What to Consider Before Becoming an Expatriate
Moving overseas for an extended period of time seems like a joy for many, but there are some complications that can turn this experience from sweet to sour. This is why you must be aware of all the facts before you become an expatriate, or an “expat” as these individuals are commonly known.
This post aims to outline what it is to be an expat as well as the four factors that individuals must consider before they finalize their decision. Such information is useful as it will prepare you for the choice and hopefully guide you towards the answer that best suits you and your needs.
What Does It Mean to Be an Expat?
The expatriate definition can be summed up as an individual living in a country other than their own, and this is most often because of work reasons. There are other reasons why someone would become an expat, such as for pursuing a higher education, seeking a better quality of life, or retiring.
Deciding to become an expat signifies a key life change, although the person must carefully plan their move and have an open mind to embrace their new life and environment.
Top Four Factors to Consider Before Becoming an Expat
If you are thinking about becoming an expatriate, then there are certain factors to consider before finalizing your decision. Four of the top factors have been outlined below to ensure you have adequate knowledge before undertaking this international move.
Building New Relationships
Leaving behind the social connections that you have built up at home can be a tough task, but making new ones in your hosting country can be overwhelming, too. This is often easier if you already have experience with the country you are moving to as you will likely have connections, which could be through business or pleasure.
Some of the best ways to begin integrating into the new country include joining expatriate forums online and participating in local clubs. A lot of the time, these scenarios will allow you to network with others who live nearby or having similar experiences to yourself. Although some of your new neighbors will avoid speaking with others, you should put in the effort to learn more about the area you now li in.
Paying for Healthcare
While some countries do offer free healthcare, like providing the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK, other countries’ healthcare systems do cause residents to opt for private healthcare. The quality of healthcare provided in your host country can vary, but selecting a comprehensive healthcare plan will give you high-quality care.
Before you become an expat, you should look into the available healthcare facilities and plans that can provide this service. You should also research the best dental care and emergency care services in your new area. This is especially importance if you suffer from a chronic condition, and it is definitely a must if you are moving abroad with the rest of your family, including young children who may need medical attention through their lives.
There are also other financial concerns to be aware of, such as paying the right amount of taxes and provisions towards childcare, education, housing, and more.
Working in a New Environment
If you have become an expatriate for career reasons, then you will definitely experience the unique approaches each country has for business. The Western approach can be a strange idea in some countries in regards to communication styles, decision-making processes, hierarchy, and social norms. This adjustment can be difficult for new expats, and you might begin to question if you have made the right choice.
However, it is essential that you give yourself time to adjust to these changes. There are a number of challenges that you might face during this time, but you can learn to adapt. If your employer is aware of your expatriation, then they should be involved, too. An employer should have open communication lines with employees based overseas to allow regular check-ins and address any issues they might be experiencing.
Expatriate employees should take proactive steps to protect their well-being when working abroad. They can do this by connecting with loved ones back home, maintaining an ideal work-life balance, and receiving support from those in the host country, such as colleagues and friends.
Adapting to a Different Culture
When you live in a different country, it can be difficult to adapt to a new culture. In fact, a study once found that roughly 40% of expats reported experiencing culture shock after moving to a new country. There are numerous ways to actively learn and adjust to the host country’s customs, social norms, traditions, and values, without losing your own cultural identity.
One of the simplest ways to deal with culture shock is to simply observe your new surroundings. You can do this by familiarizing yourself with the behaviours and routines of the new culture you are experiencing. It can be easy to fall into the habit of comparing these aspects to your home country, but this is not productive – it can actually hinder your integration. Instead, try to think about how these differences are positive and will improve your quality of life.
By considering the aspects mentioned in this post, it will be easier to decide whether the life of an expat is the right choice for you. This is a big life change, and you should not make this decision lightly.
