Natallia Slimani

Coming back home after having lived abroad can be both exciting and overwhelming. But let's put emotions aside for a second and focus on the practical side of things. Namely, finances. Let's start at the beginning.

Have you ever loved a destination so much that you found yourself dreaming of moving there? It happens more often than one might think. You arrive in a new country. You spend a week going to the beach, discovering bold street food flavors, and meeting fun, carefree people. And then, before you know it, you are looking at real estate ads and rates for international moving companies. But should a vacation ever turn into a relocation? Let's explore. 

Studying abroad is a bold move. You will be putting yourself in an entirely new environment while trying to handle the pressures of higher education. But it's also a bold move that tends to pay off. Studying abroad can open doors to new professional opportunities, enrich you culturally and socially, and even help you learn a new language.

The latest tax reform in Kenya has sparked intense protests and unrest. The BBC and France 24 report that at least 39 people were killed during the protests, while local news outlets say the death toll rose to 19 people. The situation has escalated and is drawing international attention and concern. 

Moving to a new country almost always comes with a set of shocks. You may run into them right away or several months and even years into your stay. Out of all the shocks of an expat journey, culture shock is the most known and talked about. There are lots of resources online that will tell you how to manage culture shock, typically labeling it as something negative and unpleasant. But what if the culture shock you are experiencing is actually making you raise your own standards? It turns out that for some expats, culture shock can be a push.

Being a parent in a foreign country can mean many things. Exciting, fun, scary, full of surprises... The list of adjectives here can go in all sorts of different directions. But while there is usually quite a bit of information and support facilities for women who seek support in parenting abroad, the options for expat fathers are rather limited. So, we thought we'd look behind the scenes at what it's like to be a father abroad – and where to look for help if you need it.

On September 9, 2022, the UAE, long regarded as a tax-free haven, announced the first batch of significant changes to its tax regulations. The changes affect both individuals and companies and, potentially, the business landscape of the country. The new rules also have direct implications for expats — with some finding themselves in a new tax residency status. So, what do the new regulations actually say?

There are lots of reasons why you may be considering purchasing property abroad. First, owning property comes with stability and security, which is something expats often long for after relocation. You will also finally be able to style your home as you like, bringing in the little decor elements that you hold dear. 

An expat's life seems to be a constant game of push and pull. Working and living abroad offers unique opportunities for personal and professional growth and cultural immersion. But it is also filled with challenges: emotional, financial, and personal. So, what should expats do to find balance? And is it even achievable?

Moving abroad is a chance to build a new life. You get to learn a new language, meet new people, and adjust to a new culture. But with all the "new" around, some expats can't help but cling to the "old". For some, relocation makes them understand and appreciate the value of their home cultures in a way they never did before.

Air travel can be stressful. You need to arrive early, check the size of your luggage, and go through customs. And then there are flight delays. But, apparently, some airports can raise your cortisol levels higher than others.  

Singapore regularly tops the list of the most expensive cities in the world. In 2023, it tied with Zurich in first place among the most expensive cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The same year, a report by Mercer called Singapore the best city for expats in Asia. However, in recent years, Singapore has been experiencing a continuous exodus of expats. Even those who have called it home for a long time are starting to reconsider.

Expat bashing seems to have become a real trend in the Netherlands, according to one article published in DutchNews.nl. Driven by historical grievances and the more recent issues related to the housing and economic impact that expats have, some local residents have expressed strong concern about expat presence in their country. Local publications have joined in by frequently portraying the expats in the country as overprivileged and out of touch.

The video of an American being amazed by shopping malls in Australia recently took TikTok by storm. In it, the young woman is amazed that malls in Australia have delis, grocery stores, and even a pharmacy. The comment section featured a lot of surprised Australians who couldn't believe that malls in the United States were different.

Happiness is a complicated matter. Philosophers have tried to define it, economists have tried to measure it, and expats, well, expats are trying to find it. Several surveys look at happiness from a geographical angle. Their goal is to determine whether location has an impact on your emotional well-being. And, as it turns out, it does. But the rest isn't that clear.

Türkiye is a wonderful country to travel to and an interesting place to work from. But what if you are here to learn? Whether you are moving to Türkiye with your children and plan to enroll them in a local school or whether you are interested in pursuing studies in the country, here is some information you may find helpful.

If you are going to study in Istanbul, you need to discover the best spots for students, such as where to study, where to socialize, how to meet new people, and where to spend your leisure time during the weekends. We have prepared a small list for you to discover more about Istanbul's student life.

