Top 10 Neutral Countries in 2025

This review describes for each country the basis of its neutral status (historical and legal context), obligations of citizens (such as the presence or absence of military conscription), and types of legal status in safe countries – available ways to stay there long-term. In this article, we explain which types of residence permits (residency), investment programs, asylum, or other immigration pathways exist. The material will help readers choose which safe country to move to in 2025–2026, avoid mistakes during relocation, and understand the available legal paths to emigration.

This is an up-to-date list of neutral countries (non-aligned states, countries that will not go to war) in 2025 where one can legally emigrate.

Top 10 Neutral Countries for Safe Relocation in 2025

Below are ten states that maintain military neutrality and are not part of military alliances. These non-aligned countries for relocation are considered maximally removed from global conflicts and militarization. For each country, we will consider its neutral status and main immigration programs.

Switzerland, Neutrality since 1815

Neutrality and obligations. Switzerland is the classic example of permanent neutrality, which the country has observed for more than two centuries. Switzerland’s status as a neutral state was recognized at the Congress of Vienna in 1815, and since then the country has not participated in world wars. Constitutionally, Switzerland’s neutrality is not rigidly codified, but it is a key instrument of foreign policy: Switzerland does not join military alliances and does not host foreign bases on its territory. Instead, the country adheres to a policy of armed neutrality – maintaining capable forces for defense but not engaging in conflicts abroad. According to the law on neutrality, Switzerland is not entitled to participate in wars between other states.

Swiss citizens have certain military obligations: the country has compulsory military service for men. Every Swiss male from age 18 must serve in the army or perform alternative civilian service. Women may serve voluntarily. The service period usually consists of 18 weeks of basic training, after which conscripts remain in the reserve until the age of 30, periodically attending training. Absence from training results in a special military tax. Through this system, Switzerland maintains its defense capability while staying outside military blocs.

Switzerland remains one of the most attractive neutral countries for relocation, although it imposes high requirements on immigrants.

Immigration and legal status in Switzerland. Switzerland offers a high quality of life, political and economic stability, which attracts wealthy foreigners. However, immigration laws are quite strict, especially for non-EU citizens. Legal ways to move to Switzerland include:

• Labor migration. Foreign specialists may obtain a work visa (B-category permit) if they have an invitation from a Swiss employer. Quotas for such permits are limited, and priority is given to EU nationals.
• Business and investment. There is no direct citizenship-by-investment program in Switzerland, but there is a residency program for financially independent individuals. Non-EU foreigners who do not plan to work in Switzerland may obtain residency status by paying an agreed annual tax (typically from 250,000 Swiss francs per year depending on the canton). Essentially, this is a residence permit through a tax agreement, available to wealthy investors and retirees – they commit to paying a fixed tax amount in exchange for the right to reside in the country.
• Real estate purchase. The purchase of real estate in Switzerland by foreigners is restricted by the Lex Koller law and does not in itself grant residency. Only with a valid residence permit can a foreigner buy property (and even then with limitations).
• Study and research. Foreign students admitted to Swiss universities receive a temporary residence permit for the duration of their studies. After graduation, there is an opportunity to stay to look for work, and in case of employment – to change status to a work permit.
• Asylum. Switzerland participates in international refugee agreements and grants asylum to persons who can prove persecution in their homeland. Each year the Confederation accepts a certain number of refugees under humanitarian programs. However, the asylum procedure is strict: applicants must convincingly demonstrate threats to their life on political, religious, or other grounds.

Switzerland remains one of the most attractive neutral countries for relocation, although it imposes high requirements on immigrants. Holders of Swiss residence permits value the country’s stability, political neutrality, and the legal protection of their investments. By meeting all conditions of residence and integration, one may apply for citizenship in 10–12 years, gaining access to one of the strongest passports in the world.

Austria, Permanent Neutrality

Neutrality and obligations. Austria is one of the few EU countries that has declared permanent neutrality at the legislative level. After World War II, Austria enshrined its non-aligned status in the Constitutional Law of 1955. This means that the Republic of Austria pledged not to join military alliances and not to allow foreign military bases on its territory. This neutrality is permanent – in both peacetime and wartime – and can only be revoked if the constitution is amended by a parliamentary majority. Experts note that Austrian neutrality is one of the most firmly established in Europe. Austria is not part of NATO and officially maintains military neutrality, although it participates in UN missions and cooperates with the EU within the framework of common security policy.

