Immigration rules are tightening worldwide, and some nations have become extremely difficult for foreigners to move into. High living costs, strict government regulations, and limited visa opportunities make relocation challenging. Countries once seen as accessible now impose stricter controls to protect their economies and preserve resources for citizens. From rising application denials to increasing financial requirements, these policies make long-term settlement nearly impossible for many. According to data from the United Nations and government immigration reports, these seven countries stand out as the hardest to relocate to.
1. Japan
Japan has long been known for its cultural richness, but settling here is highly difficult due to strict residency requirements and limited permanent visa opportunities. Foreigners often face language barriers and tough employment restrictions that reduce long-term stability. Even highly skilled workers must navigate years of temporary visas before qualifying for permanent residence. The Japanese government’s focus on preserving cultural identity and limiting immigration makes integration harder compared to other developed countries. Data from the Ministry of Justice in Japan highlights the low percentage of foreigners granted long-term residency each year, reinforcing its exclusivity.
2. Switzerland
Switzerland is famous for its beauty and high standard of living, yet moving there is highly restricted for non-European Union nationals. The country enforces strict quotas on foreign workers and requires high levels of financial proof before granting residency. Long-term visas are extremely difficult to secure unless tied to specialized employment or family reunification. Even EU citizens face limitations with permits that must be renewed regularly. Reports from the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration show that the number of permanent residence approvals for outsiders remains very low compared to demand.
3. Australia
Australia is a dream destination for many, but its immigration policies have grown increasingly selective. Points-based systems prioritize highly skilled workers, leaving most applicants unsuccessful. In recent years, stricter health checks, income requirements, and occupation lists have made eligibility harder to achieve. Long waiting periods for permanent residency and reduced visa quotas add to the challenge. According to Australia’s Department of Home Affairs, acceptance rates for general skilled migration have dropped, highlighting the country’s preference for limited, targeted immigration that heavily filters applicants based on economic contribution and professional background.
4. Canada
The truth is that, despite Canada’s reputation as an immigration-friendly country, increased demand has led to the implementation of stricter restrictions. Application backlogs, increasing financial requirements, and reduced acceptance rates are making it difficult for new arrivals. Programs such as Express Entry are competitive, with only top-ranked candidates gaining approval. Additionally, recent housing shortages have led to public debate over reducing immigration levels. Statistics Canada reports show that while immigration targets remain high, stricter filters and rising competition mean many qualified applicants never make it through the system successfully.
5. United States
The United States remains a highly desired destination, but securing permanent residency has become harder than ever. Complex visa categories, lengthy application backlogs, and increasing rejection rates make the process stressful. Green card lotteries are highly competitive, with millions applying for limited spots. Additionally, family-based visas face long waiting times, sometimes extending over a decade. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, demand continues to outpace annual quotas significantly. This combination of bureaucracy and limited approvals makes moving to the United States nearly impossible for many foreign nationals seeking long-term opportunities.
6. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has restructured its immigration policies significantly after Brexit, making it harder for non-citizens to move and settle. Points-based systems now prioritize specific professions and high-income workers, leaving fewer pathways for general migration. Students and temporary workers often struggle to transition into permanent residency. Strict financial requirements and healthcare surcharges add further obstacles. Data from the UK Home Office shows a consistent drop in successful applications for permanent settlement among non-EU migrants, signaling that relocation has become increasingly restricted and tightly controlled compared to earlier decades of more flexible entry policies.
7. New Zealand
New Zealand is admired for its scenic landscapes and quality of life, but immigration has grown significantly restricted. The country has reduced visa categories, raised income thresholds, and implemented stricter health requirements. Residency applications now face long waiting periods and lower approval rates. Even skilled workers often remain on temporary visas for years before qualifying for permanent status. According to Immigration New Zealand, the tightening of policies reflects concerns about housing shortages, job opportunities for citizens, and sustainable population growth, making relocation almost impossible for many despite the country’s global appeal.
