A passport is widely recognized as the most important travel document, enabling people to move freely across international borders while confirming their identity and nationality.
It is issued by governments through a formal application process, which typically involves meeting certain requirements and paying a fee.
The price of obtaining a passport, however, is far from uniform. It varies widely from one country to another, influenced by government policies, administrative costs, and economic conditions.
In some countries, passports are affordable and quickly processed, while in others they are expensive and time-consuming, creating unequal access to global travel.
Here are the countries where passports are the most expensive in 2025.
Australia
Australia tops the list, with a passport costing $412 for 10 years, averaging $41.20 per year. Despite its high price, its strength has slightly declined, ranking equal-seventh globally with visa-free access to 185 countries. This means Australians pay a staggering $2.23 per accessible destination, the highest rate in the world.
Mexico
Mexican citizens pay $335.95 for a decade-long passport, or $33.59 per year. While it allows travel to over 160 destinations, its steep cost makes it one of the least efficient passports in terms of cost-to-power ratio.
United States
The U.S. passport is priced at $251.21, or $25.12 per year. Americans enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 185 countries, making it more cost-effective per destination compared to Australia or Mexico.
New Zealand
New Zealand charges $225.62, translating to $22.56 per year. Despite being cheaper than Australia’s, the Kiwi passport grants access to 186 countries — one more than Australia — offering better value for money.
Italy
An Italian passport costs $206.10 for 10 years, or $20.61 annually. With nearly 190 visa-free destinations, Italy combines high global mobility with strong value, ranking among the best in the world.
Read Also: APM faults Adeleke’s massive infrastructural drive to Ede community
Austria
Austria follows closely at $198.99, or $19.90 per year. Austrian citizens enjoy excellent international access, reflecting the strength of EU passports.
United Kingdom
The U.K. charges $193.78 for a 10-year passport, $19.38 per year. Granting entry to over 190 destinations, it is far more cost-effective than Australia’s despite the lower price.
Canada
Canada’s passport costs $177.61, averaging $17.76 per year. With access to over 185 countries, it ranks among the world’s strongest passports.
France
In France, a passport costs $152.67 for 10 years, or $15.27 annually. French citizens enjoy nearly 190 visa-free destinations, making it both affordable and powerful.
Fiji
Fiji rounds out the top 10, with a passport priced at $142.94 for 10 years. While it does not match the strength of European or North American passports, its relatively high cost places it among the most expensive globally.
Read more on Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics
