1. What is the current ranking of Burundi’s passport on the Passport Index?
As of the latest update, the Burundi passport is ranked at 83 on the Passport Index. This ranking indicates the level of visa-free access or visa on arrival privileges that Burundi passport holders can enjoy when traveling to other countries. The Passport Index ranks passports from around the world based on the number of countries that can be visited without requiring a visa or by obtaining a visa on arrival. The higher the ranking, the greater the freedom of travel a passport provides its holders. The Burundi passport’s current ranking at 83 means that there are 41 countries where Burundian citizens can travel to without a visa, or by obtaining a visa on arrival. It is important for travelers to always check visa requirements and conditions before embarking on any international trip to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
2. How many countries can Burundi passport holders visit without a visa?
Burundi passport holders can visit 51 countries without the need for a visa. This places the Burundi passport at a ranking of 102 in the Passport Index, based on the number of visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations it allows access to. The visa policies and agreements between nations can vary and change over time, so it is advisable for passport holders to check the specific requirements and conditions before planning any international travel. Nevertheless, having visa-free access to 51 countries provides a moderate level of travel flexibility for Burundi passport holders.
3. What are some of the visa-free countries for Burundi passport holders?
As an expert in the field of Passport Index of Burundi, I can provide you with some of the visa-free countries that Burundi passport holders can visit without obtaining a visa. Some of the visa-free countries for Burundi passport holders include:
1. Kenya
2. Uganda
3. Rwanda
These countries are part of the East African Community (EAC) and have visa exemption agreements in place for citizens of member countries. Additionally, some other visa-free countries for Burundi passport holders may include Seychelles, Mauritius, and countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). It is important for Burundi passport holders to always check the visa requirements before traveling to any country, as visa policies can change frequently.
4. How does the Burundi passport rank compared to other African countries?
As of 2021, the Burundi passport ranks quite low compared to many other African countries in terms of passport power and visa-free access to other countries. The Burundi passport is currently ranked among the lowest in Africa and globally on the Passport Index. Burundian passport holders typically have limited visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to other countries, resulting in a lower ranking. In comparison to other African countries, many other nations on the continent have significantly stronger passports, offering their citizens more extensive visa-free travel opportunities globally. For example, countries like Seychelles, Mauritius, and South Africa have higher-ranking passports in Africa, providing their citizens with better travel privileges and access to a larger number of destinations without the need for a visa.
5. Are there any recent changes in the visa requirements for Burundi passport holders?
As an expert in the field of Passport Index of Burundi, I can confirm that there have been recent changes in the visa requirements for Burundi passport holders. Here are some key updates:
1. Visa-Free Access: Burundi passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries around the world. The specific list of countries may vary depending on bilateral agreements, geopolitical factors, and other considerations.
2. Visa Restrictions: Some countries have imposed visa restrictions or tightened visa requirements for Burundi passport holders due to various reasons such as security concerns, diplomatic relations, or immigration control measures. It is essential for Burundi passport holders to check the latest visa requirements before planning their international travels.
3. COVID-19 Impact: The global pandemic has caused disruptions in international travel, leading to temporary changes in visa policies, entry restrictions, and quarantine requirements for all passport holders, including those from Burundi. It is crucial for travelers to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and regulations before embarking on a trip.
In conclusion, recent changes in visa requirements for Burundi passport holders highlight the importance of staying updated on international travel regulations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
6. How powerful is the Burundi passport in terms of global mobility?
The Burundi passport is not considered powerful in terms of global mobility. According to the Henley Passport Index, which ranks the strength of passports based on the number of countries their holders can travel to without a visa, the Burundi passport is ranked quite low. As of 2021, the Burundi passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 50 countries, placing it towards the bottom of the global passport rankings. This limited visa-free access restricts the freedom of Burundian passport holders to travel internationally compared to passport holders from countries with stronger passports. Travelers holding a Burundi passport may need to apply for visas in advance for many destinations, making it more cumbersome and costly to travel compared to those with passports from countries with greater global mobility.
7. What are some of the factors that contribute to the ranking of the Burundi passport on the Passport Index?
Several factors contribute to the ranking of the Burundi passport on the Passport Index. Here are some of the key determinants:
1. Visa-Free Access: The number of countries that Burundi passport holders can visit without a visa greatly impacts its ranking on the Passport Index. The more visa-free access a passport provides, the higher its ranking is likely to be.
