Countries Where Migrants Make Up Less Than 1% of the Population

Lusaka, Zambia – Zambia stands as one of the 43 countries worldwide where international migrants comprise less than one percent of the total population, according to recent data. This demographic reality places the Southern African nation within a significant global cohort, encompassing nearly three-fifths of humanity, where foreign-born residents are a minimal demographic presence. While global discourse frequently centres on nations with high immigration rates, Zambia's experience offers a contrasting perspective, reflecting a unique interplay of historical, economic, and policy factors. Historically, Zambia's migration patterns have been influenced by its strategic location and economic drivers, particularly the copper mining boom of the 20th century, which attracted both internal and international labour. However, the overall volume of international migration to Zambia has remained consistently low. Data from 2024 indicates Zambia's migrant population at 1% of the total, a figure that has remained unchanged since 2020. This is significantly lower than the world average of 13%, underscoring Zambia's position as a country with limited international inward migration. In response to evolving migration dynamics and the need for more streamlined governance, Zambia recently enacted the Immigration Control Act of 2026, replacing the 2010 legislation. This new law aims to modernise the immigration framework, reduce administrative barriers, and introduce clearer, more structured pathways for various permit categories, including employment and residence. The reform aligns with Zambia's 2022 National Migration Policy, which seeks to balance economic development, social cohesion, and national security while promoting well-managed migration. Despite the low overall migrant percentage, Zambia is a country of origin, transit, and destination for various migrant groups, including labour migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees, primarily from neighbouring countries like the Dem