Austrian citizens perform compulsory military service. The country has universal conscription for men starting at 17–18 years of age. The term of compulsory service in the Austrian army is 6 months, and alternative civilian service lasts 9 months. Women may enlist voluntarily. Interestingly, in 2013 Austrians voted in a referendum to preserve conscription, considering it important for the neutrality and defense capability of the country. Austria does not take part in combat operations abroad, limiting itself to humanitarian and peacekeeping missions. Thus, the balance is preserved: a neutral state with small armed forces, performing mainly defensive functions.

Immigration to Austria. Austria is a developed European country with a high standard of living, making it attractive for immigrants. At the same time, immigration policy is selective: priority is given to qualified specialists and investors who can benefit the economy. Legal ways to stay in Austria include:

• Red-White-Red Card Program (Rot-Weiß-Rot Karte). This is a point-based immigration system for qualified specialists from third countries. Candidates receive points for education, work experience, age, language skills, etc. If enough points are scored, a residence and work permit is issued for 24 months. There are several categories of the RWR card, including Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations, Highly Qualified Workers, Start-up Entrepreneurs, and others. The holder of an RWR card is tied to a specific employer for the first 2 years, after which they may obtain an RWR-Plus with free access to the labor market. This program is the main pathway for labor immigration of professionals.
• EU Blue Card. For highly skilled professionals with higher education and an employment contract with a salary above a set threshold. The Blue Card grants the right to live and work in Austria, and after 21 months, if integration conditions are met, one can obtain a more stable status (residency).
• Study and research. Austria welcomes international students to its universities. During studies, a temporary residence permit (Studierender category) is issued. After graduation, there is a grace period (12 months) to find employment – if successful, the graduate can transition to an RWR card without quota restrictions. Austrian research institutes may also host foreign researchers under the Forscher visa, which grants temporary residency for the duration of research.
• Investments and business. There is no direct citizenship-by-investment program in Austria; however, exceptionally valuable investors may qualify for Austrian citizenship through naturalization by a special decision of the government. In practice, this requires investments of several million euros and a significant economic contribution – the process is non-transparent and rare. A more realistic path is a residence permit for financially independent persons. Wealthy foreigners (often retirees) can apply for residency without the right to work by proving sufficient income/savings and renting accommodation in Austria. However, such permits have annual quotas by federal states (a few hundred for the entire country) and require basic knowledge of German.
• Asylum and humanitarian visas. Austria participates in the EU refugee distribution program and grants asylum to persecuted individuals. In 2015–2016, the country accepted tens of thousands of refugees from the Middle East. In recent years, rules have tightened, but for religious and political refugees the doors remain open – it is necessary to personally apply for asylum at the Austrian border or inside the country. The decision is made by the Federal Office for Immigration and Asylum.

Immigration to neutral Austria is attractive due to its combination of safety and European quality of life. After 5 years of legal continuous residence, a foreigner may obtain a long-term status (Permanent Residency – Daueraufenthalt) in Austria, and after 10 years – apply for citizenship. It should be noted that Austria usually requires renunciation of previous citizenship.

It is impossible to fully predict geopolitics, but neutral states appear to be the most likely countries that will not be drawn into war after 2025.

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Ireland

Neutrality and obligations. Ireland has pursued a policy of military neutrality since gaining full independence in 1949. Officially, Ireland does not join military alliances (including NATO) and participates in armed conflicts only on the basis of a UN mandate (for example, in peacekeeping missions). This status is often referred to as armed neutrality. Ireland has small defense forces and does not allow foreign troops on its soil without parliamentary approval. The Constitution does not contain a direct article on neutrality, but it is supported by the so-called “triple lock” – for any deployment of Irish forces abroad, three approvals are required: a government decision, parliamentary approval, and a UN mandate. As a result, Ireland remained outside bloc confrontation during the Cold War and in 2022, amid the war in Ukraine, reaffirmed that it does not intend to join NATO. Ireland has no compulsory military service – its defense forces are fully volunteer-based, and defense spending remains among the lowest in Europe.

In peacetime, this allows resources to be directed toward social needs. Ireland is known for its active participation in UN operations – thousands of Irish peacekeepers have served in Lebanon, Africa, and other regions under the UN flag, remaining neutral mediators. This positioning makes Ireland attractive to those seeking life in a non-militarized country with a friendly attitude toward diverse cultures.

