Nearly one million refugees legally migrated to safer countries between 2019 and 2023, according to a new UNHCR-OECD report. Refugees from eight countries with high asylum recognition rates were issued permits for work, study, or family reunification.
These permits were granted across 38 destination countries through regular migration systems—not special humanitarian programs. The figures represent a major shift in how displaced populations are accessing legal and safe migration alternatives.
2023 MARKS RECORD YEAR FOR REFUGEE LEGAL PATHWAYS
In 2023 alone, nearly 255,000 refugees obtained legal entry through migration permits, up 14% from the previous year. This follows a 39% increase between 2021 and 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic migration levels for the first time.
An additional 30,000 individuals accessed relocation through private or community sponsorship schemes. The total number of legal entries makes 2023 the most successful year since data collection began in 2010.
FAMILY REUNIFICATION STILL LEADS ALL ENTRY CATEGORIES
Family reunification made up 63% of all permits granted, with work (19%) and study (18%) visas also seeing growth. These categories reflect broader access to standard immigration systems for refugees facing long-term displacement.
According to UNHCR, these legal channels are crucial for helping refugees rebuild independent and stable lives. “They use the same systems millions access daily,” said UNHCR’s Ruven Menikdiwela. “We don’t need new ones—just better access.”
TOP COUNTRIES LEADING IN LEGAL MIGRATION PATHWAYS
Countries like Germany, Canada, the US, UK, and Sweden led the efforts, welcoming large numbers via existing immigration frameworks. These nations help bring the world closer to the 2.1 million-entry goal under the Global Compact on Refugees.
Legal pathways provide larger-scale solutions beyond traditional resettlement and expand options for long-term relocation. “These are effective tools,” said Menikdiwela. “They allow refugees to move from aid dependence to self-reliance.”
UNHCR Pushes for Practical Reforms and Broader Access
UNHCR urges states to fully integrate refugees into their migration systems, reducing barriers and paperwork hurdles. Proposals include machine-readable travel documents, faster permit processing, and recognition of foreign qualifications.
The agency is also seeking partnerships with schools, companies, and local communities to expand opportunities. With increased collaboration, more refugees could gain access to safe, legal migration options without waiting years in limbo.
GLOBAL NEEDS ARE GROWING, AND SO IS DISPLACEMENT
As displacement hits historic highs, pressure is mounting on asylum systems and host countries’ resources. Many governments face internal challenges that threaten their ability to maintain or grow these legal pathways.
Still, experts stress the need to protect gains and expand successful models seen in this latest report. Menikdiwela emphasized the urgency: “We must invest in what works—these legal pathways are vital to our shared responsibility.”
LEGAL PATHWAYS ARE WORKING—BUT NEED SCALING
This landmark report proves refugees can safely migrate using regular systems when given fair access and clear routes.
Countries that champion these efforts reduce suffering while upholding their international obligations. The UN calls for broader commitment to keep these doors open—and open them wider—for those in need.