Fatwa ID: 21464
Title: Going to America
Category: Family and Personal Affairs
Scholar: Dr.Salah Al-Sawy
Date: 03/07/2008
Question

I am an Iraqi engineer who left Iraq because of the poor security situation there after the occupation. I now live with my family in Egypt under United Nations refugee status. That is because every Arab country is denying entry to Iraqis, but I was able to get into Egypt a year ago. I tried to get work in Egypt or in one of the other Arab countries, but I was unsuccessful and my financial situation has become critical. Now, however, the United Nations has requested residence for me in America. Is it permissible for me to go to America? Please advise and may Allah have mercy on you.
Answer

If you are going to America specifically to get out of your critical financial situation, you will be secure in your religion during your residence in that country and you would be able to uphold its manifest features, then there would be no blame in that, for all lands belong to Allah and all sentient beings are slaves of Allah, so wherever you find good, go.

 

AMJA has issued a detailed statement to which you might like to refer, concerning the verdict of living outside the lands of Islam. It should be of great benefit, by the Permission of Allah. We ask Allah to grant success to us and to you.

And Allah Almighty is more Exalted and more Knowledgeable.