2. Diplomatic Relations: The strength of Burundi’s diplomatic relations with other countries plays a significant role in the visa requirements for its passport holders. Positive diplomatic ties can result in favorable visa policies, boosting the passport’s ranking.
3. International Agreements: Bilateral and multilateral agreements, such as visa waiver agreements or regional cooperation agreements, can influence the passport’s ranking by expanding travel opportunities for its holders.
4. Security and Stability: Factors like security risks and political stability in Burundi can also impact the passport’s ranking. Countries may impose stricter visa requirements for passports from nations facing security challenges.
5. Economic Strength: The economic strength of Burundi as a nation can influence its passport ranking. Countries with stronger economies often have greater global influence, leading to more favorable visa policies for their citizens.
6. Passport Issuance Criteria: The criteria for issuing Burundi passports, such as background checks and vetting processes, can also affect the passport’s ranking. Countries with stringent issuance standards may be viewed more favorably by other nations.
7. International Rankings: Burundi’s overall global standing and its reputation on international indices can indirectly impact the ranking of its passport. Positive rankings in areas like human rights, rule of law, and transparency may contribute to a higher passport ranking.
8. Are there any visa facilitation agreements that Burundi has with other countries?
Yes, Burundi has visa facilitation agreements with several countries to make travel easier for its citizens. Some of these agreements include:
1. A visa waiver agreement with Kenya, allowing Burundian passport holders to enter Kenya without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
2. A visa exemption agreement with Rwanda, enabling Burundian passport holders to enter Rwanda without a visa for short stays.
3. A mutual visa exemption agreement with Tanzania, granting visa-free entry for nationals of both countries for visits of up to 90 days.
4. A visa facilitation agreement with Uganda, allowing Burundian passport holders to obtain a visa on arrival at designated entry points.
These agreements aim to promote regional integration, ease cross-border travel, and foster diplomatic relations between Burundi and its neighboring countries.
9. How does the Burundi passport compare to passports of neighboring countries in terms of visa-free access?
As an expert in the field of Passport Index of Burundi, I can confidently say that the Burundi passport ranks relatively low in terms of visa-free access compared to passports of neighboring countries. The Burundi passport allows its holders to travel to a limited number of countries without requiring a visa, primarily within the African continent.
1. Rwanda: The Rwandan passport generally offers better visa-free access compared to the Burundi passport, with the ability to travel to several countries in Europe, Asia, and the Americas without a visa.
2. Tanzania: The Tanzanian passport also typically provides more visa-free access than the Burundi passport, allowing its holders to travel to various countries around the world without prior visa arrangements.
3. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC): The DRC passport may have similar visa-free access to the Burundi passport, primarily focusing on African countries and requiring visas for most other destinations.
In conclusion, the Burundi passport is often considered to have limited visa-free access compared to passports of neighboring countries, restricting the travel opportunities available to its holders.
10. Is there a trend of improvement or decline in the global ranking of the Burundi passport?
In the global ranking of passport strength, the Burundi passport has shown a trend of decline in recent years. According to the Passport Index, which ranks passports based on the number of countries their holders can visit without a visa or with visa on arrival, the Burundi passport has consistently held a low position in the index. The decline in ranking is mainly attributed to restricted travel access for Burundi passport holders, which limits their mobility compared to passport holders of many other countries. This decline in ranking reflects the challenges and limitations faced by Burundi passport holders when it comes to international travel and highlights the importance of diplomatic relations and international agreements in passport power. As of the latest data available, the Burundi passport is ranked among the lowest in the world, further emphasizing the ongoing trend of decline in its global ranking.
11. How does the Burundi passport’s ranking impact its citizens’ ability to travel and work abroad?
The ranking of the Burundi passport on the Passport Index plays a significant role in determining the freedom and ease of travel for its citizens. A lower ranking on the Passport Index indicates that the passport may have limited visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to other countries. This can directly impact Burundian citizens’ ability to travel and work abroad in the following ways:
1. Visa requirements: A lower-ranked passport may require Burundian citizens to obtain visas for many countries, which can be a time-consuming and expensive process.
