What Makes New Zealand's Passport The Most Powerful in the World?

While it’s not yet safe to fly out and enjoy travels abroad, New Zealand has received the good news of having the most powerful passport in the world for 2020, according to Passport Index. NZ earlier in the year shared the same top spot as Japan, but the latter slipped into second place which makes NZ the sole top passport for this year. 

It’s not at all surprising that Kiwis are now able to travel visa-free in most countries around the world, given their previous achievements locally and their remarkable response to COVID-19, which they beat twice. These are just some of the reasons why an increasing number of foreigners are considering becoming Kiwi passport holders themselves.

What makes New Zealand’s passport the most powerful in the world?

Visa-free access to 129 countries

New Zealand climbed up to number one after containing the virus with only 1,866 cases as of October, and 25 deaths since it were first detected.

This is much fewer than the cases in Australia, Germany, USA, and South Korea, who have also gained access to more countries visa-free this year. 

Comprehensive design to prevent counterfeiting 

A passport's primary function is for identification and an instrument for when you travel overseas. Like any document, passports are commonly reproduced for criminal purposes, which is why the government made improvements in its design to prevent counterfeiting.

It has a comprehensive layout depicting navigation and travel, as well as colour changes, representing dawn to twilight. 

Easy application for anyone and anywhere in the world 

New Zealand has made it convenient for every Kiwi, regardless of age, to obtain a passport through online application no matter where they are in the world. Kiwis are able to apply and renew passports online and parents can apply on behalf of their children. They can also submit their own passport photo, provided that it meets all the requirements as to the size, background, and default facial expression. 

10-year validity for new adult passports 

Since 2015, adult passports are valid for 10 years, and a child passport has a 5-year validity. Take note that your passport should be free from damage, as you may be refused entry when you present it at the airport of your destination.

When you lose or damage your passport, it’s gone for good. You need to file another application and go through the same process. That’s why it’s important to secure your passport, as well as your safety when travelling abroad. The best way to do this is to find the best travel insurance that will cover you and your loved ones in case of emergencies, trip cancellations, delays, and other travel mishaps that may occur. 

If you’re all set to travel again after the pandemic, you can look at travel insurance using CompareBear and get the best deals according to your needs and lifestyle!