Expat news

Immigration update: Major policy shifts in the US, Canada, Europe, and beyond
Formalities
Immigration update: Major policy shifts in ...
Labor shortages and ongoing housing crises are heating up immigration policies. Should work permits be extended, or should there be a cap on the number of foreign nationals? It's a significant challenge for countries, with each one trying to introduce new policies to attract expatriates while combating rising living costs. Here's an overview of the latest changes.
Southeast Asia considers Schengen-inspired travel zone: What would this mean for expats?
Visas
Southeast Asia considers Schengen-inspired ...
As tourism industries continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, albeit slowly, Southeast Asian nations are exploring the implementation of a visa system modeled after the European Schengen Area. This initiative aims to revitalize tourism and stimulate economic growth across the region.
Singapore expat exodus: Rising costs push out foreign talent
Cost of living
Singapore expat exodus: Rising costs push ...
Singapore regularly tops the list of the most expensive cities in the world. In 2023, it tied with Zurich in first place among the most expensive cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The same year, a report by Mercer called Singapore the best city for expats in Asia. However, in recent years, Singapore has been experiencing a continuous exodus of expats. Even those who have called it home for a long time are starting to reconsider.
Multinational layoffs: What does this mean for international job seekers?
Work
Multinational layoffs: What does this ...
The tech world, already shaken in 2022-2023, is still in turmoil. As AI continues to develop, other sectors will come under the scrutiny of multinational corporations. What does this mean for aspiring expats? Should this be seen as a risk for international recruitment?
Boosting European education: EU's plan for a European diploma explained
Schools & studies
Boosting European education: EU's plan for a ...
To stand out on the international job market and further strengthen the position of the European Union, the European Commission announced the creation of a European diploma. What does this mean for potential international students in Europe?
Futuristic cities and Golden Visas await expats in Gulf states
Accommodation
Futuristic cities and Golden Visas await ...
Looking for a new real estate investment? Futuristic cities, artificial islands, and self-sustaining megacities await you as the Gulf States roll out the red carpet for wealthy expatriates. Competing with each other, they are embarking on mega-projects to attract foreign investors. Here's an overview.
Can you stay affiliated with your home country's health system?
Health system
Can you stay affiliated with your home ...
According to the current Italian prime minister, it could soon be possible for Italian expats to benefit from healthcare in Italy while living abroad. In fact, a bill proposed by the Fratelli d'Italia party aims to allow this against an annual contribution of 1,500 euros to the national health system (SSN). 
How do you prove your financial means when moving abroad?
Banks and finance
How do you prove your financial means when ...
If you're planning to move abroad, you're perhaps in the middle of the process of obtaining your visa and residency permit. One of the required documents is proof of financial means. Apart from the often exorbitant amount, how can you prove you have sufficient funds to live in your chosen country?
Happiness surveys: Can they really tell you where the happiest countries for expats are?
Everyday life
Happiness surveys: Can they really tell you ...
Happiness is a complicated matter. Philosophers have tried to define it, economists have tried to measure it, and expats, well, expats are trying to find it. Several surveys look at happiness from a geographical angle. Their goal is to determine whether location has an impact on your emotional well-being. And, as it turns out, it does. But the rest isn't that clear.
Immigration updates: Visa changes, Golden Visas and relocation news worldwide
Visas
Immigration updates: Visa changes, Golden ...
With the rising costs of moving abroad on the one hand and tougher or more flexible visa requirements on the other, global immigration policies are ever-changing. Here's an overview of the latest updates to help you plan your move.
Romania and Bulgaria enter Schengen zone: How does it affect expats?
Everyday life
Romania and Bulgaria enter Schengen zone: ...
The 27 European Union member countries voted on December 30, 2023, for the partial entry of Romania and Bulgaria in the Schengen area, effective from March 31. What does this mean for current and prospective expatriates?
India: A land of challenges for expats despite opportunities
India
India: A land of challenges for expats ...
The G20 summit in September 2023 might not have resulted in significant announcements, but it provided India, as the host country and G20 president at the time, with an opportunity to showcase its prestige to the world. Foreign heads of state were welcomed with the red carpet treatment, even if it required hastily constructing new infrastructure to conceal slums. The goal was to lavish guests with hospitality to attract more business leaders and foster additional partnerships. Will this be enough to attract and retain foreign talent?
Is your dream of studying abroad still possible in 2024?
Schools & studies
Is your dream of studying abroad still ...
Amidst economic downturns, inflation crises, political tensions, wars, immigration policy changes, and restricted student quotas, some argue that 2024 isn't notably worse than past years. Yet, we've experienced better times. However, should prospective international students review their plans to study abroad?
International pet relocation costs: Up to 400% increase in some countries
Pets
International pet relocation costs: Up to ...
Bringing your pets along during your travels has always been cumbersome, requiring more planning, more paperwork, and considerable fees. With international pet relocation fees skyrocketing in various countries, expatriates have to rethink their plans. Here's what you need to know about the cost of moving abroad with pets.
Immigration news: The latest changes across the world
Formalities
Immigration news: The latest changes across ...
Several countries are grappling with labor shortages and are adapting their immigration policies accordingly. There's a high demand for skilled workers, although they may face challenges due to policies aimed at prioritizing national employment. Balancing the encouragement of local employment with promoting international mobility poses a significant challenge for governments. 
Foreign bank accounts and taxes: Can they find you in 2024?
Tax
Foreign bank accounts and taxes: Can they ...
Combating international tax fraud remains a work in progress. Although far from complete, governments are pleased to note significant advancements since cooperation was bolstered. Tax authorities find an unexpected ally in their efforts to monitor foreign bank accounts: social media.
H-1B visa updates: New work authorization, Green Cards, and fee hikes
USA
H-1B visa updates: New work authorization ...
Major changes are on the horizon for the widely-used H-1B visa, with potential impacts on other visa categories. Additionally, significant hikes in visa fees are expected, posing a substantial consideration for those planning to relocate to the United States. Here's what you need to know.
Americans are saying goodbye to the US: Where are they going?
Everyday life
Americans are saying goodbye to the US: ...
Recent studies show that more Americans are moving abroad than ever before. The United Kingdom is challenging Canada as the most popular English-speaking destination, while the United States' other neighbor, Mexico, remains the second most preferred destination. New Zealand is also increasingly popular. Better life-work balance and a lower cost of living are the leading reasons for moving abroad.

