Ghaya Hachani’s Post

US expats often flock to Europe in search of new opportunities. If you're considering adopting the expat lifestyle, you must pick the best city to move to. That's where our blog comes in! Check it out and pick the perfect place to settle in. https://lnkd.in/dc-MCGVF #europe #movingoverseas #USexpats #beforethemove #expatlife

#Expatriation is no joke First, we should set it apart from immigration. Expats live and work abroad for a limited time; usually 3/5 years, while immigrants settle abroad to stay. Having been expatriated several times and being currently an expat myself, I experienced first hand the issues and benefits of expatriation. In addition, I have studied and published several #academic articles on the topic. As a #consultant, I have been training expats from all #countries and saw how companies pick their expats: based exclusively on their technical skills. No one digs deeper into their real motivations for expatriation and even less into their ability to adjust to a different culture. The notion of #culturaldistance is fundamental. Having seen dramatic outcomes to this poor selection - divorces, traumas, and disruptions of all kinds - I created a method to measure expatriability: not everyone lives well away from home and this is why the early re-entry rate is very high, what is very bad news to companies and expats alike. I also conducted research on the importance of familiar #brands in helping expats to adjust to the host culture and #globalbrands play an important role in this process. Finally, there is the issue of #culturalcompatibility; someone who adjusted easily to one culture, might not do as well in a different one. There are too many aspects of expatriation to be considered and carefully measured. Unfortunately they are frequently neglected, although the outcomes can be terrible, because often people who deal with expatriation in companies have never lived abroad.  

With one of the one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe, Spain is a great place to consider if you want to relocate. If you are planning on taking the leap, checkout this CNN article on the best countries for expats and the pros and cons of each.

Do your homework... No, don’t worry, I did not mix up my posts! This message goes out to all international families and expatriates gearing up for a big move. But what does that mean concretely, do your homework? It means, that preparation is key before relocating – from understanding the culture and knowing about the language challenges to familiarizing yourself with the healthcare system and way of life etc.. Shortly, so that you have a clear idea what to expect, when arriving in your new home.   I recently attended events with Samantha Frearson-Tubito, a seasoned global nomad, who shared interesting insights form her experiences. She confirmed that despite her family's language fluency and expat experience, their move from Japan to the USA was unexpectedly challenging. Her explanation is that they simply underestimated the cultural differences in living there. The family thought they ‘knew’ the USA and that moving there would not be a big deal, leading them to believe the didn’t need thorough preparation for relocation. I often encounter similar experiences with international families arriving in Italy, especially those from Europe. They may believe they know the country from holiday visits and assume that being geographically close means little difference. Positive stereotypes about Italy may also contribute to this perception. However, daily life and work in Italy are quite distinct from the holiday experience and the Dolce Vita portrayed in media. Many times, I've heard people say, "If only I had known before moving how challenging the bureaucracy in Italy is, how crucial it is to speak Italian, how complex the healthcare system is, and much more…" They express regret, wishing they had prepared better, started learning the language earlier, and gained a deeper understanding of various aspects of life in Italy before their relocation.   Dear HR professionals and global mobility experts, it's crucial to remember that relocation packages should encompass more than just logistics, house hunting, school visits, and immigration. So, before your employees pack their bags, make sure they have all the essential information they need for their destination. This can make all the difference in their relocation success and enable managers to focus on the new professional challenge immediately from day one. #globalmobility #expatriates #italy Here we are Italy here we are global  

🧳When it comes to work-related relocation, there is no such thing as being too informed. In our comprehensive guide for expats, you will find the pros and cons of choosing #Austria as your next destination, common visa types for foreign professionals, as well as some insights and tips for aspiring newcomers to the country and its capital, #Vienna. https://lnkd.in/e2eNxjkp #workinaustria #expatinaustria #expatsinaienna #expatinvienna #Austrialife #expattips #expatlife #expats

What worries expats the most? The top 🔟 concerns when relocating to a new country, include: 1. Cultural Adjustment 🌍: Adapting to a new #culture, including language barriers, social customs, and different workplace norms, can be challenging. 2. Social Integration 🤝: Expats often worry about making friends, building a social #network, and overcoming feelings of isolation or loneliness in a foreign environment. 3. #Healthcare and #Insurance 🏥: Access to quality healthcare, understanding the local healthcare system, and dealing with #health insurance are major concerns, especially in countries with different healthcare standards. 4. Financial Stability💸: Managing finances, understanding the local cost of living, currency exchange rates, and dealing with #taxes in both the home and host countries can be stressful. 5. Work-Life Balance⚖️: Finding a balance between #work responsibilities and personal life, especially in cultures with different work expectations or longer working hours, is a common worry. 6. #Education for Children🎒: Expats with families are often concerned about finding good schools, the quality of education, and whether their children will adapt well to a new educational system. 7. #Legal / Administrative Issues📜: Dealing with #visas, #work permits, #residency requirements, and understanding local laws can be daunting. 8. Safety and Security🔐: Concerns about personal safety, political stability, and the overall security situation in the host country are often top of mind. 9. Career Prospects📈: Expats worry about their #career progression, job security, and whether their qualifications and experience will be valued in the new country. 10. Repatriation✈️: Finally, expats often worry about the long-term impact of their move, including the challenges of returning home after a long period abroad and re-adjusting to their native culture. — For expats in Barcelona, Barcelona Metropolitan is a must-read resource. This English-language magazine offers invaluable insights into life in the city, covering everything from local news, #events, and cultural activities to practical advice on navigating the Spanish bureaucracy. Whether you're looking to connect with the expat community, find out about the best neighborhoods to live in, or simply want to stay informed about what's happening around you, #BarcelonaMetropolitan provides the information and support needed to make the most of your experience in this vibrant city. Brenna Cline Polina Perin Courtney Decker Tati Paes Vincent Steffanini Maria Kelly Niamh Mannion 🌎 Billy Keels ✈️

