The Canadian passport now outranks the US passport — and many Americans may already have a claim to one

Canadian passport holders can now travel visa-free to more destinations than holders of only United States (US) passports.

For decades, the US passport was seen as the world’s strongest travel document. But over the years, that gap has narrowed — and then, starting in 2025, Canada pulled ahead.

But Americans need not be left behind—many already have a path to a stronger second passport, thanks to their family tree.

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In the same year Canada’s passport overtook the US's, a new Canadian citizenship law expanded eligibility to millions of Americans with Canadian ancestry — potentially giving them access to Canadian citizenship.

Two decades ago, the United States held number one spot at the inception of the Henley Passport Index, which ranks passports by the number of destinations their holders can access without obtaining a visa in advance.

Back then, Canada's passport ranked in the sixth position. Over the years, the US passport had consistently matched or outperformed Canada's when it comes to global mobility.

Then in January 2025, the Canadian passport ranked ahead for the first time – and stayed ahead.

As of April 2026, the Canadian passport ranks in the seventh position, with its holders having visa-free access to 182 destinations. The US passport lies in tenth place, with visa-free access to 179 locations.

The gap of three countries may seem small, but the symbolism is striking. In a world with tightening borders, this points towards an interesting trend, one involving less administrative work, greater flexibility, and stronger global mobility for Canadian passport holders.

Note: The Henley Passport Index is updated monthly.

How some Americans are now eligible for a Canadian passport too

Thanks to the passing of a new Canadian citizenship law, millions of Americans may now also have access to Canadian passports – and the many benefits that come with it.

Americans with Canadian ancestry may already be Canadian citizens, as Canada’s new law eliminated the first-generation limit to citizenship by descent for those born prior to December 15, 2025.

Those who can trace a line of descent to a Canadian ancestor — whether a parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, or further back — can apply for proof of citizenship, even if their family has been born and raised in the United States for generations.

Unlike a citizenship grant application for immigrants being naturalized, applying for proof of citizenship does not require taking a a test, establishing a residency period, or swearing an oath.

After having obtained a proof of citizenship certificate, a Canadian citizen by descent can apply for a Canadian passport.

In addition to providing visa-free access to additional destinations, a Canadian passport can also open the door to International Experience Canada, a program that allows eligible Canadian citizens aged 18 to 35 to work abroad in 36 partner countries.

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In contrast, a US passport only grants working holiday visas in only six countries: Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea.

You can check your eligibility for Canadian citizenship through CanadaVisa's citizenship by descent calculator.

Visa-free destinations for Canadian, but not US passports

China

Canada’s passport allows visa-free entry to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. This means easier access to the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, Beijing’s hutongs (alleyways), Shanghai’s glittering skyline, Chengdu’s teahouses and fiery food, and getting lost in expansive rice terraces of Longji.

Earlier this year, China expanded visa-free access for Canadian passport holders, allowing stays of up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, exchange travel, and transit. The measure is set to remain in effect until at least December 31, 2026.

For most US passport holders, a visa is still required before travel.

Papua New Guinea

Canadian passport holders can also receive a visa on arrival at Jacksons International Airport in this island country, north of Australia.

It happens to be one of the Pacific’s most extraordinary and least-travelled destinations, with bustling markets in Port Moresby, not to mention rainforests and volcanic beaches, coral-rich waters, stunning trails, and island cultures in Milne Bay,

US passport holders must obtain a physical visa or eVisa in advance.

Note: As of the time of writing, The U.S. Department of State advises travellers to reconsider travel to Papua New Guinea due to crime and civil unrest.

Belarus

Beyond, Belarus also offers more access to Canadian passport holders. Travellers can wander through Minsk’s wide boulevards, admire the Soviet-era architecture, explore the stunning turreted castles in the countryside in Mir and Nesvizh, or immerse themselves in nature on an ancient trail in Belovezhskaya Pushcha national park.

US passport holders generally need a visa to travel to Belarus.

Note: As of the time of writing, The U.S. Department of State advises Do Not Travel to Belarus, citing unrest and other risks.

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