Travel freedom is changing in a world transformed by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Henley & Partners.
«Global immobility is no longer solely the plight of citizens of less advanced countries,» the residence and citizenship planning specialist said about its «Global Mobility Report 2021.»
Due to pandemic-related travel constraints, travelers from the U.K. and U.S. currently face major restrictions from over 105 countries, with U.S. passport holders able to travel to fewer than 75 destinations, while U.K. passport holders currently have access to fewer than 70, Christian Kaelin, Henley & Partners chairman, noted.
Japan Still Top
Without taking temporary restrictions into account, a Japanese passport remains the most desirable, allowing holders access to access 191 destinations visa-free. Singapore sits in second position, with access to 190 destinations, and South Korea is third alongside Germany, with both having a visa-free/visa-on-arrival score of 189.
While the index's top spots have traditionally been held by EU countries, the U.K. or U.S., experts suggest the APAC region's position of strength will continue as it includes the first countries to begin the process of pandemic recovery, especially with the U.S. and U.K. still facing significant challenges related to the virus, the report said.
Global Mobility Stalled
Travel freedom is not only the result of a lack of social freedom or poor economic development but also a failure of risk management, health readiness, and monitoring and detection, the report said.
However, Henley said the IATA's Travel Pass initiative, a mobile application that enables travelers to store and manage their verified certifications for COVID-19 tests or vaccines that is scheduled for launch in the first quarter of 2021, will help contribute to restoring global mobility.
Investment Migration Appeal
The instability prompted by COVID-19 is driving demand for access to stability, safety, and access to quality education and healthcare.
«Alternative citizenship and residency are now a standard consideration for international families and entrepreneurs who are looking to hedge volatility and create long-term value through enhanced global mobility,» Juerg Steffen, Henley & Partners CEO, said.