Istanbul, the 5th largest city in the world with a population of over 17 million, is famous for its history of three great empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. The city's energy makes it a cultural, economic and financial hub in Türkiye. When it comes to expat living, the city is full of opportunities, but here are some practical tips to help you adjust to your new environment and lifestyle.

Dating in Türkiye is an interesting mix of traditional customs and contemporary trends, reflecting the country's complex cultural makeup. The dating culture in Türkiye is deeply influenced by its historical roots and the values that have been passed down through generations. However, the approach to dating and relationships has also embraced modern influences.

Türkiye is a country rich in diversity, with a history of welcoming various cultures. In this article, we will look into Türkiye's multicultural background, its people, and government efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion. We will also try to provide an honest overview of the current situation for gender and LGBTQ rights, as well as the inclusion of people with disabilities.

Türkiye, a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, is viewed by many as an ideal destination for retirees seeking a fulfilling chapter in life. Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, it offers a unique mix of tradition and modern comfort that a lot of retires from the neighboring European countries and the UK have come to appreciate.

Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, has long been a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and histories. This unique blend of Eastern and Western influences has established Istanbul as a significant educational hub, attracting students from around the globe. The city's rich historical and cultural legacy, combined with its modern and dynamic lifestyle, makes it an appealing destination for international students seeking a unique learning environment.

Türkiye has increasingly become a magnet for expats looking to invest in property. With its alluring blend of vibrant culture, historical richness, and stunning landscapes, Türkiye offers more than just a strategic location. For expats, the country presents a unique mix of lifestyle opportunities coupled with potentially lucrative investment prospects.

Istanbul offers excellent opportunities for expats when it comes to business and working life. The city has a developed economy, with many sectors being boosted by foreign expertise. Learn about the most promising fields in Istanbul for expats.

Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, Istanbul can be a great place to live, work or set up a business. Professional networking in Istanbul opens doors to a world where vibrant history meets dynamic modernity. Istanbul offers a unique platform for professionals from diverse industries to connect, share ideas, and grow. Whether you're an expat or a local, the city's rich cultural backdrop and thriving business environment create endless opportunities for building meaningful professional relationships. 

Moving to Istanbul means that you will have plenty of time to discover everything this city has to offer. Istanbul loves sports: and here you will have lots of options for both practicing and watching it. 

If you have just moved to Istanbul, whether alone or with your family, it's probably time to start exploring your new home and socializing. Here is an overview of the various leisure activities available for expats, especially kids.

Istanbul has a lot to offer visitors, whether you are staying in the city for a short time or for a while. Most expats agree that being bored in Istanbul is an almost impossible scenario. The city packs a lot into its 5,461 km² and is a whirlwind of restaurants and cafes, museums and art galleries, concerts, music festivals – and lots more.

Istanbul is a thriving business hub and one of the world's most visited cities. It follows that the city's bustling bustle and traffic are normal. Getting around Istanbul can be a hassle. A quick scroll through any expat forum in the city will give you an impression that Istanbul is in a continuous gridlock and all the commute times suggested by Google Maps should be multiplied by two. But while the city's busy traffic and crowded buses may take some getting used to, navigating Istanbul effectively is mostly about experience. Here's a quick guide to get you started.

An internship in Türkiye can prove to be a prized addition to your CV, demonstrating your open-mindedness and your readiness to adjust to foreign working conditions. If you are serious about your career in the country, it may even be a must. Türkiye hosts many national and international firms needing foreign talent. Here are a few tips to help you find an internship in Türkiye and navigate the administrative procedures.

Bringing along their cherished possessions helps many expats make themselves at home in their new country. Besides, if you do not intend to live in Türkiye, taking with you the personal belongings you want to keep may prove less expensive than renting a storage unit.

Pets, and cats in particular, are fondly loved by most Turkish people, who prove incredibly caring to street animals. In large cities, you will find veterinary clinics and pet food or toy retailers at every corner. Therefore, taking care of your furry or feathery friends will not be much of a challenge once you are settled. However, bringing your pet to Türkiye from abroad will require you to follow specific procedures. Here's what you need to know.

Networking and socializing are key in Istanbul, a city teeming with opportunities for business, work, or social connections. As an expat in this vast and vibrant city, you have various avenues to expand your network. From specialized expat forums like Expat.com to local networking events, Istanbul offers plenty of ways to meet new people and grow your social circle.  

If you are thinking about starting a business in Türkiye, there are several things you will need to look into. First, you'll want to know the rules of the game. The Turkish government has been making things consistently easier for foreign investors to contribute to the local economy. With that, there are still many procedural specifics to be aware of and cultural nuances to keep in mind.   

