Formalities - Expat Magazine

What to look out for when buying property overseas
What to look out for when buying property overseas
Buying property abroad as an expat can require more research, and may involve more risks than buying in your home country. You should start planning the purchase well in advance, do some research on formalities such as visa requirements for buyers and mortgage conditions, and get expert advice when necessary. Expat.com has put together a guide to finding and buying the right property for you, whether it's an investment solution, a holiday home, or a permanent residence.
11 steps to finding a job abroad
11 steps to finding a job abroad
International employees are usually assigned to manage a project abroad by their company back home, and this is how they find themselves undertaking the adventurous journey of expatriation. However, if you have decided to become a self-initiated expatriate because you wish to boost your career, gain new life experiences, or start over again in a whole new country, read below to find out how to create a game plan for your overseas employment.
How to make your internship abroad a success
How to make your internship abroad a success
Doing an internship abroad is often associated with some kind of stress regarding everything that's new, especially when you're moving for the first time in your life. However, adequate planning can turn this professional experience into one of the most amazing adventures of your life. To guide you, here are some tips for making your internship abroad a success.
Finding happiness in Spain
Spain
Finding happiness in Spain
Born in Rome, Valeria is an Italian teacher who has been looking for professional experience abroad. Her passion about the Spanish language and culture lead her to Madrid where she set up her own language school with students from all around the world. Valeria talks about her exciting expat experience to Expat.com and everything that makes her feel at home.
The most compelling reasons you should move to Germany now
Germany
The most compelling reasons you should move to Germany now
Are you trying to decide on your next expat destination as a digital nomad? Or have you just been offered a job in Germany, and you wish to know more about your future host country? Germany is split into 16 federal states, each of which has its policies and laws regarding education and culture. Europe's largest economy is a major exporter of heavy equipment, vehicles, and chemicals, and has a highly-skilled labour force. Despite the low fertility rates and increase in immigration, Germany can still afford a generous social welfare. Expat.com shares the top reasons you should move to the country of Goethe, Bach, and Beethoven.
The active lifestyle of an expat family in Finland
Finland
The active lifestyle of an expat family in Finland
Paola, a wife and mother of two, lives and works in the tech sector in the capital area of Finland. Besides her full-time job, which she loves, Paola is a dedicated blogger. Today, she talks to Expat.com about her expat life as an Italian in the Nordic world, and her appreciation about Finland's natural beauty, as well as the country's socioeconomic security — aspects which nurture a happy family life.
What are UK's perceptions of immigration?
What are UK's perceptions of immigration?
The annual Aurora Humanitarian Index is based on the survey of about 11,000 people in 12 countries (France, Germany, United Kingdom, United States, Argentina, Japan, Kenya, etc.), and their perceptions of global humanitarian issues such as immigration. From those surveyed, 1,053 are British, whose answers show an increasing sympathy towards refugees and immigrants, as well as apparent disagreement with their government regarding the lack of support and legalisation of immigrants.
Designing a pretty life: From Guatemala to Finland
Finland
Designing a pretty life: From Guatemala to Finland
Omar is from Guatemala and arrived in Finland eleven years ago as the singer in a heavy metal band. Ever since, many things have changed — the group split up, Omar obtained the Finnish nationality, and he has created a loving family. Follow us on this exciting journey of a designer, musician, and avid traveller from Guatemala to Finland. 
Where are you in the nationality lottery?
Where are you in the nationality lottery?
We don't choose our place of birth, and our nationality shouldn't be linked to our achievements, growth, and personal value. However, the Quality of Nationality Index by Henley & Partners has set some objective criteria to compare nationalities and measure their local and global performance.  Find out to what extent your nationality allows you to develop your talents inside and outside of your country.
April's expat blog: Adventures With Pete
New Zealand
April's expat blog: Adventures With Pete
We are happy to announce our April's Blog of The Month, Adventures With Pete by Eve Brickner, a twenty-something American expat in New Zealand. In 2013, Eve met her fiancé, and ever since they have been together on a journey of adventures. However, the biggest of all is living in New Zealand, and Eve blogs about the ups and downs, and the lessons learned throughout.
New Orleans: Where a French expat finds enthusiasm for life
USA
New Orleans: Where a French expat finds enthusiasm for life
Céline, a French expat in New Orleans, Louisiana, has a rewarding job and leads a full life in this historic city of jazz music and swing. She loves cycling to work, seafood gumbo, and the friendliness of the people. Follow her unique expat story in New Orleans as we unfold it, and learn more about this expat destination from someone who found home away from home in it.
The top 5 Greek villages for retirement
The top 5 Greek villages for retirement
European countries such as Spain, Portugal, and Malta are popular among pensioners, though many are unable to afford to retire there. Greece, however, offers a similar quality of life at a lower cost.
Adventures of an American in Bogotá
Colombia
Adventures of an American in Bogotá
Sarah is originally from Maine but spent five years in New York City, where she met her Colombian husband. They decided to move together to Bogotá pending his green card approval. Fascinated by the Colombian culture, especially the music and dance as well as the hiking opportunities, Sarah talks to Expat.com about her everyday life enjoying a pleasant family-oriented lifestyle and unique cuisine.
10 most gay-friendly countries
10 most gay-friendly countries
Moving abroad can be a complicated decision to take for LGBT expats. Some countries – especially those in Europe and North America – may be more welcoming and tolerant than others regarding LGBT rights. To help you choose your next destination, Expat.com gives you an insight into some of the world's most gay-friendly countries.
A step away from Hollywood: Film student in Los Angeles
USA
A step away from Hollywood: Film student in Los Angeles
Lisa originally comes from Charente Maritime, France. In her quest for new horizons, she moved to New Zealand where she spent six months before moving back to France. A few months later, she decided to move to the USA for her studies and better career prospects. Passionate about cinematography, she is now living her dream in Los Angeles and shares her enthusiasm with Expat.com.
Where to move for a fulfilling retirement
Where to move for a fulfilling retirement
Retiring abroad is a growing trend among expatriates who – after a long and successful career – feel the need for change. While it can seem to be a challenge for some, it can also be a great opportunity to enjoy better conditions and quality of life. Expat.com gives you an insight into the best countries for a fulfilling retirement.
A specialist's insight into emerging markets
A specialist's insight into emerging markets
Emerging markets represent a real potential for entrepreneurs and investors wishing to expand their activities abroad. However, venturing into an emerging market can be as risky as it is advantageous. Ian Herbison, CEO of Speyside, a consultant and emerging market specialist, talks to Expat.com about the strengths and weaknesses of key emerging markets.
How to be a successful leader in an emerging market
How to be a successful leader in an emerging market
Business leaders are looking to emerging markets as the next frontier, with a wealth of potential and opportunity to take their business to the next level. However, to do so is no easy feat, and requires leaders to be, at their heart, highly adaptable. There will be new challenges that haven't been encountered before, with solutions that are likely different to those that have been previously applied to the more developed territories.