Top Black-Friendly Countries to Live Abroad Comfortably

The dream of a life abroad often paints a picture of new horizons, fresh starts, and exciting experiences. For Black individuals and families, this dream also holds a deep yearning for spaces where you can feel seen, respected, and welcomed. It’s about finding a corner of the world that not only presents opportunities for work but also embraces you, your culture, and your family with open arms.

At Remitly, we walk alongside those courageously building lives in new lands, and we understand the layers of thought that go into such a profound move. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you explore destinations known for being welcoming and providing a positive experience for Black people.

Why choosing a Black-friendly country matters

Choosing the right country to live abroad is a decision that involves many factors. It’s a good idea to look beyond job opportunities or scenery and consider the social climate and how you will be received and treated. This focus can be especially relevant when considering moving to non-Black-majority countries.

First and foremost, feeling safe from racial discrimination, harassment, or violence is paramount, especially when joining a new culture where you’ll be part of a visible minority. Finding places that have existing Black expat populations can greatly enhance the experience of living abroad. This will make it easier to connect with other Black people, find or build diaspora networks, access familiar cultural touchstones, and see yourself represented in various aspects of society.

In the economic context, look for countries where you’ll have access to professional and personal growth opportunities. Living in an environment that values your contributions and allows you to thrive will be much more rewarding. Consider choosing places where there are systemic efforts to ensure fair treatment, equal opportunities, and where Black cultures and contributions are acknowledged and respected within the broader society.

Key criteria for safety and inclusiveness  

When researching potential countries, here are some key aspects to look for:

• Anti-discrimination laws: Does the country have strong and effectively enforced laws against racial discrimination? What recourse is available if discrimination occurs?
• Social attitudes: What are the general societal attitudes towards racial and ethnic diversity? Research the lived experiences of other Black expats and locals through blogs, forums, and community groups.
• Representation: Is there a visible and positive representation of Black people in media, business, arts, and public life within that country?
• Safety records and reporting: Look into overall safety, but also try to find information or qualitative data specifically related to the safety and experiences of racialized groups and minorities.
• Community support: Are there established Black communities or diaspora networks that can provide support, connection, and a sense of belonging?
• Access to culturally relevant resources: The availability of products, services (e.g., hair care, food), and cultural spaces that resonate with the Black diaspora can contribute greatly to comfort and well-being.

Safe countries for black families  

Safety is a top priority for anyone moving abroad, and for Black families, it involves considering both general safety and security as well as the specific experiences of racial profiling or discrimination.

Overview of safety and security considerations  

Safe countries have stable governments, low violent crime, and policies that protect against discrimination. For Black families, it’s also about social safety and feeling accepted in daily life, from school to the workplace. This includes a welcoming community for children, where they can grow up feeling affirmed, included, and safe in their identity, with access to culturally sensitive education that promotes respect for diversity.

Safety includes both physical and psychological safety. You and your family should not only be free from racially-motivated violence and harrassment, but also from the daily stress of racial bias and microaggressions. A fair, inclusive, and trustworthy law enforcement system is an important component of this safety, along with the presence of supportive community systems.

Examples of countries providing a safe environment  

While no country is perfect and individual experiences differ, some countries are often cited by Black expats for offering a safe and welcoming environment. This is based on a combination of factors mentioned earlier and positive testimonials from Black residents.

• Canada: Known for its multiculturalism policy and strong anti-discrimination laws, Canada is a popular destination. Many Black expats report feeling a greater sense of safety and inclusion compared to some other Western nations.
• Costa Rica: Costa Rica is often highlighted for its peaceful culture (“Pura Vida”) and the welcoming nature of its people, including established Afro-Costa Rican communities.
• Portugal: Generally, Portugal is considered safe with a lower crime rate. While, like any country, it’s not free from instances of bias, many Black expats have reported positive experiences regarding personal safety and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Ghana: As a West African nation with strong ties to the diaspora, Ghana is often described as a place where Black individuals feel an inherent sense of belonging and safety.
• New Zealand: Frequently ranking high in global safety and peace indices, New Zealand is known as a society that values diversity and inclusion.

Best places for racial equity  

Racial equity goes beyond the absence of overt discrimination; it involves fair treatment, equal opportunity, and the proactive dismantling of systemic barriers. 

Importance of racial equity in living abroad  

Choosing a country that actively works towards racial equity means you’ll face less systemic discrimination and get fairer access to opportunities in employment, education, and housing. Greater social integration, a sense of being a valued part of the community, and a more just and supportive environment for raising children are other important perks.