Other Types

How the 2024 Paris Olympics will impact expat life in France
France
How the 2024 Paris Olympics will impact ...
With less than three months until the start of the Paris Olympics, expatriates are feeling a mix of excitement and concern, especially those currently living in the capital or planning to move there during this period. The media predictions are unanimous: the event will affect the daily lives of all residents. But what will the actual impact be, and how can one prepare?
How to plan your move abroad as a single parent with kids
Children
How to plan your move abroad as a single ...
Your thoughts about moving abroad are becoming more frequent, but balancing the needs of your children, your family, and yourself is challenging. Embarking on expatriation alone is daunting. How can you manage it as a single parent?
Can you work abroad with disabilities?
Work
Can you work abroad with disabilities?
Yes, it is indeed possible to work abroad with a disability, and yes, there are obstacles, whether the disability is visible or not. However, these barriers do not jeopardize the expatriation plan—far from it. Here are some practical tips for moving abroad with a disability.
How to buy and renovate a home abroad without overspending
Accommodation
How to buy and renovate a home abroad ...
You've fallen in love with a home that's incredibly affordable but needs renovation. As an adventurous expat, you're brimming with ideas to turn a modest house into a mini-castle. But what should you consider in this type of negotiation? How can you ensure your dream doesn't turn into a costly nightmare?
Inflation: Why more people are moving abroad
Cost of living
Inflation: Why more people are moving abroad
Moving abroad for a better life abroad isn't a new idea, but its popularity is surging as global economies struggle with persistent inflation. Economic recessions compel more people to contemplate relocation abroad, highlighting a more significant phenomenon than it may initially appear.
Living abroad: The truth behind 'I'm an expat, of course...' clichés
Everyday life
Living abroad: The truth ...
You've likely seen this trend on platforms like TikTok or Instagram. These punchy, satirical videos challenge users to portray exaggerated aspects of their personality, their activities, or the most stereotypical elements of a particular theme. At Expat.com, we've joined the fun by sharing a series on our Instagram. Plus, we're unpacking the common stereotypes associated with expat living.