Which countries provide Asylum? Complete guide

ISLAMABAD: Every year, millions of Pakistanis and other people flee from their countries for several reasons including war, political instability, economic crises, and persecution across the globe in search of protection and safer futures.

According to the latest data, the United Kingdom is one of largest and safest country for Pakistanis to take asylum, however after introducing new rules and reducing the time period of asylum, the UK government has sparked controversy all around the world, leaving millions of Pakistani citizens at stake.

In the 12 months ending in June 2025, there were approximately 11,048asylum claims made by Pakistani nationals in the UK, making Pakistan the leading country of origin for asylum seekers.

Canada

Many countries retain robust and well-organized systems for asylum, while Canada is considered one of the most hospitable countries on account of its humanitarian policies, which provide support to refugees in health, education, and employment opportunities.

Germany

Germany remains Europe’s single biggest recipient of asylum seekers, with many social safety nets and strong legal support in place, and Sweden continues its long history of adherence to human rights as it shelters many from conflict regions.

While an exact current number is not available, there has been a recent downward trend in applications, with about 19,000 Pakistani asylum seekers applying in EU+ in October 2024.

During a peak period between October 2023 and October 2024, around 28,000 Pakistanis applied for protection in the EU+, with a majority of these requests lodged in countries like Italy, France, Greece, and Germany. 

United States

The United States also receives thousands of asylum applications from individuals who seek refuge due to political, religious, or social persecution.

According to the reports, more than 10,000 Pakistani asylum seekers have submitted applications to the US in the two years leading up to June 2025. Another report from 2024 states that 1,427 people had fled to the US from Pakistan, with 112 positive asylum decisions made. 

Australia

Australia, though strict in its policies, offers sound legal protections for those who apply through official channels. The exact number of Pakistani asylum seekers in Australia is not publicly available, but there were 120,440 Pakistani-born people in Australia as of June 2023, according to the Department of Home Affairs.

Other notable destinations

Other destinations include France, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland, which, too, are considered major players in protection for the global refugee population.

Experts say increasing global displacement will continue to put pressure on these countries and demands increased international cooperation to address growing humanitarian challenges.