateral economic partnership agreement, highlighting the importance of economic cooperation with Japan. Japan maintains an embassy in Singapore and Singapore maintains an embassy in Tokyo, demonstrating the strength of the relationship between the two countries.