Have you ever wanted to start your own country? That may sound like a fantasy novel, but people around the world have indeed done it. These little self-declared countries go by the moniker of micronations, and they live in some of the most fascinating places imaginable.

Creating a micronation of your own has nothing to do with breaking laws or making mischief, at least not necessarily. It’s about creativity but also, for many, community and sometimes a statement about politics or the environment. Some micronations are sustained for decades as serious projects, while others are just fun experiments that unite people.

In this article, we will read about the top places where you could theoretically establish your own micronation. From islands out in the middle of the ocean to unclaimed patches of land between countries, these spots present rare opportunities for anyone bold enough to explore them. We’ll consider what makes each place unique, some of the hurdles you could encounter and real-life examples of the micronations that already exist there.

Private islands are arguably the most common way of beginning a micronation. When you own an island, you have borders, nature’s own protection from the outside world, and a clear claim to your turf.

The island’s great tangible value is that it feels like a real country. You’re surrounded by water, which is a natural boundary. People have to come looking for you, so you can control who comes in and out. Some of the most enduring and successful micronations have been on islands, and in existence for more than 50 years.

But purchasing an island does not come cheap. Small islands in the Caribbean or Pacific, for example, can run from as little as a few hundred thousand dollars to several million. You also have to work with the country that controls the waters around your island. Even if you own the land, you are still bound by maritime laws and the regulations of nearby countries.

The North Sea is home to one of the most famous micronations, which occupies an old military platform. The Principality of Sealand was established in 1967 by ex-British Army major Paddy Roy Bates, who died in 2012. He took up residence in an abandoned World War II sea fort that is about seven miles off the coast of England.

Sealand has its own flag, currency (the Sealand dollar), passports and national anthem. The “country” is the size of two tennis courts and perched on concrete pillars 60 feet above the ocean. Throughout time, Sealand has defied legal challenges, an attempted coup and even offered thousands of novelty passports and noble titles.

The platform was an interesting case because it was located in international waters. The British government doesn’t consider Sealand a country, but it has been unable to evict its inhabitants either. This demonstration of how offshore platforms might be a creative possibility for micronations is noteworthy. Visit the official Sealand website

If you can’t find the ideal island, why not create one? With technology advancing, artificial islands are becoming more popular. Nations such as Dubai have manufactured gigantic artificial islands for tourism and real estate, and some entrepreneurs have considered doing so for micronations.

Seasteading is the idea that settling colonies on a virgin swath of ocean real estate would yield far more freedom to live exactly how one dreams they want. The Seasteading Institute has pushed for countries to develop independent communities on platforms anchored in the ocean. These would operate like their own societies, with their own laws, far enough from the shore to be beyond most national laws.

To create an artificial island requires serious money and engineering know-how. You’ve got to think about ocean currents, storms and the legal status of your building. Most countries have territorial waters that stretch 12 nautical miles out from their coasts, so you’d need to build even farther out to secure true independence.

Terra nullius is Latin for “no one’s land.” These are wild patches of land that no country officially owns. It’s really hard to find unclaimed land that is actually legitimized, but there are still a few spots.

The most well-known case is Bir Tawil, a 795-square-mile area between Egypt and Sudan. No one wants it; if they did, then it would mean relinquishing their claim on a bigger neighboring territory nearby. A few aspiring nation-builders have attempted to stake a claim on Bir Tawil including an American father who wanted to declare his daughter a princess.

There’s a reason terra nullius is unclaimed. These areas are typically remote, hostile or valueless in economic terms. Bir Tawil is a desert, with no water or roads or anything. The only way in is to go through Egypt or Sudan, two countries that also control access to the region.

Every now and then, borders don’t meet perfectly, leaving some unusual situations. There are districts or regions where two countries vie over the same land, or where no country is entirely certain who has title to what. These disputed areas might represent special opportunities for micronations.

