Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad Global Report
Contents 4 Foreword 6 Key findings 8 Expat Explorer overview Economics Experience 3 Family 4 Country reports 44 Argentina 46 Australia 48 Bahrain 50 Brazil 5 Canada 54 China 56 France 58 Hong Kong 60 India 6 Indonesia 64 Malaysia 66 Mexico 68 New Zealand 70 Saudi Arabia 7 Singapore 74 Switzerland 76 Taiwan 78 United Arab Emirates 80 United Kingdom 8 United States 84 Practical steps towards a balanced expat life 86 The research Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 3
Foreword by Dean Blackburn, Head HSBC Expat Living abroad can be an exciting, challenging and occasionally daunting adventure. It provides an opportunity to reale ambitions, develop a career and build a new life and a family home in an unfamiliar, but ten rewarding environment. As global mobility increases, expat life becoming more attainable more people. International companies continue to develop ir business overseas and ten fer ir employees a secondment opportunity, while fast-growing and diverse economies attract people to new, exciting lives abroad. At same time, technology has made it much easier to keep in touch with friends and family from or side world. Regardless where y choose to move ir adventure, expats are seeking a balanced experience in ir new home. Th report, Balancing life abroad, looks at th me in detail. What it shows that rar than aiming purely higher wages or instant career success, many expats move to improve ir quality life, seek a personal challenge or learn new skills. It th combination factors that guides many lifestyle choices expats make when settling in anor country. Th evident among first-timers, who are heading abroad determined to improve ir life as well as ir career. It also true retired expats, who quickly become active members ir new communities and enjoy integrating into a new culture. Few people who live abroad do so without carefully considering ir options, and th desire relevant inmation one reason we publh Expat Explorer. Balancing life abroad eighth report in series and includes responses from,950 expats across world our largest survey expats ever. It contains ir views on topics including managing finances, career progression, culture y experience and quality life ir children. Covered in depth in th report, findings are also available online to help current and future expats understand latest views on life abroad, find out more about 39 popular expat destinations and easily compare m. The research used to create country league tables covering three aspects life abroad: Economics, Experience and Family. Combining se factors, Singapore emerges as best place overall to live and work as an expat. People who live re prae Singapore as a true all-rounder. Its streets are safe, job opportunities are plentiful, wages are high and it fers plenty to see and do. Career progression remains important to many people and ambitious expats should consider Switzerland, which ranked as best place Economics. Meanwhile New Zealand ranked first Experience and Sweden number one Family. Whatever ir motivation living abroad, I hope findings in Balancing life abroad give expats an inmative insight into places where y live or want to live. Thank you to everyone who has taken time to share ir views with us. 4 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 5
Key findings 6 Singapore ranks first in overall Expat Explorer league table, providing strong opportunities career progression and a stable economy. Overall, 67 say ir quality life better in Singapore than it was at home. Expats are moving abroad to improve ir quality life and take on new challenges, rar than purely higher salaries. Their appetite learning new skills in a eign workplace and how to integrate into a new culture are two examples th. 7 Expat employee benefits vary greatly across world, but expats in Middle East enjoy some most generous employment packages. More than half (5) expats globally have health and medical benefits, but only a third (33) receive accommodation allowances, compared to 60 expats living in Middle East. Expats rank South East Asia as best place career satfaction, with four top five destinations ( Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and China) rated by expats on th sue located in region. Nearly three-quarters (74) expats globally find at least one aspect managing money abroad a challenge. Nearly two in five (37) expats identify managing finances in different currencies as a key challenge most common financial problem faced. 3 8 4 9 Expats living abroad because ir partner accepted a job are leading independent, active social lives. 54 believe move has brought m closer toger in ir relationship, compared to 3 who say th not case. 5 0 Globally, expats say cities London, Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong are four best places in world to start a business, due to ir strong economies, culture and business environment which attract world s expat entrepreneurs. Nearly four in five (77) expats are confident about Switzerland s economy and 53 say it a good place career progression. These are two reasons why country ranks first in Economics league table. New Zealand ranks first in Experience league table and 77 say ir overall quality life better since moving re. Expats enjoy outdoor lifestyle and sporting culture country and 57 say y have become more physically active living re. Sweden s family friendly culture and respected schools help country rank first in Family league table. The quality childcare better than at home according to 79 expat parents, while country also excels at bringing expat couples closer toger. Which expats took part in survey Gender 44 Female 56 Male Age 35-54 45 8-34 55+ 8 7 Top occupations Finance Education 5 Media 3 0 6 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 7
