What Worries Expats the Most? (And How to Overcome It!) 🌍✈️
Relocating to a new country is exciting but comes with challenges. Here are the top 5 difficulties expats face - along with practical solutions and data-backed strategies to navigate them smoothly.
1️⃣ Cultural Adjustment 🌎
🔹 Challenge: Adapting to a new culture, language barriers, social customs, and workplace norms can be overwhelming.
🔹 How to Tackle It:
✅ Take cultural training courses before moving - 78% of successful expat assignments involve pre-move cultural training (Brookfield Global Mobility).
✅ Join local expat groups and attend cultural events to better understand social norms.
✅ Learn basic phrases in the local language - language proficiency is linked to higher job satisfaction and integration success (Expat Insider Survey).
2️⃣ Social Integration 🤝
🔹 Challenge: Making friends, building a network, and overcoming loneliness are common struggles.
🔹 How to Tackle It:
✅ Use expat networking platforms like Internations or Meetup to find like-minded people.
✅ Engage in local hobbies, sports, or volunteer work - expats involved in social activities report 40% higher happiness levels (HSBC Expat Explorer Survey).
✅ Don’t hesitate to connect with colleagues outside of work - many companies have expat-friendly initiatives.
3️⃣ Healthcare & Insurance 🏥
🔹 Challenge: Understanding local healthcare systems, insurance policies, and medical accessibility.
🔹 How to Tackle It:
✅ Research healthcare options before moving - 56% of expats struggle with medical system differences (AXA Global Healthcare).
✅ Invest in international health insurance if the local system is unfamiliar or expensive.
✅ Register with a local doctor and understand emergency procedures as soon as you arrive.
4️⃣ Financial Stability 💰
🔹 Challenge: Managing finances, currency exchange, cost of living, and taxation complexities.
🔹 How to Tackle It:
✅ Use budgeting apps to track expenses and currency fluctuations.
✅ Consult a tax professional - nearly 50% of expats face unexpected tax issues due to dual taxation (Expat Financial).
✅ Negotiate expat-friendly salary packages that consider cost of living adjustments.
5️⃣ Work-Life Balance ⚖️
🔹 Challenge: Adapting to different work cultures, long hours, and maintaining a personal life.
🔹 How to Tackle It:
✅ Set clear boundaries - expats who prioritize work-life balance report 30% higher job satisfaction (Mercer Quality of Living Survey).
✅ Research labor laws regarding working hours, paid leave, and employee rights.
✅ Explore flexible work options - remote or hybrid roles can ease adaptation to a new lifestyle.
Moving abroad is a transformative experience, but preparation is key! By tackling these challenges with the right strategies and resources, you can turn expat worries into opportunities for growth and success. 🌟
Email : sandrine.gelin@glshift.com
LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/sandrinelamrani
Discovery call: www.glshift.com/en/appel-decouverte
Web Site: www.glshift.com
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