Immigration to Ireland. Ireland is a rapidly developing economy (nicknamed the Celtic Tiger) and a European tech hub. The country attracts expats from IT, finance, medicine, and other fields. Main legal immigration pathways to Ireland include:

• Work (General Employment Permit and Critical Skills Permit). Ireland readily accepts qualified workers. The Critical Skills Employment Permit is issued to specialists in high-demand professions (e.g., IT engineers, doctors) with an annual salary from €32,000, or to other professions with a salary from €64,000. This type of permit exempts the employer from a labor market test and leads to eligibility for permanent residence after 5 years. The General Employment Permit is for other categories of workers and requires proof that the vacancy cannot be filled by an EU citizen. Permit holders can bring their families (subject to income requirements) and, after 5 years, apply for long-term status.
• Business and startups. The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme allows residency for founders of innovative startups with funding of at least €50,000. Additionally, foreign entrepreneurs may open a business and obtain a business visa by proving significant investments and job creation in Ireland. A major advantage is the presence of large multinational companies (Google, Apple, etc.) in Ireland, which sponsor the relocation of specialists.
• Study. Foreign students enrolled in accredited Irish universities receive a student Stamp 2, which allows part-time work up to 20 hours per week. After graduation, bachelor’s degree holders may stay for 1 year under the Third Level Graduate Scheme (2 years for master’s degree holders) with the right to work. Upon securing permanent employment, they can transition to the above-mentioned work permits and eventually qualify for long-term residence.
• Financially independent persons (Stamp 0). Wealthy foreigners with sufficient personal funds may apply for temporary residency without the right to work. Typically, proof of an income of at least €50,000 per year per person and additional savings is required. Stamp 0 is issued for 1–2 years with the possibility of renewal but does not directly lead to permanent residence or citizenship.
• Asylum and humanitarian relocation programs. Ireland accepts refugees in accordance with EU regulations. Individuals who prove persecution in their home country may obtain refugee or subsidiary protection status and later the right to family reunification. In particular, Ireland has granted asylum to persecuted religious minorities and LGBT activists from various countries.

Ireland is renowned for its welcoming attitude toward immigrants – more than 17% of the population was born abroad. Citizenship may be obtained through 5 years of residence under naturalization (counting years with long-term stay rights). Ireland permits dual citizenship, which is convenient for investors.

Malta

Neutrality and obligations. Malta is a tiny island state in the Mediterranean with a unique legal neutrality status. In 1980, a few years after independence from British rule, Malta declared a policy of neutrality, and in 1987 enshrined it in the Constitution. According to the Constitution, Malta cannot join a military-political bloc (such as NATO) or allow the establishment of foreign bases without constitutional amendment. Thus, even after joining the EU in 2004, Malta maintained a non-aligned military status. Malta’s defense forces are extremely small (around 2,000 personnel) and are volunteer-based. There is no conscription. The main functions of the military are patrolling territorial waters, search-and-rescue operations, and participation in peacekeeping missions.

How to stay in Malta? Despite its small size, Malta is fairly open to immigrants and especially investors. As a neutral and safe country, Malta attracts those who want to live in a Mediterranean climate while also having access to the EU market. Legal immigration opportunities include:

• Residence by investment. A popular program that allows applicants to obtain permanent residence in Malta in exchange for real estate investments worth at least €300,000 (or rental from €10,000 per year), a one-time non-refundable contribution of €28,000–€58,000 to a state fund, and a charitable donation of €2,000. The applicant must also show assets of at least €500,000, of which €150,000 in financial assets. Meeting these requirements and passing strict due diligence grants immediate permanent residence for the applicant and family.
• Citizenship by contribution. Malta offers the possibility of obtaining citizenship by naturalization for exceptional services, effectively a citizenship-by-investment scheme. The applicant must first reside 1–3 years as a resident, make a non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund (typically €600,000 – €750,000), purchase or rent real estate, and make a charitable donation. After vetting and government approval, citizenship is granted.
• Work and business. Foreign specialists can obtain a Maltese work residence permit if they have a contract from a Maltese employer. There is high demand for specialists in the gaming industry, IT, and finance. The usual procedure is that the employer applies for a Single Permit on your behalf, and after approval you arrive with a work visa.
• Digital Nomad Visa (Malta Digital Nomad Visa). In 2021, Malta launched a one-year visa for remote workers who are non-EU citizens. The requirement is an income of at least €2,700 per month from work outside Malta. The visa allows residence in Malta for up to 1 year (renewable up to 3 years) without the right to work for local companies.
• Asylum. As an EU member, Malta is obliged to consider asylum applications. In practice, the country faces pressure from irregular migration across the Mediterranean, so conditions for asylum seekers are not always ideal. Nevertheless, persecuted persons (including for religious reasons) have the right to apply for asylum upon arrival in Malta.

