08/01/2024
Want to live abroad? Here are 9 things I wish I knew before becoming an expat
When I dreamed of living abroad, I had visions of sipping drinks on tropical beaches and never wearing a suit again.
The reality has been a bit more complex (although I still refuse to wear a tie and totally enjoy my sundown tropical beverages on the beach).
Don't get me wrong - I'm glad I took the plunge into expat life. But there are a few things I wish someone had told me beforehand:
1. Your relationships will change - for better and worse. Living oceans away from family and friends back home takes a toll. But you'll also form deep bonds with fellow expats. You'll also create a lot of more superficial bonds as more people will come into and out of your life.
2. You'll face bureaucracy and paperwork. Getting visas and permits is frustrating at times, beyond stupid at others. Be prepared to feel like you're back at the DMV or much worse. Bring your patience and sense of humor, there isn't a damn thing you can do about it.
3. Culture shock will sneak up on you. Even when you think you've adapted, small differences in manners and mindsets can throw you for a loop. In Latin America, it might be the Manana culture. Or some little quirk. Some you'll love, others will drive you right around the bend.
4. You'll miss "little things" from back home, often when you least expect it. The world is getting smaller, but some things you're just not going to be able to get. At least not in a hurry, or for cheap.
5. Your priorities may shift. Material things might seem less important out here. But new things like language learning and travel take precedence.
6. You'll have to get used to being a "foreigner." No matter how long I live abroad, I'm unlikely to blend in completely. Standing out has pros and cons. And some people will consider you a "guest" even if you've transplanted yourself to a place for 16 or 20 years (which is INFURIATING!)
7. Tax law gets very complicated. Hire experts or be prepared for a steep learning curve on reporting income and paying taxes abroad. But if you come from Canada or the US, you can likely save enough in taxes to make the bit of a learning curve VERY worth it.
8. You'll change and grow in ways you can't predict. Moving abroad shifts your perspective on the world, politics, people, everything. It's eye opening.
Have you made the jump to become an expat? What lessons did you learn that I missed? Share your wisdom with aspiring global citizens in the comments!
