Features
Leisure
When the first Christmas decorations appear in the streets, a familiar lump might form in your throat. This mix of nostalgia and excitement, with a dash of apprehension, is common among expatriates. How do you capture the holiday magic when you're thousands of miles from family? The answer is simpler than it seems, and there are plenty of ways to recreate the festive spirit.
Everyday life
Over the past 15 years, social media's expansion has birthed numerous new professions, notably content creators. These creators are a fixture across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Many have professionalized their content creation, becoming influencers for top brands or sharing their expertise. Others engage in content creation as a hobby, driven by passion and inspired by daily experiences.
Leisure
The holiday season is a magical time, evoking childhood memories with the comforting aromas of chocolate and roasted poultry. However, for expatriates, recreating these traditional dishes can be a challenge when ingredients like capon are scarce and chestnuts are unheard of at local markets. Fortunately, there are several clever ways to adapt and still enjoy the festive flavors of home.
Work
According to research by various international mobility management consulting firms, 75% of "trailing spouses" are women. While some secure employment overseas, 35 to 50% either do not resume working or begin professional reconversion. Moving abroad frequently serves as a period for professional contemplation. What motivates these women to pursue a new career path, and how do they navigate this transition?
Leisure
"Mom, does Santa know our new address too?" This is a common question among expat parents. For single-parent families living abroad, the holiday season adds another layer of complexity: creating a festive atmosphere and maintaining the magic of Christmas while juggling daily life on their own, far from familiar surroundings. Balancing everyday responsibilities with holiday preparations may seem daunting. Yet, this unique circumstance can also provide a beautiful chance to design personalized holidays and create lasting memories for the children.
Formalities
Retiring abroad is more popular than ever. But it's not all about warm climates and beach getaways. As it's becoming increasingly expensive to retire in the United States (and several other high-income countries), a lot of people are seeking other location options for a more relaxing and low-cost time off.
Everyday life
Have you ever felt that no matter how hard you try, you just can't integrate into the new culture? And even after living in the country for a long time, learning the culture, and speaking the language, do you still feel like an outsider? Unfortunately, this feeling is not uncommon among expats. But where does it come from? And why?
Everyday life
Food habits in a new country can be fascinating and sometimes challenging for expatriates. It's often the aspect of home that people miss the most when they move abroad. What are the surprises awaiting expatriates in terms of "exotic" dishes and local dining etiquette?
Visas
This past year has been pivotal, marked by significant elections, sweeping immigration reforms, persistent labor shortages, and evolving demographic trends. Additionally, we saw notable shifts in expatriation patterns. Let's delve into these major developments that shaped 2024.
Everyday life
In today's interconnected world, understanding the varying rhythms of life across countries is crucial, especially if you're considering moving abroad. Some nations are celebrated for their laid-back lifestyles, while others are famous for their fast-paced environments.
Everyday life
As the crackdown on drug trafficking ramps up, what steps are states taking to control drugs and alcohol? Since these substances are regulated differently, let's dive into how different places are handling them.
Work
Recent geopolitical events have underscored companies' precarious situations when sending employees abroad. Operating in high-risk countries presents unique challenges. How do companies manage international mobility under these conditions? How do they fulfill their responsibilities to ensure the safety and well-being of their workers?
Work
A study by RSM UK, a British accounting firm, reveals that 33% of companies permit their employees to work remotely from locations outside the United Kingdom. Despite this flexibility, many companies remain cautious due to the potential legal complexities involved. If you're considering working remotely from abroad, here are several essential tips to consider.
Everyday life
Montaigne viewed friendship as a profound union where "souls unite and merge so fully that the seam that once joined them vanishes." Although expats might not seek such intense bonds, forming lasting friendships, especially with locals, can deeply enhance the experience of living abroad. Yet, forging these connections can be challenging. Unseen cultural norms can complicate matters, although making friends doesn't typically demand strict etiquette. Still, what are the faux pas that should be avoided?
Everyday life
An increasing number of individuals are opting to retire abroad, drawn by lower living costs, favorable weather, and a change of pace. However, as they age and become more vulnerable, this dream retirement can sometimes lead to unexpected challenges. A recent testimony highlights the risks involved and underscores the need for careful planning.
Formalities
The justice system is increasingly detailed to enhance the protection of minors. To ensure peace of mind when traveling with your child, familiarize yourself with the relevant regulations in both your home country and the destination. Here are some practical tips.
Accommodation
Despite the global real estate downturn, property investment continues to be popular among expatriates. The enduring need for housing ensures its appeal, with the main question being the investment method. Should you build a custom home or opt for a ready-to-move in property?
Schools & studies
As signs of global inflation begin to wane, expatriate families still find their expenses climbing. The financial strain of educating children intensifies with higher living costs and tax increases due to government reforms. How can you secure a quality education for your children in this challenging financial landscape? What alternatives exist to traditional international schools?
Other Types
France
This quiet reform barely made a ripple in France's political debates, yet it slipped through largely unnoticed and will tighten the rules for those who combine work and retirement.
France
A decree published on April 25 in the Official Gazette updates the rules allowing foreign workers to apply for the European Card or register on the "list of jobseekers."
France
E-invoicing (and e-reporting) was previously voluntary. From September 1, 2026, it will become mandatory for businesses to issue and receive electronic invoices. So who exactly is affected?
United Arab Emirates
The UAE's Golden Visa program has been updated. The reform, focused on simplification, aims to further cement the United Arab Emirates' position as a top destination for foreign investors and entrepreneurs.
Formalities
A new fee for expats. Quietly slipped into the 2026 Finance Act, this measure has very real consequences for foreign drivers in their everyday lives. Starting May 12, exchanging a driver's license will no longer be free.
United Arab Emirates
The emirate of Dubai is rolling out a new strategy to keep attracting wealthy expats. A minimum investment is no longer required to qualify for a two-year residency visa.
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