The only real example of this approach that has worked so far is the micronation known as Liberland, established on a small patch of land along the Danube River separating Croatia and Serbia in 2015. This district, Gornja Siga, was unclaimed by either country because of a border dispute. It was claimed by Czech politician Vít Jedlička, who officially declared it the Free Republic of Liberland.

Liberland has drawn thousands of citizenship applications and the attention of other countries. But Croatian police have kept people away from the land, and it is not recognized as an independent state by either Croatia or Serbia. This is an illustration of both the promise and peril of contested regions.

You don’t have to actually be outside all countries in order to create a micronation. Many such entities are located on small, disputed territories that have never had a functioning government, or in places of fictional geographic and natural features.

The trick is finding remote land that you own or have the right to occupy. This might be a farm in the countryside, a house in a small town, or an apartment in the city. Your micronation is more emblematic than practical, of course, but it can still matter.

The Kingdom of North Sudan is a largely online state founded by an American father who travelled to Bir Tawil to lay down a flag. The Republic of Molossia is a chunk of 1.3 acres in Nevada, USA. Its founder, Kevin Baugh, has developed customs, currency and even a space program — all while recognizing that his land remains technically part of the United States.

Antarctica may feel like the ultimate in self reliance. It is remote, immense and largely uninhabited. But it’s also one of the worst places to attempt starting a micronation, thanks to the Antarctic Treaty.

This treaty, signed in 1959, declares that Antarctica is nobody’s. All territorial claims are suspended, and the continent will be used only for peaceful, scientific activities. Seven countries had asserted territorial rights over portions of Antarctica prior to the treaty, but new claims are prohibited.

Forming a nation in Antarctica would be against international law, and could lead to serious trouble. And the logistical hurdles are massive. The average winter temperature is minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit, there’s no natural food source and you’re thousands of miles from a hospital or supply store.

Best of all, in the age of digital technology you don’t need any physical territory for your micronation at all. Virtual micronations function solely on the internet, and they include members from all over the world who engage in technology such as websites, forums, and other forms of modern social media.

Established in 1979, the Kingdom of Talossa is one of the oldest micronations and runs almost completely online. It has a planned language, a complex legal code and frequent elections. People argue about laws, make art together and have a real community without ever having met.

Virtual micronations circumvent all the legal and physical issues of territory. You don’t need money to buy land, permission from governments, food and water solutions. But they also lack that physical presence that for many people makes a nation feel real.

The simplest, lowest-cost route is refusing to leave home and declaring your very own house a micronation. That’s how many of the micronations begin — some have become quite well-known, even.

The Grand Duchy of Westarctica started as a territorial claim over unclaimed Antarctic land, however it has transformed into a symbolic state with an emphasis on environmentalism. The Empire of Atlantium is situated on land in Australia, with a focus on global humanism.

When your micronation is merely your home or property, you skirt most legal issues. You’re not trying to separate from your country or evade taxes — you just want an identity and a community. Most governments let household micronations slide because they’re harmless.

The downside, of course, is that you are still very much subject to all local laws. If you don’t pay your taxes or you break local regulations, that won’t save you from fines and penalties by claiming to be an independent nation. Consider it more a hobby, or a statement, than true independence.

Decommissioned oil rigs and platforms have also been mentioned as being suitable for the same opportunities which Sealand provides. Such structures already exist in the ocean, many in international waters, and sometimes can be bought on the cheap when companies are finished with them.

The problem is that decommissioned oil rigs are supposed to be removed, or disposed of properly in accordance with environmental regulations. You could also find yourself in legal trouble simply by taking over an abandoned rig. And these very buildings need constant upkeep to remain safe and inhabitable.

A few dreamers have even floated the notion of turning decommissioned oil rigs into luxury hotels, research stations or independent communities. An oil rig also offers good approximation of advantages: Sealand has a well defined physical location and jurisdiction, defined boundaries, and potential for expansion.

Taking all these options into consideration, what does make a good place to start a micronation? Here are some of the elements to keep in mind:

Legal Status

The best spots are either not owned by any nation or so deep in international waters that powers-that-be can’t really claim jurisdiction. But totally unclaimed land is extremely rare.

