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10 Countries with Lowest Immigrant Populations
By Kabir Abdulsalam
Immigration patterns vary globally, with some countries experiencing high numbers of immigrants while others remain relatively homogeneous.
The countries on this list share common themes of geographic isolation, restrictive immigration policies, or socio-economic challenges. While immigration rates are low, each country has its unique cultural and environmental factors that contribute to this status. If you’re considering moving to any of these nations, understanding their policies and culture is crucial!
Below is a list of 19 countries with the lowest immigrant populations, based on recent data from global migration studies and census reports. These nations often have restrictive immigration policies, remote locations, or unique cultural factors that contribute to their limited immigrant numbers.
1. North Korea
Immigrant Percentage: Near 0%
Reason: North Korea’s closed borders and strict government policies severely limit foreign entry. Most foreigners in the country are diplomats or humanitarian workers.
2. Cuba
Immigrant Percentage: Less than 0.1%
Reason: A combination of political isolation and restrictive entry policies makes Cuba one of the least immigrant-populated countries.
3. Bhutan
Immigrant Percentage: 0.4%
Reason: Bhutan’s policy of “Gross National Happiness” emphasizes cultural preservation, limiting immigration and naturalization.
4. Lesotho
Immigrant Percentage: 1.5%
Reason: This landlocked country within South Africa has high emigration rates, with more people leaving than entering.
5. Comoros
Immigrant Percentage: 1.6%
Reason: The Comoros islands’ geographical isolation and lack of economic opportunities deter immigration.
6. Timor-Leste
Immigrant Percentage: 1.7%
Reason: As a relatively new nation, political instability and limited economic opportunities result in low immigration rates.
7. Samoa
Immigrant Percentage: 1.9%
Reason: Remote island location and strict immigration policies contribute to Samoa’s low immigrant population.
8. Vanuatu
Immigrant Percentage: 2%
Reason: Its remote location in the Pacific Ocean makes it less accessible to immigrants.
9. Malawi
Immigrant Percentage: 2.3%
Reason: High poverty rates and limited economic opportunities make Malawi less attractive to immigrants.
10. Solomon Islands
Immigrant Percentage: 2.4%
Reason: Geographic isolation and lack of urbanization result in limited immigration.
11. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Immigrant Percentage: 2.5%
Reason: Small size and lack of diversified economic sectors reduce immigrant interest.
12. Burundi
Immigrant Percentage: 2.6%
Reason: Political instability and economic struggles discourage immigration.
13. Madagascar
Immigrant Percentage: 2.8%
Reason: Despite its biodiversity, Madagascar’s economic challenges deter foreign settlement.
14. Papua New Guinea
Immigrant Percentage: 3%
Reason: Its rugged terrain and cultural isolation discourage immigration.
15. Afghanistan
Immigrant Percentage: 3.2%
Reason: Decades of conflict and political instability make Afghanistan an unattractive destination for immigrants.
16. Yemen
Immigrant Percentage: 3.4%
Reason: Ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises discourage immigration to Yemen.
17. Tonga
Immigrant Percentage: 3.5%
Reason: This small Pacific nation has limited economic opportunities and strict immigration rules.
18. Kiribati
Immigrant Percentage: 3.7%
Reason: As one of the most remote countries in the world, its geographic isolation limits immigration.
19. São Tomé and Príncipe
Immigrant Percentage: 3.9%
Reason: Small population size and limited economic opportunities make this African island nation less appealing for immigrants.
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