Expat news
Formalities
With the start of the new year, significant changes as a result of Brexit kicked in. Theoretically, the UK left the EU and its institutions on February 1, 2020. Now, the 11-month transition and negotiation period has ended, and the deal between the UK and the EU has come into effect. New agreements and regulations, which span across work life, travel, education, healthcare, tax, and communications, define the UK's relationship with the EU and vice versa. This article presents the key points of the Brexit deal which are likely to affect British expats and expats-to-be in the EU and EU nationals who are planning to move to the UK or are already there.
Moving
You're perhaps waiting for the pandemic to come to an end before moving abroad, but no one can tell how long it's going to take. Moreover, with current travel restrictions and border closures, and some countries being locked down once again following a new surge, especially in Europe and Asia, choosing your next destination can be a difficult task. Still, this hard turned out to be a blessing for some countries that are trying to boost their economy by attracting foreign nationals.
Moving
Many of you are perhaps waiting for borders to reopen and for activities to resume so that you can finally move abroad, regardless of your motivations. Whether you dream of working, studying or retiring overseas amidst the crisis, there are many points to consider. So here's your 2021 moving abroad checklist to help you get started.
The least one can say is that 2020 has not been the easiest of years! But as we step into a new year, we all bear the hope that it will be a better one. Here is what the Expat.com team wishes for you for 2021.
Work
To celebrate Expat.com's 15 years of existence is to celebrate all the expats who make us who we are. Over the course of December, we shared with you a selection of interviews we had previously carried out. We got in touch with these expats to check up on them and to get a first-hand account of where they have been since they were interviewed.
Everyday life
Several European countries have locked down and tightened their health restrictions in recent weeks due to a new surge of coronavirus. Celebrations and public events were, therefore, cancelled as gatherings are limited to a certain number. Still, other countries are preparing to welcome the New Year in a more relaxed atmosphere, with social distancing and the wearing of masks as the new normal.
Everyday life
This year, Christmas and New Year's Eve will be like no other, with popular events like Christmas markets, concerts and shows being cancelled. Still, you can choose from a wide range of free and paid online activities to keep yourself busy even though you're locked down and away from your loved ones. Here are some tips.
Everyday life
For most of us, Christmas is all about having a beautifully decorated Christmas tree under which we gather to get our Christmas gifts. It's also the time for family celebrations over a grand dinner. However, your host country may have some unusual Christmas traditions that can surprise you.
Everyday life
This year, New Year's Eve will be different for most of us, regardless of the country where we live. With lockdown and health restrictions, including travel bans and limits on social gatherings, many will welcome the New Year alone at home or in small groups. Expats tell us how they are planning to celebrate New Year's Eve away from their loved ones.
Everyday life
It can be hard for expats to observe their culture and traditions during this festive season. Amid lockdowns and health restrictions, many of you haven't been able to travel back home and spend the holidays with your families. So if you're having the blues of your home country, here are some tips for keeping your traditions and culture alive, though virtual.
Moving
It's been nearly a year since the COVID-19 crisis tore thousands of families apart. While many expats chose to stay in their host country, and others were stranded abroad due to travel restrictions, some chose to reunite with their family in their home country. They talk to Expat.com about how hard it was in the beginning and where they stand today.
Everyday life
If you've recently moved abroad, especially to a tropical country, Christmas will probably be different from what you're used to. But what is Christmas like without the snow and the cold, and a cup of hot chocolate by the fireplace? While Christmas is celebrated in most tropical countries, even in the southern hemisphere, some of them have their own traditions.
Everyday life
This year, we'll all be having a Christmas like no other. While some countries are locked down, and others have travel restrictions in place, travelling back home to celebrate with your loved ones is not an option. As adults, we're more likely to compromise with the current situation. Still, for children who are used to celebrating with their grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, it might be much more complicated. So here are some tips for getting your children into the Christmas spirit amid the pandemic.
At this very time last year, the whole world was waking up to a new disease and had no idea that we would need to come to terms with a whole new way of life because of it. The first few cases of COVID-19 were first detected in Wuhan, China. A year later, are things back to normal in this town? Looking back on 2020, what do expats living in China have to say?
Health system
Last week, the United Nations Commission voted to classify cannabis as a less dangerous drug. Of the 53 member states of this committee, 27 voted for while 25 others are against. However, the legalisation of medical cannabis has been debated in many countries for several years. So how have countries been dealing with this issue until now?
Work
The global health crisis had a significant impact on the global labour market, leading to a rising unemployment rate. Finding a job abroad can, therefore be a tedious task. Still, there are other options to consider, like doing an internship or volunteering abroad. Young expats talk to us about their experience and about the benefits of gaining international work experience.
Everyday life
With the COVID-19 pandemic, Christmas is going to be different in most countries this year. But being unable to go on vacation, to reunite with your loved ones back home, or enjoy the usual events and activities in your host country due to health restrictions and social distancing doesn't mean you should sit down and get bored at home. Here's how you can get into the Christmas spirit even though the crisis is keeping you away from the rest of the world.
Other Types
Accommodation
There are lots of reasons why you may be considering purchasing property abroad. First, owning property comes with stability and security, which is something expats often long for after relocation. You will also finally be able to style your home as you like, bringing in the little decor elements that you hold dear.
Everyday life
Are you thinking about living abroad? Perhaps you've considered it for a long time but haven't dared to take the plunge. It never seems like the right time due to inflation, rising living costs, and the fear of failing. But you could see these challenges as opportunities instead. Here are 50 reasons (and there are many more!) to live your dream of expatriation at least once.
Everyday life
We rarely consider our gut health and diet when moving abroad. Before leaving, our minds are consumed with travel preparations. The initial phase of expat life often coincides with a honeymoon period. Then comes the necessary adaptation, where daily life takes over. "The Expat Gut Health Survey: How Symptoms Can Impact Life Abroad," a study by Allianz Care, published on May 29, surveyed over 3,000 expats worldwide and unveils the link between gut health and quality of life.
Formalities
One of the most anticipated elections of the year is approaching. Will the European Union (EU) emerge from these elections more divided, or will it strengthen its unity? As we await the final predictions and, more importantly, the first results, let's examine the voting procedures. What conditions must expatriates meet to vote in the European elections? Are European expatriates living within or outside the EU treated the same way?
Everyday life
When living abroad and planning to have a child, many factors come into play: healthcare, maternity support, parental leave, daycare, and more. This wonderful life event requires good organization, especially when you're an expat. One important aspect to consider (if you choose to) is breastfeeding, particularly in public spaces. While natural, breastfeeding can be controversial, heavily criticized, discouraged, or even banned in some countries.
Work
A new trend among dynamic employees is working while walking, which not only boosts office performance but also enhances overall life productivity. As awareness of the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle grows, new work methods are emerging. It's also a matter of well-being, essential for better work performance. Here's everything you need to know if you're planning a professional adventure abroad.
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