2. Travel restrictions: Certain countries may impose travel restrictions or limitations on individuals holding passports with lower rankings, affecting the ease of travel for Burundian passport holders.
3. Business opportunities: Limited visa-free access may restrict business opportunities for Burundian citizens looking to work or conduct business abroad, hindering their ability to network and collaborate on an international scale.
4. Employment prospects: Employers in countries with stricter visa regulations may be less inclined to hire individuals with passports from lower-ranked countries, affecting the job prospects of Burundian citizens seeking work abroad.
Overall, the ranking of the Burundi passport on the Passport Index directly impacts its citizens’ mobility, opportunities, and quality of life when it comes to international travel and work.
12. Are there any limitations or restrictions on the use of the Burundi passport for international travel?
Yes, there are limitations and restrictions that come with using a Burundi passport for international travel:
1. Visa requirements: Burundi passport holders may face visa requirements when traveling to certain countries, depending on the diplomatic relations between Burundi and the destination country.
2. Travel advisories: Due to factors such as political instability or high crime rates in certain regions, travel advisories may be issued by Burundi’s government or by other countries, limiting or advising against travel to specific destinations.
3. Expiry date: The validity of a passport must also be considered, as some countries require a passport to have at least six months’ validity remaining beyond the intended departure date from that country.
4. Specific entry requirements: Some countries may also impose additional entry requirements, such as proof of funds, travel insurance, or a return ticket, which could impact Burundi passport holders.
5. Restrictions on certain nationalities: In some cases, certain nationalities may face restrictions or limitations when using a Burundi passport for international travel, such as heightened scrutiny or additional documentation requirements.
It is essential for Burundi passport holders to be aware of these limitations and restrictions before embarking on international travel to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
13. How frequently is the Passport Index updated with new data and rankings?
The Passport Index of Burundi is typically updated on a regular basis throughout the year to reflect any changes in visa-free access or visa-on-arrival provisions for Burundian passport holders. The frequency of updates can vary depending on several factors, including changes in diplomatic relations, visa policies of various countries, and any new agreements or treaties that Burundi may sign with other nations. On average, the Passport Index is updated at least once a month to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up-to-date for travelers holding a Burundian passport.
It is worth noting that the Passport Index team closely monitors global developments in visa regulations to keep the platform current and relevant for users seeking to understand the travel privileges associated with Burundian passports. This proactive approach helps travelers make informed decisions about their travel plans and stay informed about any changes that may impact their visa requirements when visiting other countries. The regular updates ensure that the Passport Index remains a valuable resource for Burundian passport holders seeking to navigate the complexities of international travel with ease.
14. Are there any initiatives or efforts by the Burundi government to improve the global mobility of its passport?
As of now, there are limited initiatives or efforts by the Burundi government specifically aimed at improving the global mobility of its passport. The Burundi passport is currently ranked among the weakest in terms of global mobility, with its holders having limited visa-free access to countries around the world. However, there have been discussions within the government about the need to strengthen bilateral relations with other countries to potentially negotiate for visa-waiver agreements or increase visa-free access for Burundi passport holders. These discussions have yet to translate into concrete actions, but it does suggest that there is some consideration towards enhancing the passport’s global mobility in the future.
15. What are some of the general requirements for obtaining a Burundi passport?
To obtain a Burundi passport, there are several general requirements that applicants need to fulfill:
1. Proof of Burundian Citizenship: Applicants must provide evidence of their Burundian citizenship through documents such as a national ID card, birth certificate, or a certificate of nationality.
2. Completed Application Form: Applicants need to fill out the passport application form accurately and submit it along with any supporting documents required.
3. Identification Documents: A valid national identity card or another form of government-issued identification must be provided.
4. Passport Photos: Typically, two recent passport-sized photographs are required that meet specific standards in terms of size, background color, and head position.
5. Birth Certificate: In some cases, a copy of the applicant’s birth certificate may be needed to verify their personal information.
6. Payment of Fees: Applicants are usually required to pay a passport application fee, the amount of which may vary depending on the type of passport being applied for and the processing time selected.
These requirements may vary slightly depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant, such as whether they are applying for a new passport, a renewal, or a replacement. It is advisable for applicants to check with the Burundi passport authorities or the nearest Burundi embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date and detailed information on the application process.
