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IN PHOTO A new British biometric passport is shown atop a special reader can take the holder's information off an embedded security chip, during a showing for the press at the British Embassy in Washington, October 24, 2005. Under the first phase of a week-long test of the UK's new biometric passport issuing system, the new biometric passports are embedded with features like a security chip bearing the passport holder's personal information along with other security features to help prevent passport forgery. All 27 nations that currently hold special visa-free status with the U.S. are required to begin issuing biometric passports by October 26, 2006 in order to meet U.S. government passport control deadlines. REUTERS/Jason Reed

A passport from the United States of America helps its holder gain access to 172 countries and is ranked as the most powerful passport in the world. It has regained the number one spot and has been the one of the most sought after document globally.

According to the research conducted by the major financial firm, Arton Capital, the United States has the most powerful passport which enables greater mobility and accessibility across the globe. It helps the holders visit the countries without any visa or with least restrictions. Such passport holders can gain easy entry to over 170 countries followed by the UK and French passports. The top ten powerful passports belong to the European countries with South Korea debuting at number two for the Asian continent. Australia and New Zealand are also in the top eight most powerful passport list with over 150 countries allowing easy restriction-free entry to the holders.

The bottom ranked passports include that from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen and Sudan. For Afghanistan and Iraq, only 28 countries offer entry free visas. China has also been ranked poorly with only 78 countries allowing easy access.

Visas are important indicators for diplomatic power and friendly international relationship. Most countries require non-nationals to have an advance visa or purchase an entry visa to enter their territory. With friendly relations, however, some countries offer free access to certain passport holders which enables better business mobility.

For questions/comments regarding the article, you may email the writer at honeygeorge74.ibtimes@gmail.com.

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