asylum & moving abroad
In many countries it's still a crime to be gay, bi or trans, and in some it can mean prison or death. If you're in danger, or you've already fled, there are organisations whose whole job is to help you. You don't have to work it out alone.
General information, not legal advice; see our legal policies. Asylum law is complicated and changes often. Always get advice from an immigration lawyer or a specialist organisation before you apply. Information is correct at the time of writing (October 2026).
In danger now?
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staying safe online
- Assume your phone may be checked at borders and by police in some countries. Delete or hide apps, chats and photos you couldn't explain. Before you delete anything you may need as evidence, keep a copy somewhere safe away from your phone, like an encrypted account or with someone you trust.
- Be careful on dating apps. Police and blackmailers in some countries use fake profiles to trap people. See your rights on sextortion.
- Use a secure messaging app with disappearing messages when talking to helpers.
how asylum works
Under international law, people who face persecution because of their sexual orientation or gender identity can qualify for refugee protection. In practice:
- You usually have to be in, or at the border of, the country where you're claiming asylum. You can't usually apply from home.
- Claim as early as you can. Many countries have deadlines (for example, one year after arriving in the US), and delays can count against you.
- You'll be interviewed about who you are and what happened to you. It can be hard. A specialist organisation can help you prepare.
- Only take advice from a qualified immigration lawyer or an accredited adviser. Be wary of anyone who charges to "guarantee" asylum.
- Resettlement through the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) is another route for people who have already fled to a third country.
your story & evidence
Officials will want to understand your identity and the danger you face. It can help to keep, safely, things like letters or messages from partners, photos at LGBTQ+ events, membership of LGBTQ+ groups, police or medical records, and news reports about your country. You don't have to "prove" you're gay by any stereotype; good decision-makers know that.
Kink and fetish identities don't usually count as a basis for asylum on their own, but you can still mention them where they're part of your story.
after you arrive
- Asylum housing isn't always safe for LGBTQ+ people. Tell your lawyer or support group if you're being harassed.
- Health care: ask about HIV care, PrEP and trans care; many countries provide some care to asylum seekers.
- Community: many LGBTQ+ centres run groups for refugees and migrants; see finding community.
- Mental health: trauma and isolation are common. Our support page lists crisis lines in 110 countries.
who can help
- Rainbow RailroadHelps LGBTQI+ people escape state-sponsored violence worldwide.
- ORAMThe Organization for Refuge, Asylum and Migration, supporting LGBTIQ refugees and asylum seekers, especially in East Africa.
- Immigration EqualityFree legal help for LGBTQ+ and HIV-positive immigrants and asylum seekers in the US.
- Rainbow MigrationSupport and legal information for LGBTQI+ people going through the UK asylum and immigration system.
- Rainbow RefugeeSupports LGBTQ+ people seeking refuge in Canada, including private sponsorship.
- ILGA-Europe membersFind LGBTI groups in European countries, many of which support refugees.
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