Accessibility

You have to travel to and from your micronation and ship in all of the necessary supplies. Too distant, and you’re not going to be able to make it. Approach big nations too closely, and they will interfere.

• ⚖️ Ever wondered if micro-nations have their own laws? Find out here: How Micro Nations Make Their Own Laws

Resources

Are you able to obtain fresh water, food and energy? Islands in the sun with rainwater are better than desert wastelands or frozen tundra.

Safety

You need to be guarded from pirates, the elements and possible invasion in your vicinity. Natural barriers like ocean help, but they also make rescue challenging in emergencies.

Recognition

No micronation is actually recognized by the world stage, although there are some places where your claim to independence is stronger than others. Legal ownership of the land is useful, even if your claim to sovereignty does not fly.

Several micronations have enjoyed some success, despite not being recognised as real countries:

The Principality of Sealand has endured for more than 55 years, thwarted a coup and built a thriving business selling titles and souvenirs. It’s likely the most successful micronation in history.

The Western Australia-based Principality of Hutt River (1970-2020) commenced micro-nation status in 1970. Leonard Casley became a farmer who declared his farm to be an independent state in a row over wheat quotas. Over 50 years, he operated his farm like a “nation,” drawing tourists, and printing money until he dissolved it voluntarily.

The Conch Republic, an independent nation in Key West, Florida, was founded in 1982 as a protest over a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint. Though not exactly asserting its independence, it has become a favorite local character and major tourist draw.

The Republic of Molossia has existed since 1977, with elaborate rituals, a space program (model rockets) and even wars (against East Germany, declared when the Cold War was over). Kevin Baugh, the founder, shows how micronations can be both silly and serious.

The challenges you will encounter are the same no matter where in the world you originate your micronation:

Recognition

You will not be recognized as an independent country by any state or international organization. You do still have to obey the laws of other nations near to where you are living, especially in relation to taxation and criminal law.

Resources

Everything with food, water, electricity and medical care requires a connection to the outside world. True self-sufficiency is nearly impossible.

Money

Establishing and maintaining a micronation is expensive. You have to pay your bills while building your own country, and micronations are almost never money makers.

Isolation

The loneliness and perils of living far from civilization. Medical emergencies are not so life-threatening when you’re hours or days away from help.

The Legal Angle

Independence doesn’t exempt you from laws. Dozens of micronation founders have faced down legal action, been fined or even arrested.

So here is a realistic way to go about starting your own micronation, should you decide you really want to:

Start Small and Legal

Create your micronation on land you own, in compliance with all local regulations. Design a website, invent symbols such as a flag and currency, forge culture and identity.

Connect with the Micronation Community

Forums and conventions and networks of other champions exist. Follow folks who have been there before.

Be Clear About Your Goals

Is there some kind of art you are attempting to create here? Protesting government policy? Building a community? Having fun? Your intention will influence your method.

Don’t Expect Recognition or Independence

Think of your micronation as a project, not an alternative to real citizenship. Pay your taxes, obey the law and keep it peaceful.

Concentrate on What You Can Control

Focus on your community, culture, and values. These can be relevant, even without political sovereignty.

An understanding of the motivations can help explain why people choose different locations:

Political Protest

A few micronations are founded in opposition to government actions. These most often thrive in symbolic locations where they carry a message.

Personal Freedom

Many founders are motivated by the dreams of living on their own terms. This works best in remote areas, although full-on independence is not attainable.

Community

Micronations often work to establish a community with common beliefs. For these, it can matter less where the action is than who’s doing it.

Art

Some micronations are art pieces or works of performance art. These can be anywhere, including all-online.

Fun and Adventure

Sometimes it’s just a thing that people think sounds fun. These aren’t nations that declare themselves free in a solemn voice.

Technology is opening up new opportunities for micronations. Seasteading has not disappeared and its projects keep moving forward; some prototypes have actually been tested. Virtual reality might make it possible to have online nations that its citizens experience just as they would the real world. Digital currencies and governance systems can be implemented with the use of blockchain technology.

