Features
Visas
Some governments are increasingly tightening their migration policies, and at the same time, their respective economies are facing labor shortages. These shortfalls have reached global proportions and are threatening economic growth, becoming alarming for some countries. Others are opting for a broader opening to skilled foreigners, considered essential engines of prosperity.
Formalities
Have you decided to take the leap of faith and are getting married? Congratulations! Of course, a wedding is always a wonderful life event, but as far as the planning is concerned, especially when you are an expatriate, it doesn't always go as smoothly as one may want. Depending on the country where you are currently living, you might encounter more or less daunting challenges and unforeseen obstacles along the way. But don't panic! Proper planning will avoid disappointments.
Everyday life
When you have been living abroad for years, and you are fully integrated into your new country, it can be difficult to stay in touch with your native culture. As the years go by, you become more and more detached from the current events in your country of origin, you watch fewer and fewer films or series produced there, you see less and less of your compatriots, and sometimes you barely speak your native language. So, what can you do to avoid searching for words in your native language and feeling completely disconnected from your former life?
Visas
Multiple countries on all continents offer residence permits to retirees who have a secure source of passive income from abroad. A retirement visa allows elderly expats to enjoy the country's lifestyle and boost its economy as consumers without putting pressure on its public services.
Everyday life
In late November, Qatar is set to become the smallest country to ever host the FIFA World Cup. This exciting sporting event is being marred by international boycotts over the treatment of workers who built the World Cup facilities. The event is also affecting accommodation prices, visa issuance, and the school calendar for expat families.
Work
Immigrants tend to bear the brunt of economic downturns. The health and economic crises have led to fundamental questions about the expats' place in the local workforce. In 2020, some even bet on the end of global mobility as we know it. Others pointed out the positive impact a decrease in immigration would have on the employment of young locals. But are expats really a threat to the employment of young people?
Work
Let's say you have recently been hired abroad, or you have been promoted, changed department, changed supervisors... And that everything was going fine until the day tensions began to flare between you and your supervisor. Ever since then, every day brought its share of disagreements. Either that, or they would break out without warning, at the turn of a meeting, or because of some misunderstanding or misinterpretation.
Everyday life
The Netherlands' population grew by over 250,000 in 2021, and this trend might be set to persist due to a rising number of non-EU immigrants. However, the Dutch government is looking to temporarily curb immigration, especially among asylum seekers, because it puts unsustainable pressure on this small country with limited housing.
Accommodation
Studying abroad involves many formalities, such as applying for a student visa, taking language tests, opening an overseas bank account, and, very importantly, finding a place to stay. Students can choose between on-campus student residences provided by the university and off-campus options – a single or shared apartment, a homestay, or a private hall of residence. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
Visas
Some countries have a special family reunification visa that allows elderly parents and grandparents to come live with their children, who are citizens or residents, usually under the condition that the parent/grandparent will be financially taken care of by the family and will not rely on public services. Which countries have this type of visa?
Work
When you start working in a new country, you should expect the workplace culture and labor laws to be different from those in your home country. Of course, this includes laws concerning paid sick leaves. Some countries, notably Low and Scandinavian countries, have very excellent national sick leave allowances. Meanwhile, other countries, like the United States and India, leave this issue to be determined by employer-employee negotiations and individual work contracts.
Children
Are you tempted by a big adventure abroad with your family? How to be prepared and make your kids feel prepared? Your kids' age, their interests, visas, their education abroad, etc., are some of the key issues you need to consider carefully. Here are a few pointers.
Work
Building your career in the country where you studied is a bit like finding a job in the company where you did your internship: it is easier, there are more advantages, and you are already integrated... In this article, we will review the concrete benefits of staying and working in the country where you studied.
Visas
Since the pandemic, embassies are overwhelmed. As a result, formalities are taking more time, and people must often be very patient. That's especially the case in some countries, where obtaining a visa is a real obstacle course. Which countries have the longest delays in granting visas or visa interviews? How does this affect moving abroad plans?
Everyday life
Adjusting to life abroad means adapting to not only a new culture but also to a new natural environment, including its risks. How should you prepare yourself when you move to a country which often experiences natural disasters? Where to look for information and help in case disaster strikes?
Work
With the end of the pandemic in sight, countries compete to attract qualified foreigners. Canada stands out as a favorite expat destination and keeps on highlighting its immigration policies. Other countries follow suit, with new visas and policies targeting foreign talent. So why are countries focusing on selective immigration, and how does it help economies?
Banks and finance
Economic uncertainties are driving more and more expats to invest abroad. How to manage your money? Which bank to choose? What are the best investments for expats?
Everyday life
Rising inflation, the Ukraine war, not to mention other wars and conflicts which aren't in the limelight of international media, have been affecting energy costs over the past months. Is it still safe to plan a move abroad under these conditions? How are expatriates affected by such rises?
Other Types
Formalities
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.
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KLforExpats
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!
Visas
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.
Cost of living
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.
Work
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?
Schools & studies
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?
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