Features
Everyday life
One of the world's most attractive expat destinations, especially for foreign professionals and investors, the United Arab Emirates recently amended some of their laws in light of the Dubai Expo which has been postponed to next year due to the global health crisis. What are these changes, and how will they affect the lives of expats?
Everyday life
With more than 12 million infections and more than 300,000 deaths, and a second wave that seems to be accelerating, many European countries went back into lockdown in recent weeks. Some of these countries are France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, as well as Greece. We have asked a few expats how they feel about the current lockdown.
Schools & studies
On October 2, 2020, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that homeschooling would no longer be allowed in France from the start of the 2021 school year, except for medical reasons. Many families have been protesting against this decision, taking into account the fact that today more than 50,000 children are homeschooled. While in many countries, such as Germany, homeschooling is prohibited, it is legal in some countries and subject to conditions in others.
Moving
Haven't you ever thought of leaving everything behind to relocate to a remote island? With the global health crisis and current travel restrictions in many countries, it might now be the time to make your dream come true. A couple of exotic destinations, such as Mauritius, are launching new visas to attract expats, thus trying to boost their economy.
Leisure
If you're about to relocate to a new city, you're probably wondering how you'll get around every day. Not everyone likes taking the bus or the metro daily, whether for the work commute, grocery shopping or leisure. Having a car may not be the ideal solution in your new city. To help you make the best choice, here is an overview of the world's best cities for walking or cycling.
Cost of living
If you're looking to move abroad, but you don't have the budget, don't panic. Some countries do offer the possibility of enjoying an excellent quality of life along with a low cost of living. So here are some tips for living overseas for cheap from Jerry Nelson, a US expat blogger living in Argentina.
Everyday life
It can take several days or weeks before the new US president is proclaimed, but Democrat candidate Joe Biden seems to be on his way to the White House. This Thursday, November 5, he had already won 264 electoral votes against 214 for Donald Trump. However, it's still possible that the candidate with the most public votes isn't declared the winner. Especially since Donald Trump is challenging the results. Expats around the world tell us how they feel about this election.
Banks and finance
Most expats move to Europe for better career prospects and higher living standards. However, it's not always easy to find a job and a salary that meets your expectations. Rent, cost of living, etc., are some of the factors to take into account. So if you wish to thrive and enjoy a better quality of life, which cities should you consider?
Moving
According to a recent study by the Environics Institute, an Ottawa-based research centre, one in five Canadians believe that the presence of expats makes Canada a better country. For them, expats are not a threat to the local economy and labour market. What makes them feel so? Also, how do countries worldwide benefit from the presence of expats?
Visas
The US Green Card Lottery program is coming to an end. Potential candidates have until November 10, 2020, to apply for their green card for 2022. Meanwhile, the lucky winners for the 2021 tax year were announced in September. What is it about and which countries offer this type of resident permit to expats?
Work
Since the early days of the global health crisis, many companies have switched to remote work. This does have a considerable impact on both careers and the mental health and well-being of employees. What about professionals who are looking to work abroad after the crisis?
USA
Presidential elections in the United States are already well underway. In the political debate, an important issue, immigration policy, a dossier in which the two candidates have very different positions. Once in the Oval Office, the future president will be able to promote initiatives in this area. How can they affect those who want to live in the United States? How about those who already live there?
Formalities
You might be looking for a more powerful passport to be able to travel more easily or it might just be that the pandemic has prompted you to consider a secondary residence. While many countries offer citizenship by investment, it's still possible to get a secondary passport for free. Here are some tips for getting a second passport from Jerry Nelson, a US expat blogger in Argentina.
Leisure
Finding better quality of life and the possibility of discovering new cultures are very often the things that motivate people to move abroad. So where will you get the best cultural experience as an expat? Have a look at the world's most culturally rich cities.
Everyday life
Unless you're moving abroad for a job, you have to decide on where you want to settle? A smaller town or village, a city, the capital city? While living in little towns and villages definitely has its perks, here is why you should consider your host country's capital city.
Tax
Taxes are never fun. So if you want to move abroad, but you're not sure where to yet, you might want to consider tax systems. Here's an overview of the best tax systems around the world according to a study by Tax Foundation.
Everyday life
The COVID-19 crisis had a significant impact on global mobility through the slowdown of commercial flights. Many Latin American countries have also implemented strict entry restrictions while others prefered to close their airports, thus prohibiting international flights until further notice. Here's an update of the current situation in Latin America.
Work
One of the top destinations for working abroad, Dubai recently announced the new Remote Working Visa, which is being managed by Dubai Tourism. This visa is intended for foreign professionals who would like to stay at least one year in the emirate without having to leave their job in their respective home countries.
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.
"