Features
Everyday life
Setting off on an international adventure usually brings thoughts of faraway lands and fascinating cultures to mind. However, the experience of moving to a distant corner of the world differs from relocating to a neighboring country, especially in Europe. Since the early days of the European Union, member states have worked diligently to simplify immigration within Europe. What are the benefits of moving to another European country as a European citizen? And what are the potential challenges?
Health system
Are you about to start a new life abroad? It means you are already working things out, mapping out important details before D-day. But did you think of getting a health check-up done? Unfortunately, prospective expats tend to neglect this aspect of their move amid administrative paperwork.
Everyday life
The Russian government recently took a significant step by introducing a bill in the parliament aimed at raising taxes for Russian citizens working abroad. The draft law, submitted to the State Duma, the lower house of Russia's parliament, proposes a notable tax rate increase for individuals outside Russia and subsequently losing their taxpayer status in the country.
Schools & studies
Since its release in late 2022, the artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot ChatGPT has generated a lot of controversy in academia. It has blurred the line between original research and plagiarism in a way universities are still grappling with. Many universities have explicitly banned ChatGPT in their plagiarism policies, but others remain ambivalent about its use. In addition, there is another layer of danger for international students – if accused of plagiarism, they can lose their student visa and the right to remain in the country.
Work
Can you take a break from your career overseas? The idea is gaining momentum, especially since the pandemic, which has been an eye-opener for many. This idea is being more formalized and realized by expatriates for whom professional life is part of a broader framework. The quest for a meaningful career is much discussed and debated. How important is it to take a break in your international career, and what are your options?
Work
In the past decade, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of young professionals seeking to live and work abroad. This trend is evidenced by the rise of digital nomads and international remote workers who have revolutionized the work organization. It is, therefore, worth exploring the motivations and evolving expectations of these young talents when they decide to leave their country of origin.
Everyday life
Born in Argentina, Vanessa has always been passionate about her Italian roots. This led her to Rome in 2015, the same year when she met the love of her life. In 2021, she decided to follow him to Barcelona, where they now enjoy a fulfilling expat life. Being a freelance translator, Vanessa shares her story of why she chose to move to Europe and all that comes with it.
Everyday life
Language barriers can be a concern when embarking on an expatriation project or considering a potential stay abroad. Which languages should you focus on when moving abroad, especially if you are going to work? Of course, learning the host country's language is always advisable, but how can you prepare if you are not sure about the host country? Are some languages more influential than others? Should you prioritize specific languages?
Everyday life
Moving abroad comes with a lot of surprises, good or bad, and sometimes unique discoveries when coming from a different culture than that of the host country. This leads many foreigners to film or photograph certain situations or places in their daily lives because "it's funny", and share it on social media. Unfortunately, this is sometimes a very (very) bad idea that can lead to a hefty fine. In this article, we look at the things an expat should avoid posting on social media.
England
The Coronation of the new King of England, Charles III, took place over three days and was celebrated throughout the United Kingdom. The festivities began with a ceremony in Westminster Abbey, which was broadcast worldwide on the internet and television, attracting an estimated 14 million viewers, according to the BBC. Every aspect of the event was meticulously planned to leave no stone unturned. How did expats in London experience the event? Some of them shared their thoughts with us.
Schools & studies
International students' mobility has been on the rise since the reopening of borders following the Covid-19 pandemic. China, one of the last countries to resume the delivery of all types of visas, is looking to enhance its image among international students. The benefits of studying abroad are many, such as discovering a new country and new cultures, learning a new language, acquiring new skills, making new friends, etc. But behind all those pluses lie many hardships that we cannot ignore. Work, accommodation and socialization are some of the challenges faced by international students.
Work
Rather than be a simple line on a CV, an internship abroad is a gateway to an international career. It also allows for more self-awareness and offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about a foreign country. The intern can thus discover a new language, entrepreneurial culture, and work organization and improve their knowledge and skills. What are the best countries for internships? Here are some tips and practical advice on maximizing your chances of obtaining an internship abroad.
Work
If you're looking to broaden your horizons by immersing yourself in different cultures and gaining work experience simultaneously, working abroad is an excellent option. Fortunately, there are plenty of overseas jobs available that do not require prior experience. These roles not only allow you to travel to new places but also improve your professional skills. By researching these job opportunities, you can narrow down your search and move closer to landing a job overseas.
Everyday life
Should you wear suits, jackets and ties, wide-legged jeans, slim-legged jeans, trousers, skirts, and dresses, with or without a plunging neckline, with or without printed patterns, with bright or more neutral colors? The matter of dressing in a foreign country is more important than one would have thought. The host country has its own culture and dress codes, which expats need to follow. How to dress outdoors or for work? Let's discover the appropriate dressing habits for expats to avoid any fashion faux pas.
Schools & studies
It is common knowledge that degrees in medicine, computer science, law and finance give international students high-paying jobs abroad. However, there are also other degrees/diplomas which can lead to great salaries. Culinary arts, nursing and paramedical professions, business combined with IT skills, and human resources are underrated specializations that can lead to fulfilling and high-paying careers.
Children
Moving abroad with a family can be a different challenge from moving abroad alone or as a childless couple. School, extracurricular activities, spaces to play, safety, allowances and child-friendly policies are all issues that these parents have to take into consideration. Some countries, such as Sweden and the Netherlands, have a reputation for being child-friendly expat destinations.
Everyday life
In 2023, the rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) persons can no longer be ignored by institutions. Sadly though, many countries still challenge their very existence, questioning their preferences and not respecting their well-being or even their life. In certain places, you can pay a hefty price for just being who you are, a price with fatal consequences in some cases.
Work
Remote working has become popular since the pandemic, but expat workers might still be unsure about how to request it. Are there labor laws that lay down rules for remote working? If you plan on working from abroad as an expat, what issues should both you and your employer take into consideration?
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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