Malta is a neutral yet cosmopolitan country where English is the second official language. This facilitates immigrant integration. After 5 years of residence (and with knowledge of Maltese or English), one may apply for long-term EU resident status, and after 6–7 years, for citizenship.

Costa Rica

Neutrality and obligations. Costa Rica is a unique Central American country known for abolishing its army back in 1949. The 1949 Constitution enshrined that regular armed forces were disbanded and the freed-up funds redirected toward education and healthcare. Since then, Costa Rica has not participated in military conflicts. The last time the country was involved in combat was in 1948 (civil war). In 1983, the Costa Rican government officially declared permanent neutrality, pledging not to support any side in international military disputes. This step was recognized by the international community and made Costa Rica a symbol of peace. The country actively promotes disarmament and peaceful conflict resolution worldwide. Without an army, Costa Rica relies on a small civilian Guard Corps (Public Security Forces) to maintain order and protect borders, and in case of an external threat, counts on collective support under inter-American treaties.

The absence of armed forces has not prevented Costa Rica from achieving relative safety and stability. On the contrary, resources are directed toward social development: literacy is around 98%, and ecology and education are government priorities. Costa Rica is rightfully considered one of the most peaceful countries: since 1949 there has been no military coup or invasion. For religiously and politically neutral people, this is an attractive environment – society values tolerance, and the state is not engaged in any geopolitical games.

Legal ways to move to Costa Rica. Costa Rica’s immigration policy is quite liberal, especially toward retirees, investors, and remote workers. The main categories of residency (Residencia Temporal) include:

• Pensionado visa. Designed for foreign retirees. Requirement – verified lifetime pension income of at least $1,000 per month. The applicant must transfer this amount monthly into a Costa Rican bank and reside at least 4 months per year in the country. Pensionado status is issued for 2 years with renewal, and after 3 years one may apply for permanent residence.
• Rentista. A category for individuals with independent income. Requires proof of a stable income from abroad of at least $2,500 per month for the next 2 years, or a one-time deposit equivalent to $60,000 into a Costa Rican bank account. After this, the applicant receives rentista status for 2 years. Upon expiration, they may renew by providing a new deposit or move toward permanent residence (after 5 years of residence).
• Investor residence (Inversionista). Granted to foreigners who have invested at least $150,000 in Costa Rica’s economy (real estate, business, or government securities). In 2021, under Law No. 9996, the minimum investment threshold was reduced from $200,000 to $150,000 for a 5-year period. Investors receive a temporary residence permit for 2 years, renewable as long as the investment is maintained.
• Remote Worker Visa. A new category introduced in 2022. Allows remote workers and entrepreneurs to live in Costa Rica for up to 1 year (with the possibility of renewal for another year). Requirements – verified monthly income of at least $3,000 for an individual applicant (or $4,000 for a family), health insurance, and employment outside Costa Rica. Holders of this visa are exempt from local taxes on foreign income and may open a bank account.
• Work and business. Although Costa Rica’s labor market is not very large, foreign companies in free zones (especially in medical device manufacturing and service centers) hire foreign specialists. Obtaining a work status is more difficult, as the employer must prove the absence of local candidates. However, after 5 years of continuous work, one may apply for permanent residence.
• Naturalization through residence. After 7 years of residence as a temporary resident (or 5 years if married to a citizen), a foreigner may apply for Costa Rican citizenship. The country allows dual citizenship, and the Costa Rican passport provides visa-free access to 150+ countries.

Costa Rica is famous for its friendly attitude toward immigrants. For religiously neutral individuals, the freedom of religion and multiculturalism is a major advantage – Catholic by heritage, Costa Rica today is home to communities of many different faiths. This country is a clear example that life in a safe, army-free country is possible and can be very comfortable.