Expat Explorer Overall league table The Expat Explorer league table ranks each country or territory based on a score that summares expats overall views that destination. The Expat Explorer score average Economics, Experience and Family scores, covering 7 key questions from survey. Furr details methodology th league table can be found in The research section at end report. Country Expat Explorer overall Rank Economics Experience Family Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank Score Singapore 0.56 0.59 3 0.6 3 0.48 New Zealand 0.56 6 0.49 0.67 0.5 India 7 0.44 7 0.46 30 0.43 0 0.43 Czech Republic 8 0.44 0 0.45 0 0.48 7 0.38 Mexico 9 0.43 6 0.40 9 0.5 8 0.38 Malaysia 0 0.43 5 0.4 7 0.50 3 0.37 Thailand 0.4 30 0.34 8 0.53 4 0.40 Qatar 0.4 5 0.54 34 0.4 34 0.30 United Kingdom 3 0.4 9 0.45 4 0.46 8 0.30 Japan 4 0.4 7 0.39 3 0.50 4 0.36 Vietnam 5 0.4 0.45 0.47 3 0.3 Sweden 3 0.5 6 0.53 5 0.50 0.54 Saudi Arabia 6 0.4 7 0.53 35 0.4 36 0.9 Bahrain 4 0.5 8 0.5 7 0.57 6 0.46 Germany 5 0.5 3 0.56 0.50 5 0.46 Canada 6 0.50 0.5 6 0.58 8 0.44 Australia 7 0.49 5 0.49 4 0.59 0.40 Taiwan 8 0.48 8 0.46 5 0.58 5 0.39 China 7 0.4 0.50 36 0.4 30 0.33 Philippines 8 0.4 3 0.33 7 0.45 9 0.43 France 9 0.4 3 0.3 4 0.50 3 0.40 Belgium 30 0.40 4 0.4 33 0.4 0.38 Ireland 3 0.38 9 0.36 8 0.45 6 0.34 United Arab Emirates 9 0.47 4 0.55 8 0.48 6 0.39 South Africa 3 0.38 34 0.9 5 0.46 0.38 Switzerland 0 0.47 0.60 6 0.46 5 0.36 Hong Kong 0.47 0 0.5 0.5 0 0.38 Nerlands 0.46 4 0.49 9 0.45 7 0.45 Spain 3 0.46 36 0.9 0.6 4 0.47 Oman 4 0.46 9 0.5 0 0.5 7 0.33 Russia 5 0.45 3 0.43 6 0.50 0.4 Indonesia 33 0.37 8 0.38 3 0.4 33 0.3 Kuwait 34 0.35 0.44 39 0.36 39 0.4 Argentina 35 0.34 38 0.8 3 0.4 9 0.33 Turkey 36 0.34 35 0.9 0.47 38 0.5 Egypt 37 0.33 33 0.3 38 0.39 35 0.9 Italy 38 0.33 39 0.0 9 0.48 3 0.3 United States 6 0.45 3 0.49 3 0.46 9 0.38 Brazil 39 0.3 37 0.8 37 0.39 37 0.9 Scores are rounded to two decimal places in league table 8 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 9
Singapore takes crown as best place to live and work Fitter, smarter, happier: expats look beyond financial rewards Singapore emerges as best place overall expats to enjoy an excellent quality life, financial wellbeing and improved career prospects. Expats highlight its safe environment, confidence in local economy and quality life ir children as some best reasons to live re. Singapore attracts expats looking to learn new skills and earn higher wages. Nearly three in five (59) expats say citystate a good place career advancement, while 53 say chance to acquire new skills at work better than at home (only dagree with th view). Nearly a third (30) expats in Singapore work in banking, insurance or financial services, reflecting its place as one major financial hubs in Asia. Although living in country expensive, expat earnings are high: an average expat salary USD59,000 p.a. puts country well above global average USD04,000 p.a. As a result, nearly two thirds (65) expats enjoy a greater level dposable income than at home, while 60 are able to save more, compared with only 6 who say y save less. In addition to financial gains, Singapore one best destinations quality life. Over two thirds (67) expats say y have enjoyed a re in ir quality life since moving (compared with global average 53). Exerce one reason th improvement, as 55 expats have become more physically active since living in Singapore. Watersports, team games like rugby and even a Snow City fer ways to stay active. Expat parents say re are clear benefits ir families, with almost two thirds (65) stating ir children s health and wellbeing has improved since moving (compared with global average 48). The vast majority (87) expats prae Singapore s level safety. New Zealand, Sweden, Bahrain and Germany are or countries ranked by expats in top five overall destinations. Expats in each se destinations say y are a good place to rae a family and Sweden ranks first in Family league table. Germany, Sweden and Bahrain rank in top ten countries Economics, while New Zealand ranks first Experience. Expats priorite improving ir life and finding a new challenge, rar than looking a quick salary increase from ir move abroad, according to findings in Balancing life abroad. Expats see ir overseas adventure as a long-term investment in ir health, skills and life experience. As a result, moving to improve job prospects only third most important reason becoming an expat, followed by being sent by an exting employer and moving better climate. Globally, over three in five (6) expats admit y have not experienced an immediate increase in ir pay packet since ir move. Instead, y Why expats decided to move to ir host country are pursuing a better life with 53 enjoying an increase in ir quality life as a result moving and a furr 6 seeing it stay same. Moving abroad also about learning new skills and embracing new cultures, according to expats. Only 4 struggle to integrate into ir local community and just fail to immerse mselves in ir new culture. Learning to speak local language anor key part acclimating something 63 expats have done. Finding fulfilment at work anor strong me. Nearly half (48) find ir work more 37 To have a new challenge 37 To improve my quality life 6 To improve my job prospects 6 I was sent by an employer fulfilling overseas than at home and only 3 dagree. While abroad, 43 expats are picking up new skills too, as a result ir exposure to a eign work environment. Finally, expats see an improvement in ir physical condition and in ir relationship with family. Almost half (44) expats are more physically active as a result move, with an additional 30 still as active as at home. And expats with partners, 49 say journey overseas bringing m closer toger in ir relationship, compared to only 8 who dagree. 59 What expats say about living in Singapore 5 For better climate Their quality life better living re Their children s health and wellbeing better It a good place expats to progress ir career Q: Thinking why you moved, which following apply to you? Please select all that apply. (Base: All respondents) 0 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad
Economics Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 3
