NOMAD to EXPAT: What It Takes To Move Abroad

The ultimate guide for Americans to understanding nomads, expats, and which path is right for you.

Thinking about moving out the United States? Whether you are planning a short-term temporary move or are deciding to permanently expatriate, this is your one-stop shop full of resources, tools, and information you will need to research and prepare for your new life abroad.

If you follow each section of this guide, step-by-step, you will have all the tools you need to prepare for a stress-free move abroad.

Bookmark, save, reference, and share this page as you map out your journey to living overseas.

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About the Author

"Hands-down this is the most comprehensive resource guide for anyone looking to live abroad."

Dayvee Sutton is a U.S. TV presenter and travel expert who splits her time living in different parts of the world during different seasons of the year. You can see her on popular national TV shows as the go-to expert or on her travel show “Go! Explore” which can be found on The Weather Channel networks.

Dayvee covers experiences, local cultures, and sustainability. She has also covered expat stories, in particular those stories of Black American expats, since 2016.

Learn more about Dayvee’s work, her journeys abroad, and travel advice by following her social media @dayveesutton.

Nomad

no·mad
/ˈnōˌmad/

an individual who roams about

Expat

ex·pat
/ˌeksˈpat/
informal for: EXPATRIATE

a person who lives outside their native country

The terms expat and digital nomads are commonplace, frequently used, and often conflated. But the bottomline is they are descriptors of people who have decided to live outside of their home country. Finding out which live abroad lifestyle is best for you requires understanding the fundamentals of what makes the these two terms different, and which one fits best with your career path and life goals.

What's an Expat?

An expatriate, often referred to as an “expat,” is a person who temporarily or permanently resides in a country other than their native country. Expatriates are individuals who have chosen to live outside of their home country, either for work, personal, or lifestyle reasons. Expats can include individuals who have relocated for job opportunities, education, retirement, or simply a desire to experience life in a different culture. While technically the same as immigrants or migrants, expats tend to make the move to a new country on a semi-permanent basis, with the intention of eventually returning to their home country (at some point), whereas immigrants generally do not.

Expatriates may maintain connections with their home country, such as family, citizenship, and financial ties, but they are primarily living and working in a foreign country. Expatriate communities can be found all over the world, and they often include people from various nationalities who share the experience of living away from their home countries. Expats can be of any age, from children who have moved abroad with their families, to retirees. In the past, a typical expat would be a man moving abroad for work, but now the face of expats have expanded to include anyone who fits this description.

What’s a Digital Nomad?

A digital nomad is similar to an expat, in that they both leave their home country to work abroad. However, while expats may be expected to work on-site for a particular company, digital nomads work entirely remotely. A digital nomad leverages technology to work remotely and live a location-independent lifestyle. Digital nomads often have the flexibility to travel and live in different places while maintaining their work online. This lifestyle allows them to explore new countries, cultures, and experiences while still earning an income through various digital means.

Key differences between expats and digital nomads

Expats and digital nomads tend to have different lifestyles and motivations. The following breaks down the differences.

  • Expats: Expatriates are individuals who have chosen to live in a foreign country for various reasons, such as work, education, retirement, or personal relationships. Their move is often more permanent or semi-permanent, and they may establish a new life and integrate into the local community.
  • Digital Nomads: Digital nomads are individuals who leverage technology to work remotely and travel frequently. Their lifestyle is characterized by a constant change of location, as they often move from place to place while working online. Their primary focus is on exploring new destinations and experiences.
  • Expats: Expats often have a specific reason for living in a foreign country, which might be related to a job assignment, educational opportunity, or family situation. Often, they work locally in their host country.
  • Digital Nomads: Digital nomads work online and have the flexibility to choose where they work from. They might freelance, work remotely for companies, or run their own businesses.

Both expats and digital nomads are likely to require visas to legally work abroad. However, there are also visas available specifically for digital nomads. Whatever your working intentions, it’s important to check what visa you need before you go abroad, as visas can take months to process.

  • Expats: Generally, working visas can last between 5 to 10 years, after which expats can apply for residency or citizenship in that country. Retirement visas are also available in many countries if expats can prove they have sufficient income/savings.
  • Digital nomads: These visas are relatively new, butwhere available, often require proof of employment and income. These visas can take up to a month to process, and the duration of the visa varies from country to country. Digital nomads can apply to extend their visas if they want to stay in the host country for longer, but this depends on the policy of the host country.
  • Expats: Expats might stay in their host country for an extended period, ranging from a few years to a lifetime.
  • Digital Nomads: Digital nomads typically move more frequently, staying in a location for weeks or months before moving on to a new destination.

