Features

How important is work-life balance for expats?
Work
How important is work-life balance for ...
Work-life balance may look different for different people — and different professions. But the basic definition of work-life balance refers to the state of equilibrium between one's personal and professional life, which is even more important for professionals moving abroad for a better life.
Experiencing Ramadan as an expat in a Muslim country
Everyday life
Experiencing Ramadan as an expat in a Muslim ...
Considered the month of peace, serenity, sharing and good deeds, this year, Ramadan is starting on the night of Wednesday, March 22, or Thursday, March 23, depending on the countries where it is celebrated. The month of Ramadan is one of the pillars of Islam. Therefore, Muslim countries pay special attention to the rules surrounding this solemn period. So, what should expat in Muslim countries look out for during this important time of the Islamic calendar?
Why is Germany struggling to retain foreign talent?
Germany
Why is Germany struggling to retain foreign ...
In early March, the German federal government officially introduced its new bill to attract international talent and, more importantly, to retain them in Germany. Because while they enjoy living in the country – especially students who love Germany – expats usually don't stay in the long run. Germany has a severe shortage of international talent. The country's growth is threatened by labor shortages and an aging population. But why don't foreigners settle in Germany permanently, and how can the government make the country more attractive?
Why being a doctor offers the best career opportunities worldwide
Work
Why being a doctor offers the best career ...
Being a doctor is currently one of the world's most sought-after and best-paid jobs. The healthcare sector worldwide is under pressure, and more and more countries have a growing need for adequate human resources in the medical field. The opportunities for foreign talent are many, but behind ambitious career plans lies a part of the destiny of entire nations. Let's take a closer look at the global situation.
Family reunification: Middle East countries' new bid new retain foreign talent
Everyday life
Family reunification: Middle East countries' ...
The first months of the Covid pandemic raised much concern regarding global mobility. Yet, it survived and has even been reinforced. Countries affected by unparallel labor force shortages are fighting to attract foreign talent. The competition for attractiveness stretches from Japan to the UK, including Australia, Germany, Canada, and many other countries. Middle East countries are playing the family card to attract and retain foreign talent. Let's have a closer look at these measures.
How to manage your finances when living overseas?
Banks and finance
How to manage your finances when living ...
According to a recent survey by HSBC, 45% of people planning to relocate to a new country feel lost about managing their finances after the move. This is an understandable concern: banking, paying taxes and transferring money between countries can be complicated. Below, we will look into the details of the HSBC survey and suggest an effective action plan for managing finances when moving abroad.
These countries provide cultural visas for full immersion
Visas
These countries provide cultural visas for ...
When considering cultural immersion, we often picture a new language learning experience. Indeed, the idiom matches this definition. But what if we told you this immersion could bring much more than language learning? Without a doubt, culture is everything, and most of the time, this is what expats are looking for. But it also attracts culturally diverse artists willing to study, attend an event or carry out their art in a country.
Why does studying abroad cost so much?
Schools & studies
Why does studying abroad cost so much?
Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of studying abroad had already become a significant factor for many international students and their families, particularly in South Asia and Africa. These regions have seen a rising interest in studying abroad, but with limited financial resources, there has been a growing emphasis on the return on investment of such a decision.
How do strikes affect the lives of expats?
Everyday life
How do strikes affect the lives of expats?
For several months now, the Netherlands has experienced a series of public transport strikes due to the inability of unions and public transport operators to come to an agreement regarding salaries, work contracts, and employee workloads. In this context, we've decided to look into how strikes may affect the lives of expats and what they can do to plan their everyday life in the new circumstances.
How important is quality of life for expats?
Everyday life
How important is quality of life for expats?
For prospective expats, the quality of life is a crucial factor when deciding to move abroad. In this article, we will explore what quality of life means for expats, how it can impact their decision to move abroad, and how they can evaluate the quality of life factors when considering a new destination. Whether you're planning to move abroad or are already an expat, these pointers will help you better understand what quality of life means and how it can affect your experience living abroad.
Countries where the Covid risk still exists
Hong Kong
Countries where the Covid risk still exists
There have been rumors since the end of 2022. Then John Lee, the Special Administrative Area's (SAR) Chief Executive, confirmed the news. Hong Kong is finally back to "normality". The wearing of masks is no longer mandatory for Hongkongers. Still, the mask is still strongly recommended in high-risk areas. Hong Kong is one of many countries to go by this preventive statement, reminding their populations of the importance of keeping the good practices acquired during the COVID crisis. Because the health risk still exists, and no country is immune.
How to write a good international CV
Work
How to write a good international CV
The Curriculum Vitae or CV summarizes your professional experience and is your first contact with any company you apply to work for. While you might be aware of the rules when applying for a job in your own country, seeking a job abroad often involves a different process. So what are the things to consider when writing an international CV to impress your potential employer? Here are some tips.
Where is it more challenging to get a partner or spouse visa?
Visas
Where is it more challenging to get a ...
Expats who are in a relationship often want to bring their partner or spouse to the country where they are working. In some countries, this is a fairly straightforward process, but unfortunately, other countries have more stringent requirements like a minimum income threshold, age, or the number of years living together. Expats in same-sex relationships might also struggle to bring their partner to a country where same-sex marriage is not recognized.
How can international students avoid being exploited when working abroad?
Work
How can international students avoid being ...
Many international students work part-time to fund their studies and gain experience. They have to be aware of both their rights and responsibilities. They should not only avoid exceeding the maximum number of hours they're allowed to work and file their taxes, but they also need to be on guard against exploitative employers who can take advantage of their lack of familiarity with local labor laws.
Do expats earn more than locals? 
Work
Do expats earn more than locals? 
As globalization has brought the world closer together, the number of expats, or people living and working outside their home country, has been on the rise. For many people, working abroad can be a way to gain new experiences, improve language skills, and increase earning potential. However, the question of whether expats actually earn more than locals has been a topic of debate for years. 
What should expats consider before switching tax residency?
Tax
What should expats consider before switching ...
After a good few years of living in the same country, expats might consider becoming permanent residents. For some, it is the first step towards their end goal of citizenship. For others, it's simply a way to be able to get more opportunities or travel in and out of the country more easily. However, expats have to carefully consider the tax implications of being a resident.
How important is social media for expats?
Everyday life
How important is social media for expats?
Moving abroad is a major upheaval in a person's life. Many use social media not only to make the transition smoother and for better integration but also for work or to become an influencer. Whether it is for keeping in touch with friends and family, making new acquaintances locally, or making oneself known, this means of communication has helped many of us.
Productivity, job creation, wages: European countries with the most inequalities
Work
Productivity, job creation, wages: European ...
Did Russia's war with Ukraine wipe out the economic rebound? In 2021, OECD countries recovered from the health crisis faster than expected. A similar rebound was observed in other economies around the world, such as the United States, Australia, and China. In OECD countries, 66 million jobs have been created following post-Covid recovery. But since 2022, uncertainty has prevailed.