Economics League table India 7 0.46 6 0.5 5 0.47 9 0.4 The Economics league table ranks each country or territory using a score that summares expats views on nine key questions. Three se questions concern an expat s personal finances ( example, ir earning prospects); a furr three cover views on local economy ( example, how easy it to start a business in country); and final three cover an expat s working life ( example, prospects career progression). Furr details methodology th league table can be found in The research section at end report. Country Economics overall Personal finances Local economy Working life Switzerland 0.60 6 0.63 3 0.64 4 0.5 Singapore 0.59 7 0.63 0.7 3 0.44 Germany 3 0.56 0 0.49 0.64 0.56 United Arab Emirates Rank Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank Score 4 0.55 8 0.63 5 0.6 7 0.4 Qatar 5 0.54 0.73 9 0.5 3 0.38 Taiwan 8 0.46 8 0.5 3 0.48 0.40 United Kingdom Czech Republic 9 0.45 9 0.44 0.49 4 0.43 0 0.45 0.48 7 0.46 0.40 Vietnam 0.45 0.55 0.4 5 0.36 Kuwait 0.44 9 0.6 3 0.37 33 0.33 Russia 3 0.43 6 0.47 5 0.37 0.45 Belgium 4 0.4 3 0.48 8 0.30 7 0.47 Malaysia 5 0.4 0.55 7 0.3 4 0.38 Mexico 6 0.40 7 0.45 0.39 6 0.36 Japan 7 0.38 7 0.5 6 0.33 34 0.3 Indonesia 8 0.38 3 0.53 30 0.7 3 0.33 Sweden 6 0.53 0.48 7 0.56 0.56 Ireland 9 0.36 35 0.35 4 0.37 7 0.36 Saudi Arabia 7 0.53 3 0.67 0.49 5 0.43 Thailand 30 0.34 5 0.47 34 0. 30 0.33 Bahrain 8 0.5 4 0.67 0 0.44 9 0.46 Oman 9 0.5 0.69 9 0.45 0 0.4 Hong Kong 0 0.5 5 0.64 4 0.48 8 0.4 Philippines 3 0.33 4 0.47 9 0.30 39 0.3 France 3 0.3 38 0.30 33 0. 6 0.4 Egypt 33 0.3 34 0.38 3 0.5 35 0.3 Canada 0.50 9 0.49 6 0.56 8 0.47 South Africa 34 0.9 33 0.39 36 0.6 9 0.34 China 0.50 0 0.58 8 0.45 0 0.46 Turkey 35 0.9 8 0.45 35 0.8 38 0.4 United States 3 0.49 4 0.53 0 0.5 0.44 Spain 36 0.9 36 0.34 3 0.3 36 0.30 Nerlands 4 0.49 30 0.43 8 0.5 3 0.53 Australia 5 0.49 5 0.5 6 0.46 6 0.49 Brazil 37 0.8 3 0.40 37 0. 3 0.33 Argentina 38 0.8 3 0.39 38 0.0 8 0.35 New Zealand 6 0.49 37 0.33 4 0.64 5 0.50 Italy 39 0.0 39 0.5 39 0.08 37 0.7 Scores are rounded to two decimal places in league table 4 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 5
Top destinations fulfilling expat careers Managing money as an expat Expats looking a satfying, fulfilling place to work should head to South East Asia as four top five destinations rated by expats work satfaction are in region. The majority expats living in Philippines (57), Malaysia (55), Indonesia (54) and mainland China (53) all say y have found ir work to be more fulfilling since relocating, compared with less than 5 in se countries who say opposite. One reason th how easy expats find it to fit in with ir local colleagues, with around two thirds expats in Philippines (65) and Indonesia (6) saying y are integrating well with local community. If South East Asia stands out collectively, Russia stands out individually. The country has highest rating by expats as best place to learn new skills. It also home to most fulfilling expat jobs. Nearly half (45) expats in Russia prae work culture, compared to only 0 who say it worse than at home. In addition, 57 say it took m less than a year to feel at home compared with 48 globally. Learning local language key to successfully integrating in Russia. Over seven in 0 (7) expats in country are learning and using Russian during ir time re, compared with 55 expats globally who are learning ir new local language. Everyday responsibilities such as paying bills and saving retirement can be made more challenging by expat life, as se tasks can involve multiple currencies across different countries. As a result, nearly three-quarters (74) expats feel at least one aspect ir finances has become more complex since moving abroad. For some expats, managing ir money a particular challenge. Nearly a third (30) globally say that ir finances have become more complex overall since moving abroad and th especially true expats living in Brazil (44), India (4) and Japan (4). Common challenges faced include dealing with finances in multiple currencies (37), a more complicated tax situation (7) and moving money between countries (). Expats on higher incomes face more a challenge managing ir money across borders. Nearly half (46) expats earning over USD50,000 p.a. say ir finances have become more complex overall since moving abroad, far above global average 30. Dealing with multiple currencies biggest challenge 65 th group. Managing money not universally difficult across world. Expats in Eurozone, Middle East and Far East say organing ir finances relatively easy. In Bahrain example, only 6 expats say ir finances have become more complex overall, and just 7 say ir tax situation more complicated living in country. In Hong Kong, expats are confident about managing ir finances. Only around one in 0 () believe managing ir money more restrictive in Hong Kong than at home (compared with global average 6). Likewe, 5 say y do not understand financial leglation in Hong Kong, compared to 0 expats globally. These are both reflections its status as world s most liberal economy, according to Heritage Foundation. www.heritage.org/index/country/hongkong What expats say about working abroad Country Global average Work more fulfilling 48 43 The chance to acquire new skills The impact living abroad on expats finances 74 37 say dealing with finances feel at least one aspect ir finances has become more complex living abroad in multiple currencies a common challenge Russia 6 6 Philippines 57 4 Malaysia 55 4 Indonesia 54 36 China 53 55 Q: Are following aspects work in your host country better or worse than in your home country? If you don t work we are interested in your perspective th as an expat. A: How fulfilling your work (Base: All respondents) A: The chance to acquire new skills (Base: All respondents) 6 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 7
80 or more expats think se cities are a good place to start a business The Middle East fers most desirable packages expats Expat entrepreneurs drawn to world s financial hubs The financial hubs London, Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong provide perfect foundations ambitious entrepreneurial expats. Business conditions are good, while entrepreneurial environment in se cities creates a better work/life balance expats. Wher it down to having second best broadband speed in world (Hong Kong), world s biggest airport hubs (London and Dubai) 3 or a regulatory environment which allows you to start a small business in only a few days (Singapore) 4, se cities enable expat entrepreneurs to set up and succeed. 