A passport is meant to be a ticket to the world, opening doors for travel, business, and new opportunities. But what happens when a passport barely allows access to other countries?
That’s exactly the case with Afghanistan’s passport, widely considered the most useless in the world.
Why is it called the most useless passport?
The strength of a passport depends on how many countries its holder can enter without needing a visa in advance. Afghanistan’s passport ranks the lowest because it only allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to just 28 destinations.
In contrast, the world’s strongest passport, held by Singapore, grants access to 195 countries. This massive gap means Afghan passport holders struggle to travel freely, limiting their opportunities for work, study, and tourism.
Why is it so weak?
Several reasons contribute to Afghanistan’s passport being ranked so low:
- Global Restrictions – Many countries do not allow Afghan citizens to enter without a visa due to security concerns.
- Political Instability – Ongoing conflict and instability in Afghanistan have made other nations cautious about admitting Afghan travelers.
- Lack of Diplomatic Ties – Afghanistan has weak international relationships, which means fewer agreements for visa-free travel.
How much does It cost to live in Afghan?
Despite its limited travel options, getting an Afghan passport is not cheap. The cost varies depending on where it is issued:
- Inside Afghanistan: A 5-year passport costs about $100, while a 10-year passport costs around $200.
- Outside Afghanistan: Fees may be higher at embassies or consulates abroad.
Do Nigerians live in Afghanistan?
Surprisingly, no Nigerian officially resides in Afghanistan. In 2021, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) confirmed that they had no records of any Nigerians living there. The former President of Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO) Singapore also stated that no registered Nigerians were in Afghanistan at the time.
While there may be a few unregistered individuals, Afghanistan is not a place where Nigerians typically settle due to security concerns and lack of opportunities.