Community Blogs

Worldwide, Global

• Feb 13

Expat children learn languages faster than adults due to brain flexibility and social motivation. Parents should learn alongside their children to maintain family bonds and support language development.

The Expat Collective

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

• Feb 12

Business etiquette in the UAE centers on respect, hierarchy, and personal relationships. Learn dress codes, gift-giving customs, working hours, and negotiation strategies.

Canberra, Australia

• Feb 12

Moving to Australia? Learn removal methods, sea/air freight costs, customs requirements, and biosecurity rules. Complete 2025 guide with timelines and budgeting tips.

James O

Bangkok, Thailand

• Feb 12

Thailand offers visa-free entry for many nationalities plus specialized visas for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. Learn about tourist, LTR, and citizenship options in 2025.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

• Feb 12

Property security in Playa del Carmen requires multi-layered protection: quality locks, IP cameras, smart alarms, and property management. Gated communities offer 24/7 security.

carlosmendoza

Berlin, Germany

• Feb 12

Comprehensive guide to property renovations in Germany covering financing options, loan amounts up to 90,000 EUR, government subsidies, and legal obligations under the Building Energy Act.

David Miller

Madrid, Spain

• Feb 12

Apply for Spanish permanent residence after 5 years or citizenship after 10 years. Learn eligibility requirements, exemptions, dual nationality rules, and application fees.

Emily Johnson

Global, Global

• Feb 11

Globalization is not new to business, and has advanced considerably over the past two decades due to evolutions in technology and quick, cheap transportation.

The Expat Collective

Brussels, Belgium

• Feb 11

Over a million Belgian residents are self-employed. Learn the essential steps to start a business in Belgium including permits, registration, taxation, and legal structures.

Sophie

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

• Feb 11

The UAE offers robust women's healthcare through public and private providers, covering gynecology, maternity, cancer screenings, and mental health services.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

• Feb 11

Mexico property closing costs run 5-8% of purchase price. Includes acquisition tax (2-4%), notary (1-2%), and fideicomiso setup ($500-2,000) for coastal properties.

carlosmendoza

Paris, France

• Feb 11

To start a business in France as an expat, you need a residence permit or EU citizenship, social security number, and French address-registration takes just four days.

olivia

Pretoria, South Africa

• Feb 11

South Africa's minimum wage is R28.79/hour as of March 2025, while average monthly salary is R28,220, varying significantly by sector and region.

Vienna, Austria

• Feb 10

In Austria, looking after your health is refreshingly simple. With a system that blends public access and private options seamlessly, you’ll find good quality c...

viennalife

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

• Feb 10

Whether you are single or relocating to the UAE with your family, there are certain areas that continue to attract expats in their droves. This helpful guide pr...