Features
Everyday life
When you think of your expat life abroad, it's very likely that your mind is filled with images of your destination's biggest and most vibrant cities — New York City for the USA, London for England, Tokyo for Japan. However, if your expat adventure is about to start small, Expat.com is presenting you with the pros of living in a small city while abroad.
Everyday life
Devoting yourself to others voluntarily – be it your time or money – can have a significantly positive impact on a community as much as on you, whether you're abroad or in your home country. But what is the global giving trend? Expat.com takes a look into the world's most generous countries according to the CAF World Giving Index 2017.
Everyday life
Some of the most well-prepared expats may begin the process of learning the language of their destination well in advance of leaving for their new life abroad, but, for the rest of us, it can be hard to find the time while preparing for a big move. If you are not already fluent or knowledgeable of the language spoken in the host country you have moved to, there are many things you can do to help you pick it up as quickly as possible.
Everyday life
Moving back home isn't as easy as it seems, especially if you've been away for a couple of years or more. People who repatriate are often likely to feel different – and even uncomfortable with many social aspects of their home country. Virginie, a French expat who had been living in Turkey, talks to Expat.com about the reverse culture shock she experienced when moving back to Paris, and gives out some tips on how to cope with it.
Schools & studies
When you started your expatriation project, no one said it would be easy (but you knew it would be rewarding) — and when the rest of the family is joining in, there are more things to consider and take care of. While there are many childcare and schooling options abroad for all levels and curriculums, the adjustment period of your children first, in a foreign country, and second, in a new school might be challenging. Expat.com has put together some pieces of advice for the parents who are about to begin their expat adventurous with children at school age.
Everyday life
Being cool is a lifestyle, or so they say. From the hottest eateries to bars serving up the edgiest cocktails, there are some neighbourhoods that are leading the way in 'cool'. So, if you're after the most edgy or forward-thinking neighbourhoods, Lonely Planet has come up with a list of the places you should be looking to.
Everyday life
Religious freedom is a crucial point to consider when planning your move abroad. Regardless of your country of origin, you are probably wondering whether you will be able to express your religious beliefs – and even practice your religion – in your new home without any restriction. Expat.com brings you an overview of the countries with the most and least religious freedom according to the Religious Freedom Report 2017.
Everyday life
Being an adult comes with a ton of responsibilities, which can result in certain levels of stress and anxiety. How many of these worries aren't we battling day-to-day — Questions like, do I perform well at work, is my family safe, or will I ever have enough savings to do the things I want? To occasionally receive controlled signals of stress, as a response to a particular pressure is normal, and can be motivating and productive. However, it's chronic stress that wears away at us, puts our health at risk, and takes away hope.
Everyday life
Your quest for a better life abroad will undoubtedly be based on many factors, and, unless you are moving as part of a humanitarian mission, safety and security will likely be a significant one. Where is the most peaceful place to live? Expat.com unveils the most peaceful countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index 2017.
Work
To master the lifestyle of a digital nomad and make the most of the freedom it offers, you might need to brush up on some skills that may not have been so important in your nine-to-five. Once you have a good command of these essential skills, you will be in the best position to make the most of the different destinations you'll travel to.
Work
Moving abroad for work can be a challenging experience. Even if you are excited about the prospect of adventure, you should bear in mind what is involved in expatriating to another country for your career. We have some advice on making your professional expatriation a success.
Banks and finance
If you are banking or have credit or debit cards connected to accounts in a country which you do not currently inhabit, banking fraud poses a greater challenge. Whether you are viewed as a target because you are a foreigner who is likely unfamiliar with the country, or whether your bank doesn't have a presence in the country of residence, there are risks associated with taking out money and using cards linked to international banks. How can you stay safe?
Work
Moving abroad can be a real challenge depending on your next destination. Whatever the reason behind your move is – whether you're looking for a new career or business prospects, or simply for better living standards – the world's fastest growing cities can be good options to consider. Expat.com gives you an insight into the most promising cities according to the Global Cities 2030 Study by Oxford Economics.
Everyday life
If you have chosen to live abroad, you're probably looking for new career prospects, a better quality of life and an affordable cost of living. But where are you likely to achieve a greater social fulfillment? Expat.com gives you an insight into the best countries for social progress.
Ireland
There is so much to enjoy in the Emerald Island – from the cliffs and the castles, to the monuments and the museums. However, what will probably fascinate you the most is Irish's special bond with sports and their enthusiam about sports events. The Irish are particularly passionate about rugby, Gaelic football and the MMA – so much that they never miss an opportunity to hang out in the pub while watching matches and competitions.
Formalities
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.
Leisure
If you are considering moving abroad as a woman alone, it, unfortunately, remains the case that some countries are certainly safer than others. Be it due to societal norms or levels of crime against women, certain countries can be more dangerous for a woman travelling by herself. Here are some of the safest destinations for female solo travellers.
Transport
Many countries and major cities have efficient public transport systems. However, this is not always the case, and frequent transport service disruptions can lead many to look for alternative options. Some prefer the reliability and experience of a taxi, which as it turns out is more affordable in some countries than others. Uber has come to dominate the taxi market, though surge pricing and its non-presence in certain jurisdictions means that you may have to rely on the local taxi service. But how much will it cost you?
Other Types
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If you've been searching for a stable, profitable, and strategically located country to grow your business or diversify your investment portfolio, Panama should be at the very top of your list. Panama is not just a country with a famous canal. It is one of the fastest-growing economies in Latin America, a regional financial hub, and a proven gateway for companies looking to expand across North and South America. With a dollarized economy, a territorial tax system, world-class logistics infrastructure, and investor-friendly immigration policies, Panama offers a unique combination of advantages that few countries in the world can match.
Everyday life
Moving abroad is often associated with adventure, discovery, and new opportunities. While it can be a deeply enriching experience, there is often a less visible reality behind the excitement of starting a new life abroad: exhaustion. In my consultations, expats sometimes describe a fatigue that never seems to lift, unusual irritability, a sense of disconnection, or the feeling that they are no longer quite themselves. What I have also observed is that this distress is rarely confined to one person. In expat families, when one parent begins to struggle, the entire family often has to adapt. Partners may feel isolated or lose their sense of direction, while children can pick up on their parents' stress, worries, or emotional fatigue, even when these feelings are never openly discussed.
New Zealand
Since June 1, foreign workers seeking certain work visas in New Zealand have been subject to new English language requirements. The government says the changes are intended to improve migrant integration and help prevent workplace exploitation.
Sweden
Since June 1, Sweden has tightened its work permit regulations. The new rules introduce higher salary requirements, stricter conditions for seasonal workers, mandatory health insurance in some cases, and increased scrutiny of employers.
Belgium
Belgium's latest reforms, which took effect on June 1, bring greater flexibility to the labor market in an effort to support job creation. At the same time, the government has introduced stricter requirements for non-European students.
United Arab Emirates
Foreign residents in the United Arab Emirates should take note: under UAE regulations, residence visas are generally canceled if the holder remains outside the country for more than 180 consecutive days. In most cases, affected residents must apply for a new visa before returning. However, several categories of expatriates are exempt from this rule and can retain their residency status despite an extended stay abroad.
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