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The study which analyzed updated 2026 passport fees from government sources alongside global mobility rankings, found that the Malaysian passport offers strong travel freedom at relatively low cost.
Malaysia's passport has jumped three places to rank sixth most powerful globally in the latest Henley Passport Index, marking its highest position in the 20-year history of the index.
Malaysian citizens enjoy visa-free access to 183 out of 227 countries and territories.
In Southeast Asia, Malaysia's passport is the second most powerful after Singapore's, which is also the world's most powerful.
Malaysian passports are currently valid for five years from the date of issuance and contain 48 pages.
Authorities advise renewing passports at least six months before expiration, although the government is considering extending the validity period to 10 years, according to Malaysia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Compare the Market's research listed the Brazilian passport as the cheapest in the world, costing R$180 (US$34.32).
The Indian passport ranked second cheapest, followed by those from the United Arab Emirates, Spain and South Africa.
At the other end, the Australian passport is the most expensive in the world, with its citizens paying $302 to obtain the international travel document, following a price increase in January 2026.