87 expats (who have an opinion on viability starting a business in country) say Singapore a good place to start a business, followed by Dubai (86), Hong Kong and London (both 85). Th compares with global average 56. Unsurpringly, economic strength an important consideration entrepreneurs. In Singapore and Hong Kong, expats report high optimm about ir economic prospects, with 78 and 60 respectively saying y are confident about local economy. Th compares with global average 48. The results support view from World Bank 5 that Singapore and Hong Kong rank as first and third places in world ease doing business. London perfect place entrepreneurs looking to broaden ir skills. More expats in London say move re helped m learn new skills than any or location (64 compared with global average 43). In Dubai, re are twice as many entrepreneurial expats as global average (9 compared with global average 4), with 56 attracted by ir confidence in economy. Over two thirds (68) also say Dubai fers political stability, providing furr benefits those who want to run ir own business. Wherever entrepreneur expats decide to run ir own business, doing so does not seem to significantly affect ir work/ life balance. In fact, majority (58) who move to start a business are more likely to report an improvement in ir work/ life balance, compared with 50 all expats, and 57 say y are more fulfilled than y were bee moving. Long known as a destination economic and career prospects, Middle East leads way in fering high salaries, generous employee benefits and material incentives. A third (33) expats living in region are on permanent expat contracts, which typically fer se types benefits, compared to global average. For expats considering a move to Middle East region, three key contractual benefits are fered to more employees re than in or expat destinations. Health and medical allowances (70), annual trips home and airfare allowances (67), and accommodation allowances (60) are all far more likely to be fered as part expat contracts in region than in any or part world. In Oman, 80 expats are given airfare allowances trips home. Th compares to just 33 expats globally who receive th benefit. In Qatar and United Arab Emirates, 75 and 55 expats respectively say y enjoy an accommodation allowance (compared with global average 33). Th helpful given that majority expats in United Arab Emirates (79) and Qatar (70) say cost housing higher than in ir home country. For expats living outside Middle East, contractual benefits in ir packages are less common, though not unusual. Globally, more than half (5) expats receive health and medical allowances and over a fifth () enjoy a relocation allowance. Outside Middle East, expats prae or aspects ir employment. In Australia, New Zealand and Ireland, contracts without se types benefits are common. Only 0 expats in Ireland receive a relocation allowance, while expats in Australia receive money shipping personal effects (compared with 3 expats globally). In place se benefits, expats highlight ability to learn new skills at work and a strong sense job satfaction. For just over three in five (6) expats in Australia, work/life balance better than at home (compared with global average 50), while 79 expats in Ireland feel work culture better or as good as at home (compared with global average 67). Benefits expats in Middle East receive from ir employer www.gulf-times.com/eco.-bus.0news/56/details/44053/singapore,-hong-kong-and-japan-have-fastest-internet-worldwide 3 www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/transport/3766/dubai-overtakes-heathrow-to-become-worlds-busiest-airport.html 4 www.doingbusiness.org/data/exploreeconomies/singapore/starting-a-business 5 data.worldbank.org/indicator/ic.bus.ease.xq/countries/w 70 33 health and medical allowances 67 permanent expat contract 8 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad annual trip(s) home / airfare allowances 9
Career progression and fulfilment on fer expats in Switzerland Expats find work/life balance in Europe Switzerland ranks first in Economics league table, as it fers expats opportunity to experience career success and high salaries in a well-balanced, appealing environment. Unlike some or countries in Europe, Switzerland has a low and stable unemployment rate 6. Expats have a high level economic confidence about country, with over three-quarters (77) saying y are confident about local economy, compared with global average just 48. A thriving centre business, 53 expats say Switzerland a good place career progression (compared to global average 4). In addition, 5 say ir work more fulfilling than back at home, whereas only 9 say opposite. Expats can also improve ir financial wellbeing by living in Switzerland. There are three main financial benefits according to expats living in country; receiving a higher salary than at home (expats earn over USD80,000 p.a. on average), enjoying greater dposable income and being able to save more. Expats say life about more than just salary in Switzerland. Seven in 0 (70) expats report an overall improvement in ir quality life after moving re (compared with global average 53). The financial benefits expats living in Switzerland Despite number career-driven expats going to Switzerland, many find it relatively easy to strike a balance between work and life. Around three in five (59) report a better work/life balance after moving to country and only 8 say opposite, meaning expats can advance ir careers without sacrificing ir social or family life. The European economies Germany, Sweden, Nerlands and Switzerland top career rankings, fering a balance career advancement and job security without making expats comprome on ir home life. That balance reflects a common trait in se countries a rewarding but stable work environment, while Sweden and Nerlands rank second and fifth ir willingness to embrace diversity in workplace. Economic confidence strong in se countries. Over four in five (8) expats in Germany are confident about local economy, a country with strong financial and manufacturing industries. Economic confidence also strong in Switzerland (77) and Sweden (67) compared with 47 in Europe as a whole and 48 globally. Strong economies mean good career prospects and Switzerland and Germany stand out as locations career progression in particular. Around half (53 and 49 respectively) say ir career has progressed quicker since moving re, compared with global average 4. In se countries, most expats are on local employment contracts, with 78 expats in Sweden using th type contract, more than anywhere else in world. Likewe, 68 expats in Germany, 65 in Switzerland and 6 in Nerlands are on local contracts, all above global average 54 The benefits working in se countries do not come at expense an expat s personal life, as each se destinations ranks in top five countries globally best working culture. In Sweden example, those working in country can regularly work from home and adjust ir working hours to suit ir lifestyle. 7 As a result, 7 expats in country say work/life balance better than in ir country origin and 67 say same about working culture, compared to global averages 50 and 39 respectively. 65 57 63 60 5 7 work.sweden.se/living-in-sweden/swedh-business-culture/ 39 Switzerland Global average Have more dposable income Earn a higher salary Able to save more 7 Q: Do you have less, about same or more dposable income in your host country? Q: Thinking about career prospects expats in your host country, which, if any following statements do you agree with? A: I earn more than I would in my home country. (Base: All respondents) Q: Are you able to save less, about same or more in your host country? expats in Sweden say ir work/life balance better 0 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 6 www.local.ch/jobs/article/unemployment-rate-falls--third-straight-month