16. Is there a significant difference in visa-free access for different types of Burundi passport holders?
Yes, there is a significant difference in visa-free access for different types of Burundi passport holders. The Burundi passport is issued in different categories, such as diplomatic, official, and ordinary passports. Diplomatic passport holders typically enjoy the highest level of visa-free access, as they are representing the government on official business and diplomatic missions. Official passport holders, who are government officials or individuals on official government business, also tend to have relatively good visa-free access. On the other hand, ordinary passport holders, which include the general population, usually have more restricted visa-free access compared to diplomatic and official passport holders. The disparity in visa-free access reflects the diplomatic relations and agreements that the Burundi government has established with other countries and international organizations.
17. How does the Burundi passport ranking compare to passports of other landlocked countries?
The Burundi passport ranking is relatively low compared to the passports of other landlocked countries. The Burundi passport is ranked 100th globally in the Henley Passport Index, which measures the travel freedom that a passport provides its holders. In comparison to other landlocked countries, such as Switzerland, Austria, and Luxembourg, which have some of the strongest passports in the world, the Burundi passport falls short in terms of visa-free access to other countries. Landlocked countries with stronger passports generally have better diplomatic relations, higher levels of economic development, and more stable political climates, all of which contribute to their citizens’ greater travel freedom. The ranking of the Burundi passport highlights the challenges that citizens of landlocked countries may face when it comes to international travel and mobility.
18. Are there any specific regions or continents where Burundi passport holders face more visa restrictions?
Burundi passport holders generally face more visa restrictions when traveling to countries in Europe, North America, and Oceania. These regions typically have stricter visa requirements compared to countries in Africa or Asia for Burundi passport holders. For example:
1. European countries like the Schengen Area nations or the United Kingdom often require Burundi passport holders to obtain a visa prior to travel.
2. North American countries such as the United States and Canada also have stringent visa regulations for Burundi passport holders.
3. Oceania countries like Australia and New Zealand typically require visas for Burundi passport holders for entry.
Overall, Burundi passport holders may face more challenges when traveling to these regions due to the higher visa restrictions in place.
19. How do political and economic factors influence the global mobility of the Burundi passport?
Political and economic factors play a significant role in influencing the global mobility of the Burundi passport.
1. Political stability: The political stability of a country impacts its relationship with other nations and the perception of its passport on the international stage. Burundi has faced political instability and conflict in recent years, which can diminish the global acceptance and trust in its passport.
2. Diplomatic relations: The strength of a country’s diplomatic relations with other nations can impact the visa requirements and travel restrictions imposed on its citizens. Burundi’s diplomatic relations with other countries can affect the visa-free access its passport holders enjoy.
3. Economic strength: The economic stability and strength of a country can also influence the global mobility of its passport. Countries with a strong economy are often perceived more favorably, leading to easier travel access for their citizens. Burundi’s economic challenges may impact the perception of its passport globally.
4. Bilateral agreements: The existence of bilateral agreements between Burundi and other countries can determine the level of access and privileges granted to its passport holders. Strong diplomatic ties and agreements can lead to increased visa-free travel options for Burundian passport holders.
In conclusion, the political and economic factors affecting Burundi directly impact the global mobility of its passport, influencing the ease with which its citizens can travel internationally.
20. What are some common challenges faced by Burundi passport holders when traveling internationally?
Burundi passport holders face several challenges when traveling internationally due to the limitations of their passport. Some common challenges include:
1. Visa requirements: Burundi passport holders often need to obtain visas before traveling to many countries around the world, which can be a time-consuming and costly process.
2. Limited visa-free access: The Burundi passport offers limited visa-free access to other countries, restricting the passport holder’s ability to travel freely.
3. Low ranking on the Passport Index: The Burundi passport is ranked low on the Passport Index, which means that passport holders may face restrictions and scrutiny when traveling to other countries.
4. Limited consular assistance: Burundi may have limited diplomatic representation in certain countries, making it difficult for passport holders to seek consular assistance in case of emergencies or issues during their travels.
Overall, Burundi passport holders may encounter challenges in terms of visa requirements, limited visa-free access, low ranking on the Passport Index, and limited consular assistance when traveling internationally.