Top countries known for their racial inclusivity  

Pinpointing the “best” countries for racial equity is complex, as data can be limited and experiences subjective. However, some nations are recognized for their strong legal frameworks against discrimination, social programs promoting inclusion, and positive reports from international human rights organizations or expat communities.

• Canada: Its official multiculturalism policy and human rights legislation are designed to protect against racial discrimination and promote equality.
• Nordic countries (e.g., Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark): They generally have strong social safety nets, high levels of social trust, and comprehensive anti-discrimination laws. They often rank high on global equality indices. 
• The Netherlands: This country is known for its historically tolerant society and legal protections against discrimination. You can check out some top cities in the Netherlands suitable for expats on our blog.
• New Zealand: This country has a strong focus on multiculturalism, with efforts to address historical injustices and promote inclusivity.

Community support and engaging environments  

The presence of an established Black expat community or a welcoming local Black population can make a huge difference in the settling-in process. You’re likely to have better access to networking opportunities—both social and professional—and support systems for navigating life in a new country. In addition, being able to share cultural understanding and experiences can create a sense of belonging and a home away from home. Finally, with a local Black community, you can build a collective voice for advocacy on issues affecting you.

Navigating the move: key considerations  

Once you have a shortlist of potential countries, the practical aspects of planning your move become essential.

Visa requirements and legal considerations  

Visa rules and residency requirements differ greatly based on your nationality, the reason for your move (e.g., work, study, retirement, investment), and how long you plan to stay. Always start by consulting the official government immigration website for each country you’re considering. For anything beyond a short tourist stay, especially if you’re planning to work, start a business, or seek long-term residency, getting advice from an immigration lawyer who specializes in your target country is highly recommended.

While researching, it’s useful to see if a country has clear non-discrimination policies stated within its immigration laws and procedures, though enforcement and lived experience can vary. Our general Moving Abroad Checklist can help you organize these tasks.

 Exploring healthcare and living standards

Here are several factors to research before making your decision:

• Healthcare access and quality: Investigate the healthcare system in your potential new home. Is it primarily public or private? What is the general quality of care, and what are the costs? Will you need to secure private health insurance, and what would that entail? It’s also worth researching the availability of culturally competent healthcare providers.
• Cost of living: This is a major factor. Carefully research the average costs for essentials like housing (rent or purchase), food, transportation, utilities, childcare, and entertainment in the specific cities or regions you’re looking at.
• Overall living standards: Consider other elements that contribute to your quality of life, such as the quality of public infrastructure (roads, internet), education options for children (if applicable, including international schools or local schools with inclusive curricula), political stability, safety, and general ease of daily life.
• Financial preparedness and management: Ensure you have a solid financial plan for the move itself and for your initial months of settling in. This includes understanding how to manage your money across borders. 

Careful research and preparation can help make your next move overseas a success. Whether you choose the beautiful landscapes of Costa Rica, the rich cultural tapestry of Ghana, or the laid-back atmosphere of New Zealand, you’re bound to find a welcoming, like-minded community. Wherever you decide to go, Remitly can help you transfer funds to your new destination or send money back home to family and friends. 

FAQ

How can I research the social climate for Black people in a potential new country?

Start by seeking out online communities: forums, social media groups (Facebook, Instagram), and blogs created by and for Black expats living in that specific country or city. Read personal stories and testimonials with an open mind, looking for common themes. Websites like Travel Noire often feature such experiences. Also, look for any reports from human rights organizations or academic research on racial dynamics in that nation, though these may be more general. Always try to gather a range of perspectives.

What are some good ways to connect with Black expat communities before I move?

Many Black expat communities are very active online. Once you’ve identified a potential city or country, search for phrases like “Black expats in [City/Country]” on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or even LinkedIn for professional connections. Join these groups, introduce yourself if you feel comfortable, observe discussions, and don’t hesitate to ask respectful questions. Some groups may host virtual meetups or Q&A sessions that you can join from anywhere.

Beyond safety and equity, what other factors are important for Black families moving abroad?

Families often prioritize access to quality education that is inclusive and reflects diverse perspectives, avenues for children to connect with their heritage and culture, access to culturally relevant goods and services (like hair care, food items), and healthcare providers who are culturally competent and sensitive. The overall cost of living and proximity to family support networks (if applicable) are also key factors.