Experience Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 3
Experience League table The Experience league table ranks each country or territory using a score that summares expats views on nine key questions concerning experience y have in ir adopted country. Three se questions cover an expat s lifestyle ( example, ir quality life); a furr three look at people around m ( example, how easily y integrate with local people); and final three concern ease setting up ( example, finding accommodation). Furr details methodology th league table can be found in The research section at end report. Country New Zealand Experience overall Rank Lifestyle People Setting up Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank Score 0.67 0.64 0.7 0.65 Spain 0.6 0.69 4 0.68 9 0.49 Singapore 3 0.6 0 0.56 3 0.68 0.59 Australia 4 0.59 3 0.60 7 0.63 4 0.54 Taiwan 5 0.58 0.53 0.7 8 0.50 Malaysia 7 0.49 3 0.46 6 0.5 7 0.50 United Arab Emirates 8 0.48 5 0.45 4 0.57 7 0.4 Italy 9 0.48 8 0.57 6 0.57 37 0.30 Czech Republic 0 0.48 5 0.5 0.54 0.38 Turkey 0.47 7 0.49 7 0.57 6 0.37 Vietnam 0.47 6 0.45 8 0.57 0.39 United States United Kingdom South Africa 3 0.46 0.47 3 0.54 3 0.38 4 0.46 30 0.44 4 0.53 5 0.4 5 0.46 0 0.48 38 0.43 0.48 Switzerland 6 0.46 3 0.53 9 0.5 33 0.33 Philippines 7 0.45 3 0.43 8 0.5 6 0.4 Ireland 8 0.45 3 0.43 3 0.58 3 0.34 Canada 6 0.57 7 0.57 5 0.64 6 0.5 Nerlands 9 0.45 4 0.46 7 0.5 7 0.36 Bahrain 7 0.57 6 0.50 8 0.6 3 0.58 India 30 0.43 8 0.44 3 0.5 30 0.35 Thailand 8 0.53 4 0.53 5 0.53 5 0.5 Argentina 3 0.4 8 0.49 34 0.49 38 0.30 Mexico 9 0.5 9 0.57 5 0.57 4 0.4 Indonesia 3 0.4 34 0.39 30 0.5 3 0.35 Oman 0 0.5 0.47 9 0.6 0.47 Belgium 33 0.4 33 0.4 36 0.44 9 0.40 Hong Kong 0.5 7 0.44 0.60 0 0.49 Qatar 34 0.4 36 0.36 3 0.50 4 0.37 Germany 0.50 0.55 0 0.60 8 0.36 Saudi Arabia 35 0.4 35 0.37 37 0.43 3 0.4 Japan 3 0.50 6 0.57 6 0.63 36 0.30 France 4 0.50 4 0.58 0.54 5 0.37 Sweden 5 0.50 5 0.58 9 0.55 9 0.36 Russia 6 0.50 9 0.48 0.60 8 0.40 China 36 0.4 38 0.34 0 0.55 34 0.33 Brazil 37 0.39 9 0.44 33 0.49 39 0.4 Egypt 38 0.39 37 0.36 35 0.48 35 0.3 Kuwait 39 0.36 39 0.30 39 0.39 0 0.40 Scores are rounded to two decimal places in league table 4 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 5
When do expats feel like locals? First-time expats rewarded going abroad Becoming an expat first time can be exciting, full challenges and above all rewarding. Making first move abroad more likely to be people s own decion, rar than ir employer s, while reasons going suggest expats want to improve ir own lives in one way or anor. Unlike expats who have spent time living abroad bee, firsttimers are less likely to have moved because y were sent by ir employer. Only first-timers go abroad th reason, compared to 0 repeat expats. Career development important th group expats. They are just as likely to move abroad to improve job prospects and seek new challenges as repeat expats, even if that opportunity not presented by ir employer. However, y are more likely to move abroad to improve ir quality life. Over two in five (4) go abroad th reason, compared to just 33 repeat expats. First-time expats are rewarded ir decion both in terms ir career development and ir experience living overseas. Nearly half th group (45) say ir new country has given m a chance to learn new skills, compared to just who dagree. Likewe, 47 find ir work more fulfilling, compared to only 4 who dagree. For first-timers who are focused on experience rar than finances, better work/life balance welcome. Over half (5) agree th balance better than in ir home country, compared to only 3 who say opposite. While popular destinations first time living as an expat include expat hubs United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates and Abu Dhabi, firsttimers experience little difficulty settling in. Indeed, y are better at taking opportunity to experience a whole new culture than repeat expats in many ways. For example, more first-timers (63) say y have integrated well with local people and culture than repeat expats (58). Th also true attitudes to ming friendships. Only 38 say y sociale more with expat friends than locals, compared to 46 repeat expats. Ultimately, re are two rewards expats moving abroad with intention immersing mselves quickly in local life. Nearly half first-timers (47) feel at home within a year and many never look back, staying in ir new home a long time nearly three in five first-timers (57) have been in ir adopted home over five years, compared to 5 all expats. First-time expats Are integrating well with local people and culture Say y felt at home within a year Moved abroad to improve ir quality life The length time it takes to settle into a new life abroad relatively short expats, though reasons why differ. For almost half (48) expats, it takes less than a year ir adopted country to feel like home. For 6 change instant. For expats looking to feel instantly at home, n Bahrain, Spain and Philippines are good destinations, as 8, 4 and 4 expats respectively say ir new host country felt like home from ir first day re. The importance making new friends a key part feeling at home with over half (5) expats saying th most Reasons expats feel at home in ir new country important milestone m. Th particularly true expats living in Australia, where 65 say th. Th not a problem however, as three in five (57) expats in country say making friends easy, compared to only 7 who dagree. As well as making friends, 38 expats globally say understanding local culture essential to settling in. The final part feeling at home learning and understanding language. Th a major milestone 8 expats and especially those in Brazil, where 60 say it important. Understanding language plays a unique role in feeling at home in Italy, more so than anywhere else in world. Almost a quarter (4) expats in country say that when y start dreaming in Italian when y feel at home nearly three times higher than global average 9. Regardless what it takes expats to settle in, one group feels at home far quicker than all ors. Almost half (49) expats who moved abroad to retire say it took less than six months to feel at home. In comparon, only a third (33) expats aged 8 to 34 settle in th quickly. 