Moving to another country can be a dream for many people seeking better opportunities, safety, or a different lifestyle. But not every country makes it easy for outsiders to start a new life. Some nations have extremely strict immigration laws, long waiting periods, and complicated paperwork that make the process difficult even for qualified applicants. These rules are often made to protect local jobs, control population growth, or maintain national security.

In this article, let’s explore some of the toughest countries to immigrate to and understand what makes their immigration laws so strict.

1. Japan

Japan is known for its advanced technology, clean cities, and unique culture. However, it’s also one of the hardest countries to immigrate to.

The main reason is Japan’s strict immigration policy and preference for maintaining a homogenous society. The country’s government rarely offers permanent residency or citizenship to foreigners unless they’ve lived in Japan for many years and have strong contributions to society or the economy.

Applicants must also show good behavior, stable income, and proof of paying taxes regularly. Learning Japanese is essential, as most official work, forms, and communication are in the local language.

Japan welcomes foreign workers for short-term employment in industries like construction or care work, but very few get long-term settlement rights.

2. Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with high living standards, but it’s also very selective when it comes to who can live there.

The country gives preference to skilled professionals from the European Union. Non-EU citizens, including those from countries like India, often face tough approval processes.
Immigrants must secure a job before arriving, and even after living there for several years, getting permanent residency or citizenship is difficult.
The government also considers factors like financial stability, cultural integration, and contribution to the local economy.

Switzerland’s strict rules mainly exist to protect its economy and limit the number of foreign workers competing for local jobs.

3. United States

The United States is a popular destination for people all over the world, but it’s also one of the hardest countries to immigrate to legally.

While the country offers several visa categories like work visas, student visas, and family-sponsored visas each comes with long waiting times and complex requirements.

The Green Card lottery gives only a small number of people permanent residency each year. Family-based immigration can take over a decade for certain countries.

The U.S. has tightened its immigration policies over the years due to national security concerns, illegal immigration, and the need to balance job markets. Getting citizenship is even harder: it requires permanent residence for at least five years, a clean record, and passing an English and civics test.

4. Australia

Australia is a dream destination for many because of its high-quality lifestyle and beautiful environment. But getting a visa isn’t easy.

The country’s immigration system is based on a points test that considers your age, education, work experience, and English skills. Only those who meet the required points get a chance to apply for permanent residence.

There are also medical and character tests. Australia closely monitors applicants’ health and background to prevent burdening its healthcare system or risking public safety.

The rules have become stricter in recent years as the country tries to control population growth and protect local jobs.

5. North Korea

North Korea is arguably the hardest country in the world to immigrate to. In fact, immigration to this country is almost impossible.

The government keeps tight control over its borders and rarely allows foreigners to live or work there permanently. Most visitors enter only for guided tours, and they are strictly monitored by officials.

Foreigners are not allowed to freely move around, work, or even interact with locals without permission. The country’s policies are built around isolation and maintaining government control, making it nearly impossible for outsiders to settle there.

6. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia allows many foreigners to work there but very few to settle permanently.
The country’s immigration system is based on the “kafala” or sponsorship system, where a local employer sponsors a foreign worker. Once the employment contract ends, the worker must leave the country unless another sponsor is found.

Permanent residency or citizenship is almost never given to non-Saudi nationals. Even those who have lived there for decades find it difficult to get long-term rights.

These strict laws are influenced by cultural, religious, and national identity factors that the government wants to protect.

Additionally, consider to connect with check countries with strictest immigration laws to know more

7. Bhutan

Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom, is famous for its “Gross National Happiness” policy. However, it’s also one of the most closed-off nations in the world when it comes to immigration.
Foreigners are rarely allowed to live there permanently. Even getting a work visa is limited to specific projects or government-approved programs.

The Bhutanese government has a strong desire to protect its culture, traditions, and environment from outside influence. Tourism is tightly controlled with daily fees to prevent overcrowding and over-commercialization.

Because of this, Bhutan remains peaceful and beautiful but nearly impossible to immigrate to.

8. Canada

Canada may seem welcoming, but its immigration process is quite detailed and demanding.
Applicants need to meet strict requirements based on age, education, work experience, and English or French language ability. The process also involves health exams, background checks, and financial proof.

Although Canada accepts many skilled immigrants each year, competition is tough. Points-based programs like Express Entry only select the top candidates.The government also adjusts its immigration targets every year depending on job market needs and economic conditions.

9. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE, home to cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, attracts millions of workers from around the world. However, most people only get temporary residence tied to their employment. There is no clear path to citizenship for most foreigners. Once their job contract ends, they must leave the country unless they find new employment.

These laws are designed to maintain control over the population and preserve national identity. Despite being modern and global in nature, UAE’s strict visa system ensures that permanent residency remains rare.

10. China

China has a fast-growing economy and many job opportunities, but getting long-term residency or citizenship is not easy.

The visa process is often complicated, and long-term visas require strong justification, such as investment, marriage to a Chinese citizen, or high-level skills in science or technology.

Even after years of living in China, many foreigners only hold work permits renewed annually. Citizenship is almost impossible to get, as China doesn’t allow dual nationality and grants citizenship in very rare cases.

Why Are Some Countries So Strict?

There are several reasons why certain countries make immigration tough:

• National Security: Governments want to protect their citizens and prevent illegal immigration or terrorism.
• Job Protection: Strict laws ensure that local citizens get priority for jobs and economic benefits.
• Cultural Preservation: Some nations want to maintain their traditions, language, and identity.
• Economic Control: Countries with small populations or limited resources often restrict immigration to prevent overpopulation.
• Political Reasons: In a few places, strict immigration laws are used to control the influence of foreign residents.

Conclusion

Every country has the right to decide how open or closed it wants to be to outsiders. While some nations welcome new talent, others prefer to protect their existing way of life and economy.

For people planning to move abroad, understanding these rules early can save time, effort, and disappointment. It’s always best to research visa policies carefully, prepare all documents, and apply through proper channels.

Immigration may be challenging, but with patience, the right skills, and legal support, finding a new home in another country is always possible.