General

General information on immigrating to friendly countries

12/27/20252 min read

desk globe on table
desk globe on table

A list of general resources for LGBT+ refugees can be found at https://mygwork.com/news/organisations-supporting-lgbt-refugees-and-asylum-seekers

The UNHCR is a refugee agency that can also provide assistance
https://www.unhcr.org/uk/what-we-do/how-we-work/safeguarding-individuals/lgbtiq-persons/sogiesc-and-working-lgbtiq-persons

This page is not meant to encourage/discourage you from immigrating (as a refugee or by other means, depending on your needs). It is merely a hub of options. It also cannot include all countries due to my own limitations. There are countries not included here that may be very safe for you (that the linked organizations may be able to direct you to). Countries that are listed may have areas that are less safe, and local agencies in those countries may be able to help you navigate to the best place to live (as well as jobs, language/cultural needs, cost of living, etc.). This is meant as a starting point, not a comprehensive guide. If you have the ability to speak to someone who is knowledgeable in the area of global LGBT+ rights or immigration laws, and their advice conflicts with this site, please take their advice.

You can look up specific countries and their rating for LGBT+ safety on:
https://www.statista.com/chart/25159/world-map-best-countries-for-lgbt-travelers/?srsltid=AfmBOop4zATZQfQg2kjhH3i9FTYcVso-VAEWf2WfLLwTRrMgpf3s6Lgt

You can also use Equaldex to get a sense of LGBT+ rights in different countries: https://www.equaldex.com/


While I try to make sure all information is accurate and up to date, there is always a chance it's not. So please confirm that whoever is talking to you is who they say they are, that the political situation/Visa requirements have not changed, etc., before paying anyone money, giving out personal information, meeting with anyone in person, or making major life decisions.

Immigration may be very complex and frustrating. It may be worthwhile reaching out to official government sources to see what sort of advocacy and support you may be entitled to in that country. Immigration is also often very expensive (and you should expect to take a while to find employment after relocating, unless you immigrate under a work Visa). It may be worth reaching out to official LGBT+ organizations in the country you are considering moving to in order to see what sort of support/resources they may have, as well as saving money as much as you can.

Finally, immigration takes a lot of time. If your safety is imminently at risk, you may want to consider making a plan for what to do in the interim, including exploring if there is an alternate country that you can get temporary asylum in (for example, at the time of writing this, Canada allows approved visitors to stay for up to 6 months).

This site was published in January 2025.