Guess which country tops this list of the top 10 best places to live abroad, according to expats?

📆 Going into a new year - possibly another year on your spouse's expat contract - it's important to think long term about what you need and want or what you DON'T need or want. ❓Which question do you identify with more ❓ 1) What do I want to get out of this expat assignment? 2) What do I not want to lose because of this expat assignment? You don't have to be the Trailing/Trailblazing Spouse to have these questions. Maybe you're the Visa Holding Spouse and are having unforeseen challenges. Tom Roberts knows a thing or two about expat challenges.

Seven Characteristics for Thriving when Returning from Abroad I have debriefed hundred of expats. Some navigate repatriation with resilience. Some struggle. And some wish they had never returned. Here are seven characteristics that I have seen in the ones who repatriate and navigate the transition well: 1. Adaptability: The ability to adjust to new situations and environments is crucial. Successful repatriates can shift their expectations and adapt their behaviors to align with their home country’s culture, just as they did when they initially moved abroad. 2. Open-mindedness: Keeping an open mind helps returning expats embrace changes that may have occurred at home during their absence. This quality also aids in re-adapting to their home culture without harsh judgments. 3. Proactive Communication: Effective communication skills are vital. Those who actively seek to reconnect with old networks and establish new connections often find the transition smoother. They communicate their experiences and changed perspectives clearly to bridge any gaps with colleagues, friends, and family. 4. Patience: Patience is a virtue, especially when readjusting to life back home. Understanding that it takes time to settle back into a familiar yet changed environment can reduce frustration and prevent the rush to judgment about the new state of things. 5. Reflective Skills: Those who reflect on their experiences abroad and what they've learned are better at applying these insights back home. This reflection helps them integrate their international experiences into their personal and professional lives effectively. 6. Resilience: Repatriation can come with unexpected emotional and practical challenges. Resilient expats can manage stress and bounce back from setbacks more easily, using their skills honed from overcoming challenges abroad. 7. Cultural Sensitivity: Having heightened cultural sensitivity helps returning expats understand and sympathize with both the culture they left behind and the one they are re-entering. This sensitivity can prevent potential misunderstandings and conflicts. These characteristics not only aid in personal adjustment but also enhance professional effectiveness upon returning, helping expats reintegrate into workplaces that may have evolved in their absence. #expats #repatriation #debriefing

▶ Every year, thousands reach out with hopes of relocating to Italy. From retirees seeking tranquility in the countryside to digital nomads in search of a scenic workspace, Italy's charm is magnetic. Yet, moving here requires patience and meticulous preparation. Here’s why: ✅ Immigration Hurdles: For non-EU citizens, like post-Brexit UK nationals, the need for a visa adds layers of complexity. Immigration laws are clear: meet the criteria or face delays. Sometimes, achieving the right qualifications for specific visas, such as intra-company transfers, might take years but is often the only path to realize your Italian dream. ✅ Language Barrier: Living in Italy with limited Italian is challenging. Without the language, simple daily tasks can feel like monumental hurdles. Proficiency in Italian is crucial, especially in the job market where English isn't always enough. Learning the language is a commitment that can prolong your relocation timeline. ✅ Job Market Evolution: The digital age has transformed traditional roles, such as teaching English, reducing their profitability. Adapting to the current job market demands might require reskilling or upskilling, delaying your move as you prepare. ✅ Financial Planning: Relocating without sufficient funds can be precarious. Costs like rental deposits and unexpected expenses in property renovations demand a robust financial plan. An emergency fund covering at least six months is advisable to cushion your transition. ✅ Scouting Trips: Visiting Italy to explore potential living areas can be crucial. These trips ensure your chosen location fits your lifestyle, adding time but invaluable insight into your relocation process. 📧 With over 30 years helping people move to Italy, I’ve learned that thorough preparation leads to a successful and enjoyable life here. Ready to start your journey? Have questions? Contact me at [email protected] for personalized advice and support. Let's turn your Italian dream into reality. #italy #relocation #immigration #realestate