Expats and digital nomads should be diligent in checking which form of taxation their host country uses, and whether they are still required to pay tax in their home country.

Expats: Tax for expats is generally more complicated than that of nomads. Unless they are moving to a country that doesn’t charge tax at all, expats will have to carefully examine what kind of tax they are required to pay, on what and when. If an expat is a dual resident, they will need to ensure that they understand both countries’ tax laws, and if there are any double taxation agreements in place. Double taxation agreements are designed to prevent people from being taxed twice on the same income. 

Digital nomads: Typically it is probably easiest for digital nomads to keep their tax residency in their home country and pay taxes there, as changing tax residency each time they move is complex. Digital nomads sometimes also have the option of officially registering in a country that has low tax or doesn’t tax its residents at all.

  • Expats: Expats often seek stability in terms of work, residence, and community integration in their host country.
  • Digital Nomads: Digital nomads prioritize flexibility and variety in their experiences, frequently changing locations and adapting to new environments.
  • Expats: Expats typically aim to integrate into the local culture, build relationships, and become a part of the community for the long-haul. (i.e. join gyms, enroll kids in schools)
  • Digital Nomads: Digital nomads tend to focus on forming connections that serve them during their stay. Although digital nomads may seek local immersive experiences during their visit, they enter communities knowing they are transient. 
  • Expats: Expats often have specific goals for their time abroad, such as career advancement, education, or personal growth.
  • Digital Nomads: Digital nomads prioritize exploring new destinations, embracing a sense of adventure, and combining work with travel experiences.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Being an Expat or Digital Nomad

Digital Nomad
Expat
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Travel freedom
Income can be insecure
Income is more secure
Limited travel opportunities
Make connections all over the world
Constant travel planning
Immersion in a new culture
Distant from home country relationships
Every trip is a new adventure
Can feel lonely
Ability to build community
Culture shock

Top Things To Consider

Before planning your move abroad, we recommend you have clear answers for the following questions.

Do I want to Leave for the Right Reasons?

Are you trying to runaway from something? This is the first thing you should really sit with, because as many people soon find out, personal issues often find wherever you are. However, if you are leaving for safety reasons, then being strategic is also in your best interest. The message here is to take time to clarify your motivations, whether they’re related to work, education, family, adventure, or other reasons. 

Where do I want to move?

It’s a nice fantasy to imagine just spinning a globe and pointing to a destination to live. But the reality is that you must really research potential countries and cities that you will consider taking up residence in. Consider factors like culture, climate, cost of living, safety, and opportunities.

What's the Visa and Immigration Process?

U.S. passports have a lot of privilege in that we can visit so many countries without a visa (without asking for permission in advance) or with a simple and cheap visa process. But, if you are thinking about taking up residence, even if temporarily, you must understand the visa requirements, application process, and any potential restrictions for your chosen destination. Don’t go into this process ignorant and illegal. It could cost you not only big fines but also possible jail time. 

How much will my move cost?

As you are determining your reasons for moving, you also will be considering your budget. The travel community online often suggests from $5000 to $8000 USD per person as a starting budget to move overseas. But, that is just to start. On the low-end, an international move is as cheap as a one-way flight ticket. On the high-end are corporate international relocation packages, where your company pays all the costs to move you abroad.

You’ll also want to check the currency and how far your dollar will go in your prospective new home.

What Are the Job Opportunities?

It’s highly recommended that you already have a work situation in place before deciding to move abroad. If you are taking a sabbatical, gap year, volunteering, or retiring, you should already have your monies in order to finance your stay. However many people may be looking to work abroad, so you’ll want to explore job markets, demand for your skills, and potential employers or industries as a major consideration in deciding the new country you will live in.

How will I support myself financially?

This is the follow-up to the previous question but asks you to take a deeper dive. Like, even though you may have your initial financial plan sorted, do you also have a backup plan? It’s one thing to be down and out at home, but being abroad and without the ability to support yourself makes you an immigrant in another country who is siphoning resources from locals. (Without getting too political, it is important to acknowledge that this is one of the biggest complaints from many citizens everywhere about foreigners in local communities.) So make sure you have a plan in case everything fails, some savings, and even know when it is time to move on (and even move back home) when it is not working out in your new place abroad. For this reason, many countries have minimum income requirements depending on the visa you qualify and apply for.

Before you make your move, you can research the cost of living for your prospective destination. 

How's the Healthcare System?