5 Making friends and/or developing ir social life 38 Starting to understand local culture and etiquette 8 Successfully using local language 3 Taking part in local or community events or initiatives Being sure ir family were enjoying life in ir new country Q: Which following milestones most played a part in helping you to feel a strong connection with your host country? Please select up to three. (Base: All respondents) 6 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 7
77 expats living in New Zealand say ir quality life better New Zealand and Spain lead way life experience New Zealand ranks first in Experience league table, with Spain following close behind in second. Expats in se countries identify quality life, richness culture and ease settling in as main reasons ir positive experience living re. In New Zealand, expats have access to familyfriendly amenities, and high environmental standards, which toger make a memorable experience. Almost four in five (77) expats living re say ir quality life better than at home and well over half (63) say making friends has been easy. In particular, expats in New Zealand comment on ease setting up finances, healthcare and accommodation. Expats also say settling in relatively easy, with 35 agreeing that y felt at home instantly or within six months, compared to global average 3. One opportunity from living in New Zealand adventure fered by country s scenery and geography, and expats are taking advantage th. Nearly three in five (57) agree y have become more physically active since move to country, compared to just 5 who dagree. Close behind New Zealand Spain, which best place in Europe expats wanting to enjoy life. Rar than living mostly in expat bubble, experience-hungry expats look local culture following ir move to country. Over seven in 0 (7) expats say y enjoy immersing mselves in culture Spain. Integrating with local community important to expats in country and th made easier by mastering local language. Nearly half (49) expats in Spain say th has played a part in m feeling a strong connection with country, while 8 are learning to speak Spanh. Over two in five (4) say y felt at home having understood local culture and etiquette. Experienced expats make a home in world s emerging economies Expats heading to emerging economies world say se countries are on up as destinations to live and work. Th typified by fact that those who moved to se countries are far more optimtic about future ir countries than those living in developed economies Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom and United States. More than two out five (4) expats living in world s emerging economies 8 say country y live in getting better whereas only a quarter (5) believe opposite. In contrast, only 5 in developed economies believe ir adopted home getting better. Over half (56) expats who choose se emerging economies have already spent time living overseas on a previous occasion. Th experience helps m acclimate quickly, with 5 saying y felt at home within a year, compared to 4 those living in developed economies. Generous employment packages are also on fer in se countries and over half expats enjoy annual airfare and accommodation allowances. Working in education most common pression in developing nations, with 5 expats employed in th field. Financial services (), engineering and construction (0) and marketing (0) are or popular pressions. Forming new friendships easier too. Nearly three in five (58) say y have found it easy to do so, compared to only 5 who say opposite. Th compares favourably with expats living in developed nations, where 50 say y have found it easy to m those friendships. Expats in world s emerging economies clearly look to ir peers to m those friendships. 58 expats in emerging markets say y have found it easy to m new friendships Nearly half (49) say y spend more time with or expats and only a quarter (5) say y spend more time socialing with locals. In contrast, ming friendships living in developed economies more a local affair with only 8 saying y spend more time with or expats. Language anor area where expats living in se parts world differ. Only 5 those living in emerging nations say y are learning local language, compared to 67 in developed markets. 8 MSCI classification emerging economies. Th includes Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Egypt, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Qatar, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey and United Arab Emirates. 8 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 9
7 Life abroad gives Brith expats a healthy glow expats in Latin America say y are integrating well with local people and culture Latin America s scenery, culture and adventure enjoyed by repeat expats The top three destinations Brith expats The top three destinations Latin America emerges as a popular destination repeat expats who priorite life s experiences over or things. Over half (53) expats in region say experience life abroad what matters most to m (compared with global average 4). Many expats highlight Latin America s ability to fer new challenges, ease integrating with locals and region s cuine. Many expats living in South America are on ir second, third or more period living abroad. Th group repeat expats clearly has an idea what y enjoy most about life abroad and has identified it in region. Indeed, only South and Central Asia attracts more repeat expats than Latin America. Only 39 expats in Latin America 30 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad Brith families enjoy a healthy, outdoor lifestyle in ir new lives abroad as y move to picturesque destinations overseas. Expats moving from United Kingdom are motivated by prospect improving ir quality