We prioritize safety whenever we consider a place to visit. Even though you may want to explore and have an adventure, losing your valuables due to robbery is not desirable. Therefore, you may wonder what the safest country is and how you can apply for a visa to visit. You could also want to have the information for personal knowledge. Whatever the case is, here are the top 3 safest countries to live in, according to the world population index:
1. Iceland
The Global Peace Index has ranked Iceland as the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row. Iceland maintains a shallow level of crime due to several factors, including its high standard of living, small population, strong social attitudes against corruption, increased trust in its well-trained police force, and absence of tension between social and economic classes. In addition, Iceland has no military, and the police do not carry firearms with them.
Petty crime like pickpocketing and robbery is rare, and violent crime is almost non-existent. With a population of about 372,520 people in the country, there’s a sense that everyone knows everybody. So travellers have little to worry about when visiting Iceland in terms of crime. Even pickpocketing in Iceland is out of the ordinary, and Icelanders typically leave their doors unlocked and windows open—when the weather permits—because the country is so safe.
The country’s overall safety makes it easy to go out and meet locals without worrying about the dangers of venturing out alone, especially if you’re staying around the capital city of Reykjavik. However, even with a low risk of crime and helpful locals, visitors to Iceland should use common sense and take precautions to prevent problems, especially during the coldest months of the year.
Iceland is one of the Schengen Zone countries, so Nigerian citizens will require an Iceland Schengen Visa to enter Iceland.
2. New Zealand
New Zealand is a very safe country to visit, the second safest in the world. The country has a low crime rate, with a homicide rate of just 0.7 per 100,000 people. New Zealand has a stable government, a strong economy, and a peaceful culture that values diversity and equality.
With only 5.1 million inhabitants, the country’s low population density contributes to its low crime rate, as people tend to be more closely connected and invested in their communities.
You will never see New Zealanders who are fearful to the extent that they hold their bags closer each time they meet someone. On the contrary, the atmosphere is highly endearing, and you’ll quickly notice the absence of distrust.
Even though life is good in New Zealand, as with anywhere in the world, there are problems with theft and assault. Pickpocketing isn’t common but is more likely to occur in busy public places such as bus/ferry/train stations, popular scenic spots, urban shopping streets and happening bar and restaurant centers.
To get a visa to visit New Zealand, apply through VFS Global. Schedule an appointment to have your application submitted, download and complete your application form, and get all of your documents ready to be submitted. After making the payment, you will receive a reference number. Wait to hear back regarding your application. You can track the progress of your application with your reference number via the VFS Global website.
3. Ireland
Ireland became notably more peaceful in 2021 and vaulted from 11th place to 3rd in the 2022 rankings. Crime is relatively low outside of a few city neighbourhoods (and as in any country, one should be wary of pickpockets and scammers in tourist-dense areas), and there is little threat of cultural violence or terrorism. Although more significant threats like robbery and shootings sometimes occur, these violent crimes don’t specifically target tourists. Instead, travellers are more apt to fall victim to scams like overcharging for tours and souvenirs.
To apply for an Irish Visa, applicants must submit a completed application form and provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses. In contrast, in the country, provide valid travel insurance that covers medical expenses for their stay, proof of accommodation during their stay in Ireland, a copy of their return flight ticket, proof of civil status, and a copy of their travel itinerary.
Summary
The three countries mentioned are the safest to live in due to crime rate estimates and other indices. This does not mean that the countries are a paradise or that other countries are not safe. As mentioned in the text, it also doesn’t mean that crime does not take place in these countries. Therefore, visitors are advised to be careful. Other factors, such as job opportunities, weather, and language, should also be considered when considering a country to relocate to.
