Expatriate

Expatriate

An expatriate (often shortened to expat) is a person residing in a country other than their native country. In common usage, the term often refers to professionals, skilled workers, or artists taking positions outside their home country, either independently or sent abroad by their employers, which can be companies, universities, governments, or non-governmental organisations.

Definition

Technically, the term expatriate simply means to be living in a foreign land. The term is often used more broadly to refer to professionals or skilled workers abroad, or artists. This 'broad' definition covers a wide range of expatriates, including both immigrants and emigrants.

Reasons for Expatriation

There are many reasons why someone might become an expatriate. These can include employment opportunities, a desire for adventure, to escape from political, economic or social conditions in their home country, or simply to experience living in a different culture.

Challenges

Expatriates may face a number of challenges, such as cultural shock, homesickness, language barriers, and different work practices. They may also have to adjust to different laws and regulations in their new country.

Benefits

Despite the challenges, there are also many benefits to being an expatriate. These can include the opportunity to experience a new culture, learn a new language, develop new skills, and make new friends. Expatriates may also benefit from improved career prospects and a higher standard of living.

See Also

• Immigration
• Emigration
• Cultural shock
• Homesickness

References

Expatriate Resources
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