Features
Work
Labeled "digital natives" or Generation Z, these young individuals born from the late 1990s to the early 2010s represent the emerging and future workforce. Often perceived as "less prepared" professionally and more "volatile" compared to their predecessors, it raises the question: is it a myth or reality? What are the professional aspirations of this generation, and how can international employers adequately equip them for the challenges of roles overseas?
Everyday life
When you are moving abroad for your career, your family will be those coming along. This typically puts them in a somewhat vulnerable position – as they are moving to a new location where nothing awaits them. And while the move may be a great thing for your career, the transition you will be making affects everyone.
Everyday life
According to a recent study by the French health insurance system, between 50 and 80% of women experience the baby blues. This emotional instability, marked by anxiety, sadness, and irritability, is a normal part of postpartum adjustment but may be particularly intense for expatriate mothers isolated from their usual support networks. Fortunately, many countries provide postnatal care options, including programs specifically designed for expatriates.
Visas
Many countries are keen on attracting and retaining young talent as they grapple with workforce challenges and an aging population. A primary focus is on international students who already possess experience within the country and are seen as a valuable long-term workforce due to their qualifications and age. Which countries are enacting specific policies to retain these young talents?
Leisure
As the year gradually ends, the evenings burst into a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors. Across different nations, the Festival of Lights illuminates the darkness, lifting spirits and rejuvenating the night. The celebration of Diwali kicks off this week, and we'll explore more festivals that foster joy and community.
Work
Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned employee in a foreign country, it's natural to want to prove your worth. Demonstrating adaptability and readiness to tackle new challenges is commendable. However, when this drive morphs into a pursuit of perfectionism, it's important to recognize it as a potential issue.
Work
The days when a resume was the sole focus of a recruitment process are long gone. In today's job market, it is increasingly common for potential employers to scrutinize your social media presence, examining it alongside your resume to gather more insights about you—sometimes to your advantage. How can you effectively utilize social media without jeopardizing your prospects when seeking employment overseas?
Everyday life
It was widely believed that expatriation would decrease at the pandemic's beginning. Contrary to these expectations, there has been a resurgence. Expatriates are now more focused on integrating into their host countries, seeking to reduce the perception that they are outsiders. How do they adapt to the culture of a foreign country? Are they encountering more challenges than before?
Leisure
It's that time of year again! Airlines and railways have kicked off their marketing campaigns, offering attractive rates for end-of-year vacations. To secure the best prices and ensure availability, now is the ideal time to book your travel. Many expats choose this period to return to their home countries for the end-of-year holidays, while others explore new destinations within their host country or venture abroad. Being organized and prepared is key whether you're working or have some free time. Here is a practical guide to help you efficiently plan your end-of-year holidays.
Everyday life
While climate change might not be the primary consideration for those contemplating a move abroad, it undeniably influences life in a foreign country. Today, the impact of human activities on the environment is too significant to overlook. But how does one navigate daily life amid frequent disruptions caused by extreme weather? This is the challenge that expatriates are faced with, experiencing the escalating effects of rising temperatures alongside local residents.
Leisure
Looking to travel the world as an expat? Many have successfully navigated this path. Contrary to popular belief, it is entirely possible to juggle a career abroad while discovering the wonders of your host country. Below, find some practical tips to guide you.
Visas
The development of e-visas and transnational programs aiming to eliminate borders suggests a future where the world might be entirely open. The Schengen model, which allows for ease of travel among participating countries, is gaining traction globally. However, for a truly borderless world to exist, it must include all citizens. Can a world without borders coexist with increasingly restrictive norms?
Work
If you are interested in a career in the environmental field, your timing is perfect. According to the World Economic Forum, "green jobs are growing twice as fast as the number of available candidates with the necessary skills". But how do you go about job hunting in the green sector? And what if you want to find a green job abroad?
Everyday life
We are all guilty of being glued to our phones and laptops all day (sometimes even night!). For expats, who have to keep track of the news in two countries and keep in touch with loved ones abroad, the temptation to remain chronically online is even stronger. Every now and then, a "digital detox" can do wonders for your mental health. But how can you take a break from the digital world?
Formalities
Retiring abroad may be a dream for many. But it's definitely not without its challenges. And quite often, it's the financial challenges that take center stage. And these can be further complicated if you run into something unexpected, such as having your pension frozen.
Work
Living abroad is a dream for many and a reality for expatriates who have embraced the adventure. But does pursuing an international career always equate to "indefinite expatriation"? Is it essential to continuously live overseas or travel the world to be recognized as a global professional? What are the considerations for those contemplating a return to a company in their home country?
Accommodation
The global real estate crisis has evolved into a housing crisis. In countries like Canada, the United States, France, China, Portugal, and Italy, emergency measures are now entwined with political pledges, making it difficult for investors to plan for the long term. Real estate professionals are directing them towards a lesser-known option: investing in bare ownership. Which countries favor this type of investment? How does it help in addressing the housing crisis?
Banks and finance
For expatriates, the impact of receiving an income in a currency that is weaker or stronger than the local currency can significantly influence purchasing power. Over time, this disparity can even threaten the viability of the move itself. This article provides practical case studies and advice to help mitigate risks and minimize financial losses.
Other Types
Everyday life
Moving abroad is often associated with adventure, discovery, and new opportunities. While it can be a deeply enriching experience, there is often a less visible reality behind the excitement of starting a new life abroad: exhaustion. In my consultations, expats sometimes describe a fatigue that never seems to lift, unusual irritability, a sense of disconnection, or the feeling that they are no longer quite themselves. What I have also observed is that this distress is rarely confined to one person. In expat families, when one parent begins to struggle, the entire family often has to adapt. Partners may feel isolated or lose their sense of direction, while children can pick up on their parents' stress, worries, or emotional fatigue, even when these feelings are never openly discussed.
New Zealand
Since June 1, foreign workers seeking certain work visas in New Zealand have been subject to new English language requirements. The government says the changes are intended to improve migrant integration and help prevent workplace exploitation.
Sweden
Since June 1, Sweden has tightened its work permit regulations. The new rules introduce higher salary requirements, stricter conditions for seasonal workers, mandatory health insurance in some cases, and increased scrutiny of employers.
Belgium
Belgium's latest reforms, which took effect on June 1, bring greater flexibility to the labor market in an effort to support job creation. At the same time, the government has introduced stricter requirements for non-European students.
United Arab Emirates
Foreign residents in the United Arab Emirates should take note: under UAE regulations, residence visas are generally canceled if the holder remains outside the country for more than 180 consecutive days. In most cases, affected residents must apply for a new visa before returning. However, several categories of expatriates are exempt from this rule and can retain their residency status despite an extended stay abroad.
USA
Another blow for foreigners in the United States. On May 22, a memo from the US immigration services introduced a new rule aimed at limiting legal immigration. Apart from a few exceptions, Green Card applications will now have to be filed from the applicant's country of origin. What is the current situation?
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