Question: If someone has an opportunity to live in a so-called Islamic country (as there is no true Islamic state) but he lives in a so-called secular state (which just exists for worldly benefits and advantages) which is not really a secular state, where he has a lot of problems like performing his salat (prayers) in time with jamat (the congregation) or having masjid (a place for prostration) most places, where should he decide to live?
Answer: Abu Saeed Khudri...relates that Nabi...is reported to have said; Verily the encounters of migration are severe, (Bukhari, Vol.1. Pg.195. Rashidiya). Migrating from one country to another country is a very big step in a person's life. Therefore it is important to consider the following; 1) He is leaving a place he is already accustomed to. 2) Change of environment for him and his family, which may be difficult to cope with. 3) New living styles will have to be adopted. 4) No guarantee of proper housing, schooling, and occupation etc.
Therefore if there is freedom of religion in one's country of residence and there is no problem from the side of the government on religious matters, then it is not necessary to migrate from there. This is especially so if one has a decent job and is earning a moderate amount to see to the needs of his family. If a masjid is close to ones home or job then all out efforts should be made to perform salat with jamat. However, in a case where ones home or job is a significant distance from the masjid then an effort should be made to perform salat with jamat. However if this is not possible, one will be excused from salatul jamat. If a person is lazy in performing salat that same habit will remain even after migrating. Therefore migrating will not solve the problem. Mugahadah (renewal) of the nafs (soul) is necessary. Allah Ta'ala (God the Highest) says; "As for those who strive hard in Our paths, We will certainly guide them unto Our paths, And indeed Allah Ta