Having a local bank account will significantly facilitate your life as an expat in Türkiye. Not only might you need it to pay your bills or receive your wage if you are an employee, but it will also allow you to make your daily purchases without constantly paying the fees probably charged by your foreign bank for international transactions.

It is needless to stress the importance of health coverage in a foreign country. Fortunately, Türkiye has a well-developed healthcare system, with state-of-the-art medical facilities and highly qualified personnel, as well as quality health coverage schemes.

Istanbul is a city that regularly welcomes newcomers. With its relentless energy, it attracts all types of tourists and expats, from those who stop by for a brief visit to those interested in a more permanent stay. If you are thinking about settling in Istanbul, you may be looking into buying property in the city. This article in our guide explains all the intricacies of real estate purchases in Istanbul.

Moving to Izmir? Great idea! Türkiye's third-largest city, Izmir combines the cultural and entertainment amenities of a big city with a more relaxed atmosphere, pleasantly mild weather and proximity to famous beach resorts such as Datca, Cesme and Alacati.

The largest city in Türkiye, Istanbul is one of the most popular travel destinations for foreigners. There is a blend of modernism, culture, and history in this metropolis. Istanbul, a city that lies on both the European and Asian continents, is a place where East and West collide to create a distinctive cultural atmosphere that is both enthralling and historically fascinating.

Türkiye's second-largest city with over 5 million inhabitants, Ankara is first and foremost the country's political capital. The city is home to the headquarters of the Turkish government, to all central administration services, to many foreign consulates and embassies, and to international institutions. As a result, it is an international, outward-looking city, attracting a number of foreign professionals. To help you decide where to settle in Ankara, here is an overview of the city's assets, neighborhoods, and general housing conditions.

Izmir is the third largest city in Türkiye. It shows buoyant activity in industry, agriculture, and services and is a major commercial hub. As such, Izmir offers you the rare opportunity to grow your career in an idyllic seaside setting.

Just like most big cities, Istanbul has a variety of job opportunities in industries ranging from electronics to tourism. However, thanks to its distinctive blend of heritage and modernity. Istanbul offers a truly unique setting to those who choose to live and work here. In this article, we will look into key insights into hiring procedures, ways of adjusting to a new culture and utilizing the dynamic environment of the city to further your professional development in Istanbul.

Ankara is Türkiye's political capital and second-largest city after Istanbul. Modern infrastructure and proximity to the nation's decision-makers make it an attractive option for foreign investors and international companies. When it comes to the expat population, however, Ankara falls substantially behind Istanbul as well as the smaller towns along the Turquoise coast.  

Istanbul has always been Türkiye's economic heart. From history to modern times, the city always carried almost 40 percent of the country's financial activities. This results in lots of jobs and business opportunities, but it also means that you will have to prepare yourself for facing a vibrant professional environment.

You are in for a treat if you are in Türkiye as an expat. There are lots of different leisure opportunities awaiting you. 

When you move to Türkiye, setting up your own phone and internet is a smart move to make right off the bat. Sure, you'll find free WiFi in many cafes and restaurants, and there are pay-as-you-go phones around. But having your own reliable connection is going to be a game-changer in your new Turkish adventure. With that said, there are quite a few nuances to setting up your mobile phone in Türkiye.

Traditions dating back to the Ottoman era still permeate Türkiye, along with modern influences to form a unique blend-specific Türkiye. Affinity with Turkish culture is the driver prompting many expats to relocate to the country in the first place. If you are not familiar yet with the Turkish lifestyle, great surprises are waiting for you, and Turkish people's generosity and warmth will definitely contribute to making you want to stay.

Most expats in Türkiye find themselves living in cities, where they can rely on extensive networks of public transport (including the metro, buses and trams) as well as on numerous taxis for their daily trips. Public transportation within inner cities is typically inexpensive, and the fleets are usually clean and well-maintained, with frequent and punctual departures.

Türkiye is a huge country offering a variety of landscapes and attractions. Most expats settle in major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir or Antalya. However, you should not miss the opportunity to travel around the country and discover the stunning rocky landscapes of Cappadocia or the beautiful beaches of Fethiye, for example.

A tourist visa will only allow you to stay in Türkiye for up to 90 days. So, if you are looking to stay in the country for longer, you will need to look into other options. The most obvious option for extending your stay in Türkiye is applying for a residence permit. And this is what we will look into in this article.