life (47 say th compared with global average 37) and many choose outdoor living and vibrant cultures Australia, Spain and France. take advantage ir new environment to live healthier lives. The majority adults (53) become more active, with only 7 reducing amount exerce y do (th compares with global averages 44 and 5 respectively). Th pattern just as strong among children, with 40 Brith parents seeing an increase in amount sport ir children play. The wear in se countries plays a role in Brith expats decion to go re with Brits almost twice as likely to priorite climate when moving (8 compared with 5 expats globally). Yet Brith expats also Brith expats Latin America may not be a long term destination expats only The top three destinations Brith expats 36 have lived in region more than five years. However, it For first-timers and repeat expats a place that helps build strong alike, Latin America has plenty relationships, with 36 expats to fer. The diverse culture The top three saying y have found a long- Brith expats region in particular cited 3 destinations term partnerduring ir time by expats and nearly two thirds 3 re. Similarly, two in five (40) (65) say y enjoy immersing say move has brought m mselves in it. Expats find 3 relationship with closer in ir it easy to fit in and 7 in ir exting partner, compared region say y have found it to only 3 who dagree. easy to integrate with locals and ir culture (compared with 3 The opportunity to strengn global average 6). exting relationships and m new ones, allied with desire Expats prae food too, with to seek a new challenge (43 over two thirds (67) enjoying expats moving to Latin America cooking and eating range say y were seeking th) local cuines on fer (compared fer good reasons expats to with global average 58). consider region. Argentinian (73) and Brazilian (68) cuine are particular favorites among expats. are first-timers (compared with global average 49). Australia, most popular destination Brith expats in survey, also second best location worldwide improving health and increasing exerce levels children (68 expats in Australia say th, twice global average 34). The trend continues in Spain, second most popular destination Brith expats. The majority (55) all expats in country say environment re better than at home. Th has a definite impact on ir health. Almost three in five (59) living in Spain see an improvement in ir health. Regardless where y live, 86 expats from UK say ir health has stayed same or improved since moving. The top three destinations Brith expats9 Australia 9 Spain 8 8 Spain Spain (8) France 9 7 3Australia 7 3 France France (7) Spain 8 3 France 7 Australia (9) Australia 9 Australia 9 Spain 8 3 France 7 Q: Which country are you living in now? (Base: All respondents) Based on number UK survey respondents living as expats. 9 3
Family 3 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 33
Family League table Czech Republic 7 0.38 6 0.33 3 0.45 30 0.37 The Family league table ranks each country or territory using a score that summares expats views on nine key questions concerning family aspects living in ir adopted country. Three se questions cover an expat s relationships ( example, wher y feel close to ir partner); a furr three look at education and childcare ( example, quality childcare and education); and final three examine impact raing children abroad ( example, ease ir children to making friends). Furr details methodology th league table can be found in The research section at end report. Country Family overall Relationships Education and childcare Raing children Sweden 0.54 0.40 0.6 4 0.6 New Zealand Rank Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank Score 0.5 5 0.43 7 0.4 0.7 Singapore 3 0.48 6 0.4 0 0.4 3 0.6 Spain 4 0.47 3 0.43 3 0.39 5 0.58 Germany 5 0.46 0.36 0.48 9 0.54 Bahrain 6 0.46 4 0.43 5 0.37 6 0.57 Mexico 8 0.38 0.45 0 0.3 8 0.38 United States 9 0.38 3 0.36 0.3 0.48 Hong Kong 0 0.38 0 0.37 8 0.33 0 0.44 South Africa 0.38 7 0.3 7 0.35 6 0.47 Belgium 0.38 3 0.30 6 0.4 0.40 Malaysia 3 0.37 6 0.37 5 0.30 9 0.44 Japan 4 0.36 36 0.5 6 0.35 4 0.47 Switzerland 5 0.36 37 0.5 4 0.30 0 0.5 Ireland 6 0.34 33 0.9 3 0.6 7 0.45 Oman 7 0.33 9 0.37 36 0. 0.4 United Kingdom 8 0.33 7 0.37 9 0.8 3 0.34 Argentina 9 0.33 3 0.39 6 0.9 35 0.30 Nerlands 7 0.45 0.37 8 0.4 8 0.56 China 30 0.33 9 0.3 0.3 3 0.34 Canada 8 0.44 8 0.4 9 0.33 7 0.56 Vietnam 3 0.3 5 0.38 3 0.6 34 0.3 Philippines 9 0.43 0.50 0.40 4 0.39 Italy 3 0.3 34 0.9 33 0.5 3 0.40 India 0 0.43 4 0.39 4 0.44 5 0.47 Indonesia 33 0.3 5 0.34 7 0.9 33 0.3 Russia 0.4 9 0.40 9 0.4 8 0.45 Qatar 34 0.30 35 0.7 34 0.5 5 0.39 Australia 0.40 4 0.34 35 0.4 0.63 Egypt 35 0.9 30 0.3 30 0.7 36 0.30 France 3 0.40 3 0.30 5 0.43 3 0.47 Saudi Arabia 36 0.9 39 0.3 8 0.8 9 0.37 Thailand 4 0.40 7 0.4 4 0.38 6 0.38 Taiwan 5 0.39 0 0.40 0.39 7 0.38 Brazil 37 0.9 0.40 39 0.7 37 0.9 Turkey 38 0.5 8 0.3 38 0.8 39 0.5 United Arab Emirates 6 0.39 8 0.37 3 0.30 0.50 Kuwait 39 0.4 38 0.4 37 0. 38 0.6 Scores are rounded to two decimal places in league table 34 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 35
The reasons why people move abroad are diverse, but one reason to join a partner on ir adventure, ten as a result an employer sending m overseas. Th type move can be a challenge, but findings show that expat partners are thriving. Popular destinations relocating partners include United Arab Emirates, Switzerland and United Kingdom, and over half (56) expat partners are aged between 35 and 54. It encouraging ree that when it comes to settling in, se partners ge independent, active lives in ir new home. Almost three in five (59) say ir social life has remained as busy as or become even more active than in ir home country. Relying on a strong social circle particularly important to th group and 5 state that making friends a key milestone to feeling at home. Expats moving abroad with ir partners are more likely to do th by building 36 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad a network friends among or expats. Over half (5) say y tend to sociale more with expats than locals (compared to global average 4). The United Arab Emirates known its strong expat network and 66 partners in Emirates say ir social life as or more active since moving. Seven in 0 (70) say y sociale more with or expats than locals. A social circle not only focus expat partners. Many who join ir partners overseas look to build ir own