Features
Everyday life
The journey of an expat is often filled with excitement, adventure, and opportunities for personal growth. However, amidst the allure of new experiences, there is an unspoken challenge that many expats face - the sense of not belonging. As they embark on this global odyssey, expats must grapple with a complex array of emotions and challenges, which include adapting to new cultures, languages, and social norms.
Work
Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy said that you need to work harder to earn more. The now-popular phrase came out for the first time in 2007 during his campaign for the presidential election. But does working extra hours really mean making more money? In what countries is paid overtime guaranteed? Here are some tips to get you prepared.
Work
You may think you found the dream job abroad, or you may just be contemplating an international career. Between the multiple job offers and recruitment websites available on the Internet, how can you be sure to apply for a company that really exists? What questions do you need to ask yourself to ensure you are working legally?
Everyday life
Embarking on an expat journey as a woman can be more challenging than for men. The level of safety and the stubbornness of patriarchal norms varies between countries. When women move abroad, they need to consider how this new country treats women and what gender norms reign in its corporate culture. Networking with both expat and local women can give them an emotional support system to navigate life there.
Work
Engineering is a profession that plays a critical role in shaping the world around us. From developing innovative technologies to building complex infrastructure, engineers are at the forefront of driving progress and development. However, in recent years, many countries have been experiencing labor shortages in the engineering sector, which has opened up opportunities for engineers to work abroad.
Tax
Which countries have the most favorable tax systems for expats? If tax evasion is a crime, tax optimization (which consists in using legal means to reduce taxes) is quite normal. Some countries offer a particularly advantageous tax system for expatriates. But do these advantages always mean saving money? Are there other forms of taxes?
Everyday life
When considering public holidays, all countries are not on the same page, and expats do not benefit from all of them in the same way. Between religious festivals, national days, commemorations, and lunar or solar calendars, let's explore the countries with the world's highest numbers of public holidays and see where expats can get the most out of these holidays.
Germany
The government of Germany has developed this new program in association with Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) bank to support homeowners concerned about the environment. Named the “Climate Friendly New Build", the credit plan grants credit facilities to owners buying or building a house. Let's have a closer look at it and how expats can benefit from it.
Oman
The Omani private sector is rubbing its hands. For the past year, expatriates over the age of 60 have been able to continue working in Oman, thanks to a circular from the country's Ministry of Labor, which lifted the age limit for expatriate workers. It's believed that senior professionals have not only the knowledge and technical skills but also the experience, patience and resilience that are essential for the smooth running of a business. But is this measure open to all? Under which conditions can one work after 60 years of age?
Work
Countries worldwide are facing labor shortages, and Europe is no exception. Unemployment rates are at historic lows, and job vacancies are at record highs. Companies are finding it hard to hire qualified employees. Besides increasing training among locals, skilled immigration seems to be the ideal solution. What are the programs set up by European Union countries to attract foreign talent, and what are their benefits?
Everyday life
International Women's Day, observed on March 8, was yet another opportunity for worldwide mobilization. Spain seized this opportunity to unveil its new bill that aims at accelerating parity at decision-making levels. But what about other countries? Which ones have laws and/or quota systems to promote the presence of women in decision-making instances? Are we moving towards a breakthrough in women's rights? What are the implications for expatriate women?
England
As reported by The Guardian, a recent study of the World Values Survey Wave found that among 24 countries, the UK's population has the most positive view of immigration. 71% of the British population doesn't think that locals should be prioritized over expats in hiring practices. At the same time, part of the UK government is keen on restricting immigration – a position that is in opposition to wider public opinion.
Work
Work-life balance may look different for different people — and different professions. But the basic definition of work-life balance refers to the state of equilibrium between one's personal and professional life, which is even more important for professionals moving abroad for a better life.
Everyday life
Considered the month of peace, serenity, sharing and good deeds, this year, Ramadan is starting on the night of Wednesday, March 22, or Thursday, March 23, depending on the countries where it is celebrated. The month of Ramadan is one of the pillars of Islam. Therefore, Muslim countries pay special attention to the rules surrounding this solemn period. So, what should expat in Muslim countries look out for during this important time of the Islamic calendar?
Germany
In early March, the German federal government officially introduced its new bill to attract international talent and, more importantly, to retain them in Germany. Because while they enjoy living in the country – especially students who love Germany – expats usually don't stay in the long run. Germany has a severe shortage of international talent. The country's growth is threatened by labor shortages and an aging population. But why don't foreigners settle in Germany permanently, and how can the government make the country more attractive?
Work
Being a doctor is currently one of the world's most sought-after and best-paid jobs. The healthcare sector worldwide is under pressure, and more and more countries have a growing need for adequate human resources in the medical field. The opportunities for foreign talent are many, but behind ambitious career plans lies a part of the destiny of entire nations. Let's take a closer look at the global situation.
Everyday life
The first months of the Covid pandemic raised much concern regarding global mobility. Yet, it survived and has even been reinforced. Countries affected by unparallel labor force shortages are fighting to attract foreign talent. The competition for attractiveness stretches from Japan to the UK, including Australia, Germany, Canada, and many other countries. Middle East countries are playing the family card to attract and retain foreign talent. Let's have a closer look at these measures.
Banks and finance
According to a recent survey by HSBC, 45% of people planning to relocate to a new country feel lost about managing their finances after the move. This is an understandable concern: banking, paying taxes and transferring money between countries can be complicated. Below, we will look into the details of the HSBC survey and suggest an effective action plan for managing finances when moving abroad.
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.
Open a bank account that suits you
Discover the best international banks to manage your money securely.
"