Climate change may also open new pathways as ice recedes in the Arctic. New islands associated with increased sea levels would be formed, while others would sink.

Legal attitudes may shift too. With more people working remotely and living digital lives, where you are has become less important. There is the potential for a greater degree of tolerance of symbolic micronations by some governments.

However, the fundamental challenges remain. All land is claimed by someone, international law is stronger than ever and the sovereignty of states is fiercely defended. The most likely candidates for micronation status will still be distant, marginal places that no one else wants quite enough to stand in your way.

So I can actually start my own country?

The answer, technically, is yes — you can declare independence and create the symbols and organization of a state. But no other country will acknowledge you as legitimate, and you’ll still be obligated to abide by the laws of whatever country you’re in. It may be more useful to consider them as projects, communities or statements than as real independent countries.

How can I start my own micronation as cheaply as possible?

The most affordable route is establishing a micronation on land you already have, perhaps in your house or backyard. With little more than the cost of a website domain, you can construct an entire nation online. Virtual micronations can also be totally free if you use free platforms and services.

Is starting a micronation illegal?

Just stating that your house, or piece of property is a micronation isn’t illegal practically anywhere. But if you seek to evade taxes, flout laws or obstruct legitimate government activities, you’ll find yourself in legal jeopardy. The trick is to keep the peace and follow real laws while allowing your micronation’s identity to thrive.

Is it required for micronations to pay taxes?

Yes, except if your micronation happens to be legitimately located outside all other national claims (which is almost impossible). Even the people of Sealand pay taxes to the United Kingdom. Declaring independence doesn’t free you from annual tax duty in the country where you actually live or are a citizen.

Can I purchase citizenship in a micronation?

Some micronations issue novelty passports, stamps, coins, banknotes and other items. But these are not legally binding. No country will accept your micronation passport for travel, and you don’t actually receive any real privileges or rights with these documents.

How do you distinguish if a country is micro or not?

Actual countries are acknowledged by other countries and global organizations, such as the United Nations. They have full sovereignty of their land, they guard their borders, and other countries recognize them as independent. Micronations don’t have any of that — they’re self-proclaimed and unacknowledged.

What is the only genuinely unclaimed land on Earth?

The region between Egypt and Sudan called Bir Tawil is the most frequently mentioned example. But even that is contested, and both countries control entry via their territory. Marie Byrd Land in Antarctica is also occasionally cited, though the Antarctic Treaty precludes new territorial claims on that continent.

Did any micronation ever grow to be a real country?

Not a single modern attempt at an international micronation has succeeded in becoming internationally recognised as an independent sovereign state. There are, however, historical precedents for small groups declaring independence and eventually winning recognition — but it’s not typically peaceful declarations that get people to sit up and take notice.

Creating your own micronation is one of the most ambitious and unique projects you could ever set yourself. From a remote island to a platform floating in the ocean, from unclaimed desert land to your very own backyard, each spot has its opportunities and challenges.

The reality, of course, is that no micronation will attain actual independence in the modern age. There’s no spare piece of Earth that isn’t claimed, watched, regulated. But that doesn’t make micronations pointless. They are imposing statements about politics, freedom and community. They can unify people around shared values. They can be works of art that provoke deeper thinking about nations and sovereignty.

Where is the best place for your micronation? If you’re serious and want to ensure that nobody can tell you what to do, then nothing short of a remote island or platform in the ocean will suffice — and even then, it will take a lot of money and hardheaded stubbornness. If community-building and making a statement is your goal, then you will do better with your own property or an online home.

Regardless of which route you take, keep in mind that the road is more important than the destination. The best micronations aren’t the ones with the strongest territorial claims – they’re those that give meaning to their founders and citizens.

So dream big, but plan small. Do the work, research thoroughly, connect with others and have backbone. The world may not see your micronation as a country, but that does not mean it can’t be an amazing adventure.