career or take on a new challenge. Almost two in five (39) say chance to acquire new skills better than in ir host country, compared to 6 who dagree. In addition, say move abroad was partly about a new personal challenge m. Expat partners also see benefits to ir relationship moving overseas. Of those who moved abroad to support ir 63 expats partners in Philippines feel ir move abroad has brought m closer toger in ir relationship Expat partners blossom following ir move abroad partner, over half (54) say th change has brought m closer toger in ir relationship, compared to just 3 who say th not case. Expat partners moving to India, Philippines and Mexico in particular enjoy a closer relationship, with 65, 63 and 6 in se countries agreeing y feel closer to ir partner since moving. Expat parents put down deep roots Parents who move ir family abroad see world in a different way to or expats. Wher it helping ir children take up sport or giving m a better education, expat parents are more likely to stay abroad a long time, valuing continuity th provides ir family. Of those expats who move with ir children, 57 globally say y have stayed in ir new country longer than five years, compared with 50 expats living without children. Expat parents concern a high quality, stable family life one main factors m staying a long time. After making friends, second most important factor helping expat parents feel at home having ir loved ones settled. Among expats with children, 39 said y could only feel at home once ir family were enjoying life abroad. While settling in can take time, New Zealand and Australia are places expat parents find it particularly difficult to leave. In Australia example, 7 parents say y have lived in country more than five years, compared with global average 57. Parents value opportunities ir children in se countries and encourage m to make most an active lifestyle. Expat children in Australia and New Zealand are more likely to have increased amount sport y play than those living in any or nation (7 said th in New Zealand and 58 in Australia compared with global average 8). Japan anor country where parents are likely to stay a long time. Expats in country are almost twice as likely to stay more than five years (74 expat parents surveyed in Japan said th, compared with 40 among remaining expats in country). In a country with some best numeracy and literacy rates in world 0, half (50) expats in Japan say schooling better than at home, compared with only 5 who dagree. And while expats globally are most likely to enrol ir children in international schools, most popular choice in Japan to enrol in state education system in a sign confidence in nation s schooling. 0 www.oecd.org/site/piaac/publications.htm 57 expat parents have lived in ir host country five years or longer 37
Retired expats go native Retired expats immerse mselves in life abroad and rar than opting a quiet or expat-focused lifestyle, have become true members local communities y live in. Less than a third (9) expat retirees say y go out more with expat friends than locals, a much lower figure than global average 4 expats. For a third (33) retirees, key milestone to feeling at home when y join local community events and activities, higher than global average 3. Th approach to life has several benefits retirees, including how quickly y feel at home in ir new country. Nearly two in five (39) retired expats say it takes less than six months to feel at home, while 5 say it takes less than a year. With exception those living abroad to study, no or group expats feels at home more quickly. Retirees say y have clear opportunities to boost ir social life being an expat. Over two in five (43) retired expats say y lead a more active social life than at home, compared with only who dagree. Dcovering new cuines plays a major role in socialing, with 69 retired expats enjoying cooking or eating local food. As a result, 63 retired expats have found it easy to m new friendships abroad. Nearly threequarters (7) believe y are integrating well overall with local people and culture. For some expats, retirement just anor stage life abroad. For ors, move to retire ir first taste expat life. Popular destinations to retire abroad include Spain and France (where 5 and th group go respectively). South East Asia anor attractive destination, with 8 choosing Thailand and Philippines, while 0 pick Mexico. Regardless location, th a rewarding decion as 67 those who moved abroad to retire say ir quality life now higher than back home. Sweden shines expat families Expats rank Sweden as best destination family life, closely followed by New Zealand and Singapore. Expats highlight three factors in particular that make Sweden stand out families: education system, government policies on families, and living environment. For new parents, Swedh Government provides an impressive 480 days leave to look after children, which can be split between both parents. The quality childcare also better than in ir home country, according to 79 parents. The supportive environment family life evident when children go to school in Sweden. Over two thirds (67) expat parents find it simple to arrange ir children s education, while country s free schools model means 77 parents find cost education cheaper than at home. Learning local language not a barrier children, with 58 expat parents saying ir fspring are doing so (compared with global average 5). Sweden s environment positive families too. The country seen as safe and secure by majority (7) expats. Its scenery and temperate climate encourage exerce 53 parents say ir children are leading a healthier and more active lifestyle in country (compared to global average 34). In total, 79 expat parents in Sweden say quality life ir children 79 expat parents in Sweden say overall quality life ir children better better overall than at home, far higher than 58 all expat parents globally. Sweden an excellent place expats looking to start a family. Nearly two in five (39) have found a long-term partner since moving to country and, those moving with an exting partner, country beneficial too. Three in five (60) th group say move to Sweden has brought m closer toger in ir relationship. Retired expats who 69 63 have found it easy to m new enjoy eating and cooking local cuine friendships in ir host country sweden.se/quickfact/parental-leave/ 38 Expat Explorer Balancing life abroad 39