Passport strength refers to the number of countries a passport holder can visit without a visa or with visa-on-arrival access. In South America, several countries have made significant progress in global mobility.
Chile Leads the Region
Chile consistently holds the title for the strongest passport in South America. As of 2025, Chilean citizens can travel to over 177 countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival, including the Schengen Area, UK, and parts of Asia.
Argentina Close Behind
Argentina is a strong competitor, offering visa-free access to approximately 171 countries. Its passport allows easy travel across Europe and most of the Americas, making it a desirable nationality for global movement.
4. Brazil: A Global Player
With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 170 countries, Brazil ranks among the top South American nations. Recent visa agreements with Asian countries have further boosted its passport power.
5. Uruguay’s Rising Strength
Uruguayans can travel to around 153 countries without needing a visa. The country’s political stability and economic reputation have strengthened its international standing.
6. Mid-Ranked: Paraguay, Peru, and Colombia
These nations offer access to 130–145 countries. While not as powerful as Chile or Argentina, their passports still provide respectable travel freedom, especially within Latin America and Europe.
7. Lower-Ranked: Bolivia, Ecuador, Venezuela
Passports from these countries offer more limited mobility—around 80–110 countries. Political and diplomatic challenges often affect their visa waiver agreements.
8. Conclusion: A Region of Growth
South America’s passport power continues to rise. While Chile remains at the top, countries like Brazil and Argentina are not far behind. Regional cooperation and global diplomacy may further boost passport strength across the continent.