Panama

Neutrality and obligations. Panama has historically held strategic importance thanks to the Panama Canal, but itself strives to remain outside military conflicts. After the withdrawal of U.S. troops and the transfer of control over the canal (under the Torrijos–Carter Treaties of 1977), Panama declared the permanent neutrality of the Canal – it remains open to ships of all nations in both wartime and peacetime. In addition, in 1994, Panama amended its Constitution to permanently abolish the national army. By law, the creation of permanent armed forces is now prohibited in Panama, and defense matters are handled by the Public Security Forces (National Police, Border Service, and Air Service). Panama became the second country in Latin America (after Costa Rica) to constitutionally abolish its army. This decision came in the wake of mistrust of the military regime of M. Noriega after 1989.

Ways to stay legally in Panama. Panama is one of the most open corners of the Americas for immigration, especially for entrepreneurs and retirees. Its residency programs are known for simplicity and fast processing. Key options include:

• Friendly Nations Visa. Launched in 2012 for citizens of 50+ friendly nations (including most European countries, the UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, etc.). Initially, it practically granted automatic permanent residence upon opening a company in Panama or depositing $5,000 in a local bank. Since August 2021, the rules tightened: the applicant must either invest at least $200,000 in Panamanian real estate, place $200,000 in a three-year bank deposit, or secure a job offer from a Panamanian company. Meeting one of these conditions grants temporary residency, which after 2 years converts into permanent residence.
• Pensionado visa (Panama Pensionado Program). Considered one of the best retirement programs in the world. Requirement – a lifetime pension of at least $1,000 per month (state or private company). The applicant is granted lifetime permanent residency almost immediately, with no need for renewal. The program also applies to early retirees: if the pension is $750 plus real estate worth at least $100,000 in Panama is purchased, the lower income threshold is acceptable.
• Qualified Investor Program. Since 2020, Panama has offered expedited permanent residence for investment. An investment of $500,000 in real estate (or $500,000 in Panamanian securities or a 5-year bank deposit) grants immediate permanent resident status without waiting.
• Temporary residence permits for specialists. Foreign companies and local employers may sponsor a work visa for a valuable employee. Typically, no more than 10% of staff may be foreigners, but this rule is loosely enforced. After 2 years, residency can be renewed, and after a total of 5 years, one may apply for permanent residence.
• Remote Worker Visa (Short-Stay Remote Worker Visa). Introduced in May 2021, it allows remote work from Panama for 9 months (renewable once for up to 18 months). Requires foreign income of at least $36,000 per year. This status does not lead to permanent residence but offers a convenient way to live in Panama without traditional residency.

Panama is an economically liberal country with a dollarized economy. Combined with its neutral status, Panama has become popular among entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to live in the tropics in a stable environment. After experiencing Panama’s advantages, many ask: which safe country to move to in 2025? – often choosing Panama.

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Singapore

Neutrality and obligations. Singapore is a highly developed city-state in Southeast Asia that, while not having formally proclaimed neutrality in legal terms, has historically adhered to the principle of non-alignment with military blocs. Singapore has been a member of the Non-Aligned Movement since 1970, reflecting its position: friends with all, enemies with none. The country is not part of NATO or any regional military alliances, preferring bilateral defense cooperation. At the same time, Singapore maintains active ties with both the West (having agreements for U.S. and other navies to access its bases) and China – balancing between major powers.

Domestically, there is a high degree of militarization, with one of the most capable armies in the region. Military service in Singapore is compulsory for men – from the age of 18, every male citizen and permanent resident serves about 2 years in the army, police, or civil defense. After that, until the age of 40–50, men remain in the reserve and are called up annually for training (up to 40 days). Singapore may be called a neutral ally – it does not sign mutual defense treaties but cooperates closely with many countries. The political system is stable, with no internal conflicts – society is multi-religious and coexists peacefully (Buddhists, Taoists, Muslims, Christians, etc.). For religiously neutral individuals, Singapore is an attractive place where the state strictly safeguards interfaith peace.

