7 Industrialized Countries to Safely Seek Asylum

When you need asylum, you need to get somewhere safe as quickly as possible. If you’re running inEurope, you have plenty of options, but there are places all around the globe that can give you a new home and chance to start over. Some of the best options don’t just offer asylum, they also have programs in place to help support those whose immigration is sudden and unexpected. Any one of the following countries has programs in place to help you get settled in your new home, and CNN has provided a quick overview of the most welcoming.

Netherlands

Not only is this country widely regarded as one of the best in the world to call home, it is also very welcoming to asylum-seekers. TheNetherlandsaccepts 2.7 people for asylum per capita.

Ireland

Putting theUKto shame,Irelandaccepts 2.06 people for asylum per capita. In addition, it has very low crime and is a safe place to live.

Norway

If you are okay with a more rural lifestyle and higher costs of living,Norwaymight be an ideal choice. Not only do they welcome thousands of immigrants each year, they also have incredible social programs and very low unemployment.

Sweden

Sweden,Norway’s neighbor, does not accept quite as many people each year, but they do offer many of the same benefits. Quality health care, a wonderful educational system and a stable economy are just a few of the benefits of askingSwedenfor asylum.

Austria

At a fraction of the size of countries likeNorway, it might shock you to find out that this country is near the top of the list (just behind theNetherlands) for per capita asylum offers.

Canada

If an ocean away seems like the right distance for your safety,Canadacan and does offer asylum to nearly one person per capita.

United States

While theUnited Stateswelcomes more asylum-seekers thanCanada, both countries fall well below some of the most accepting options inEurope. What they can offer instead is a relatively safe harbor with a history of almost no armed conflict at home.

Every country has different regulations and application processes in place for those asking for asylum. Be sure to check on the requirements and different types of asylum offered before you start the immigration process.