Other Types

Immigration update: Major policy shifts in the US, Canada, Europe, and beyond
Formalities
Immigration update: Major policy shifts in ...
Labor shortages and ongoing housing crises are heating up immigration policies. Should work permits be extended, or should there be a cap on the number of foreign nationals? It's a significant challenge for countries, with each one trying to introduce new policies to attract expatriates while combating rising living costs. Here's an overview of the latest changes.
A comprehensive guide to health insurance in Germany for newcomers
KLforExpats
A comprehensive guide to health insurance in ...
If you're planning to move to Germany, you've likely heard that Germany's healthcare system is one of the best in the world and is renowned for its efficiency, accessibility, and high standard of care. However, if you're new to Germany, understanding the nuances of its health insurance system can be confusing and complex - especially if you don't know the language!
Southeast Asia considers Schengen-inspired travel zone: What would this mean for expats?
Visas
Southeast Asia considers Schengen-inspired ...
As tourism industries continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, albeit slowly, Southeast Asian nations are exploring the implementation of a visa system modeled after the European Schengen Area. This initiative aims to revitalize tourism and stimulate economic growth across the region.
Singapore expat exodus: Rising costs push out foreign talent
Cost of living
Singapore expat exodus: Rising costs push ...
Singapore regularly tops the list of the most expensive cities in the world. In 2023, it tied with Zurich in first place among the most expensive cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The same year, a report by Mercer called Singapore the best city for expats in Asia. However, in recent years, Singapore has been experiencing a continuous exodus of expats. Even those who have called it home for a long time are starting to reconsider.
Multinational layoffs: What does this mean for international job seekers?
Work
Multinational layoffs: What does this ...
The tech world, already shaken in 2022-2023, is still in turmoil. As AI continues to develop, other sectors will come under the scrutiny of multinational corporations. What does this mean for aspiring expats? Should this be seen as a risk for international recruitment?
Boosting European education: EU's plan for a European diploma explained
Schools & studies
Boosting European education: EU's plan for a ...
To stand out on the international job market and further strengthen the position of the European Union, the European Commission announced the creation of a European diploma. What does this mean for potential international students in Europe?