Immigration options in Singapore. Singapore’s strict immigration rules are offset by excellent conditions for life and business: safety, low taxes, and advanced infrastructure. Obtaining permanent residence is not easy, but there are several established pathways:

• Professional migration. The main path is an invitation to work at a Singaporean company, with the more flexible ONE Pass available for highly paid professionals.
• For startup founders and investors. Startup founders can obtain an EntrePass, while major investors through investments of S$2.5–10 million may qualify for permanent residency under the GIP program.
• Through education. Studying at a Singaporean university does not grant automatic residency, but it significantly facilitates job search and obtaining a work pass.
• Special programs: Singapore grants asylum very rarely, but for ultra-high-net-worth individuals there is the Family Office option as a tool for capital migration.

Uruguay

Neutrality and obligations. Uruguay is a small country in South America, sometimes called the Switzerland of Latin America due to its stability and non-alignment. Uruguay has historically sought to avoid involvement in regional and global military conflicts. In both World Wars, Uruguay maintained neutrality almost until the very end (only symbolically declaring war on the Axis in 1945). The country is not a member of any military alliances. South American organizations (MERCOSUR, OAS) are not military blocs, and Uruguay participates in them with a focus on diplomatic cooperation. In modern history, the last military actions on Uruguayan territory occurred more than a century ago.

Uruguay’s domestic politics are among the most democratic in the region, with strong institutions and a high legal culture. Uruguay’s army is small, about 25,000, and mainly engaged in security and UN peacekeeping missions. There is no conscription in Uruguay – it was abolished in the early 20th century. Service is fully voluntary, the defense budget is small, and the country does not pursue militarization. For religiously and politically neutral emigrants, Uruguay is attractive for its liberalism – it is a secular state with a long tradition of separation of church and state, tolerant and progressive (the first in the region to legalize same-sex marriage and cannabis).

Obtaining residency and permanent residency in Uruguay. Uruguay has one of the most immigrant-friendly legal systems in the world. The law states that immigration is useful and desirable, and practically any foreigner can apply for residency if intending to settle in the country. Key features include:

• Residency for financially independent individuals (Rentista). It is sufficient to prove a regular income of about $1,500 per month per family, and within 6–12 months one can obtain permanent residency without mandatory investments.
• Investment and business. Investments over $100,000 in real estate or business do not formally simplify residency, but provide tax benefits and favorable consideration.
• Labor migration. With a job contract in Uruguay, one can work freely and after 3 years of continuous work, apply for citizenship.
• Study. Foreign students study for free and may switch status to work or family after graduation.
• Naturalization. Citizenship is possible after 5 years of residence (3 years with family or marriage). Multiple citizenship is allowed, and the Uruguayan passport provides visa-free travel to 153+ countries.

Procedures in Uruguay are transparent and inexpensive, with many steps available online. Obtaining residency often takes less than a year, which is very fast by global standards. As a result, Uruguay has become a safe haven for expats seeking a secure, democratic country with a neutral foreign policy. For those choosing which safe country to move to in 2026, Uruguay offers an attractive combination: political neutrality, simple relocation, and a pleasant climate with a European lifestyle in the heart of Latin America.

Mauritius

Neutrality and obligations. Mauritius is a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for its peaceful policy and absence of an army. After gaining independence from the UK in 1968, Mauritius abolished permanent armed forces. Since then, the country has had no army in the traditional sense – only the police and the Special Mobile Force (SMF) perform functions of internal security and emergency response. Although neutrality is not directly enshrined in the Constitution, Mauritius effectively pursues a non-alignment policy. The country actively participates in the African Union, the United Nations, and the Non-Aligned Movement, promoting peaceful dispute resolution. Mauritius has a reputation as a safe haven in the region, has never been involved in wars, and has no territorial conflicts.

The absence of an army has allowed resources to be redirected toward development – today Mauritius is a leader in Africa in terms of living standards, education, and human rights. There is no conscription. For religiously neutral people, Mauritius is attractive for its multiculturalism: Hindus, Christians, Muslims, and Chinese coexist peacefully here, thanks to its history of immigration. The state guarantees freedom of religion and strives to balance community interests.

Immigration opportunities in Mauritius. In recent years, Mauritius has become a hub for financial and IT services, as well as a popular destination among wealthy foreigners as a place for a second home. The government offers several clear long-term residence programs:

• Residence by Investment. Buying property worth at least $375,000 in approved projects grants permanent residency, valid as long as the property remains owned by the investor.
• Occupation Permit. Professionals, investors, and retirees may obtain a 10-year permit (with investments from $50k, salary from about $1,300, or transfers of $1,500/month), which after 3 years leads to a 20-year permanent residency.
• Premium Visa. A one-year visa for remote workers with foreign income (from about $1,500/month), allowing residence without taxes under non-resident status.

Countries that will not go to war exist – and often prosper thanks to their peaceful stance.

Liechtenstein

Neutrality and obligations. Liechtenstein is a tiny principality in the Alps, situated between neutral Switzerland and Austria, which is also not a member of military blocs. After the Austro-Prussian War of 1866, Liechtenstein disbanded its army and declared permanent neutrality, which it has effectively observed since 1868. Since then, the principality has not participated in any wars; even in both World Wars, it remained neutral and untouched. Liechtenstein has no armed forces – its security is guaranteed by agreements with Switzerland, with which it is in a customs and defense union. Neutrality is not constitutionally enshrined, but de facto the Principality avoids any military alliances. Since 1990, Liechtenstein has been a member of the UN but abstains from peacekeeping operations due to the absence of an army. There is no conscription since the army was disbanded over a century ago.

Liechtenstein’s population is about 39,000. The principality is focused on development as a financial center and industrial hub (producing high-precision equipment, with well-known brands such as Hilti and Ivoclar). Politically, the country relies on Switzerland – for example, its external border is guarded by the Swiss, and its postal system and currency are fully integrated (the Swiss franc is in circulation). In return, Switzerland guarantees the defense of Liechtenstein.

Prospects for obtaining residency in Liechtenstein. Liechtenstein’s immigration policy is the strictest in Europe, given its tiny size. The state imposes strict quotas on residence permits. Each year, the principality issues only about 89 residence permits to foreigners, most of which are allocated to Swiss and European Economic Area (EEA) citizens. Nationals of third countries (non-EU) may obtain residency only in exceptional cases – usually highly qualified specialists or major investors, to whom the government allocates a quota by special decision.

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Conclusions

The rise in international tensions makes many people consider moving to countries that are not part of military blocs and remain apart from conflicts. The ten countries reviewed – each in its own way – offer refuge for those who value peace and stability. Switzerland and Austria, historically neutral European countries, provide a high level of security, though they require significant funds or skills from immigrants. Ireland and Malta, remaining militarily neutral within the EU, are open to qualified specialists and investors thanks to their programs. Costa Rica and Panama are examples of neutral countries in the Americas where it is relatively easy to obtain residency (especially for retirees and investors) and live far from global conflicts. Singapore pursues an independent policy and is known for safety and law and order – though obtaining permanent residency there is not easy. Uruguay demonstrates that even in South America there is an island of neutrality and democracy with very immigrant-friendly rules. Mauritius proves the same for Africa: without an army and developing peacefully, the island attracts wealthy residents with the simplicity of obtaining status through investment.

When choosing a safe haven, it is important to consider not only neutrality but also quality of life, potential for integration, language barrier, availability of healthcare and education, and taxes. A neutral stance does not automatically mean paradise – for example, Turkmenistan is also formally neutral, but few people want to live there. We have deliberately selected democratic, economically stable neutral countries where legal immigration is truly possible. Each of them has its own nuances of immigration law: in some cases finances are key (Malta, Mauritius), in others – skills (Ireland, Singapore), and in some moderate income is enough (Uruguay, Panama). For religiously neutral individuals, the level of social tolerance is also important: in the listed countries – except perhaps Singapore with its strict laws – there is respect for privacy and freedom of religion.

It can be noted: countries that will not go to war exist and often prosper thanks to their peaceful stance. Emigration to a neutral country is a real way to minimize risks associated with war and political upheaval. However, one must carefully approach the process of obtaining status, for which the InvestHaven.co team can definitely provide assistance.

It is impossible to fully predict geopolitics, but neutral states appear to be the most likely countries that will not be involved in war after 2025, which makes them so attractive for the new relocation wave of 2025–2026.

Prepared by specialists of InvestHaven. All materials on immigration and real estate investments on the website and in the blog at www.InvestHaven.co are intended solely for informational purposes and are not direct instructions for action, nor financial, legal, or investment advice. For relocation planning (including permanent or temporary residency or citizenship) and real estate investments, please contact the InvestHaven team specialists.

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