Even if you are one of the lucky ones who have healthcare in the United States, most plans do not cover you overseas. You’ll want to research how you can access healthcare, the quality, and cost in your destination. Consider private health insurance options or if you will qualify for what local residents have access to.

What's the Local Culture Like?

It’s important to consider that you will move to a place and make a positive impact, rather than cause harm. You’ll want to avoid some pitfalls and baises that are based in colonialism, that you may not even be aware of, and learn about customs, social norms, etiquette, and local practices to help you integrate better.

Can I Speak the Local Language?

It’s not a deal-breaker but can be a game-changer for how easy you are able to navigate your new home. Consider whether you’ll need to learn the language and how it might impact daily life. I’m on a journey to becoming a polyglot and have first learned the best way on how people learn language. With the goal of being conversational (not academic), the best strategy by far is immersion through comprehensible input.

Are you ready to leave home?

This means leaving your friends and family. This is the biggest reason why people decide not to move abroad – because they don’t want to leave their family. Which is understandable, especially if these are important relationships in your life. That’s why considering different strategies for how you can move abroad – like short-term stints away and slow travel – could help you have the best of both worlds.

What am I looking for from new destination that I am not getting here?

Making a list of what you do and don’t like about your current lifestyle and then a corresponding wishlist of what you hope to experience and want to avoid at your new destination is an awesome way to make your move abroad very intentional. It’s a simple, yet very clarifying process that helps you create an action plan for starting your social life, jumping into your hobbies, and building your new community at your new destination. I call it a  Move Abroad Vision Board and made it available for you!  

How Will I Handle Housing?

Ideally, you’ll want to have your housing settled before you arrive. but, often you just don’t want to commit to a place without visiting first, spending some time at the new destination so you can get a feel of the neighborhoods that will suit your preferences and budget. Sometimes you have the luxury of taking a visit beforehand, and other situations you will not. You can do some research online, but you will not truly know until you spend time there. So a great strategy is to get a short-term rental to live in while you get acquainted with the new destination and search in person for your new home. Often, rentals will give discounts for weekly and monthly stays.

What's the Education System Like?

If you have children, you’ll want to spend time looking at education options that align with your expectations and their needs.

The International Schools Database is a FREE resource to start your search.

What About Legal and Tax Considerations?

Most Americans who live abroad never fully emigrate from the U.S. Meaning, even if they never intend to move back, they will likely not give up their U.S. passport. With that, most people are still under obligation to pay taxes back to “Uncle Sam” (the U.S. government). Make sure as you make your move that you understand your legal requirements, taxes, and any necessary paperwork.

What’s Going on Socially, Economically, and Politically?

Let’s face it, it really doesn’t make sense to move to a place that will decrease your quality of life (if you don’t have to). If you’re a Black American, you’ll want to take time to research what you can expect to encounter regarding micro-aggressions and full on aggressions. So consider what challenges you can anticipate. Be realistic about potential challenges like culture shock, language barriers, homesickness, and more.

What are the safety considerations? Research the safety situation in your destination and take necessary precautions. I recommend registering for the U.S. State Department’s STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). This is a great safety net so that in case anything goes down in a country you are visiting, they know to reach and warn you.

Black family in Europe_N&E

Here’s a great resource for Black Americans who are looking for safe places to visit or live.

How Will I Adapt to Climate and Environment?

Consider how you’ll adjust to different weather conditions, local flora, and fauna. I know a story of a young woman who moved to the beach in Mexico and found out that she was actually allergic to that environment. The flora and fauna inflamed respiration issues she didn’t even know she had. She tried many remedies so she could put up with her symptoms in order to stay in her paradise. But eventually had to move back to New York. This seems like an odd case, but many people find out after they have moved that something of their new environment is causing a change in their body. 

What Support Systems Exist?

Consider the availability of social support, community networks, expat groups, or organizations that can assist with the transition. Facebook houses so many great expat groups, even down to your niche. Just search “expats [city/country]”. From there you can find even more niche communities by invites on Whatsapp. Instagram is also a great resource using hashtags.

What's the Plan for Repatriation?

It’s the worst-case scenario, but important to have in place. If you plan to return to your home country eventually, think about how you’ll handle repatriation and reintegration should you die while abroad. Having insurance will take care of the plan and costs, and not put the burden on your loved ones. Repatriation can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Do I Need Legal Assistance?

Depending on the complexities of your move, you might need legal advice for visas, contracts, or other matters.

Am I Prepared for the Unknown?

Keep in mind that as prepared as you may be before your move, there will always be unpredictable circumstance. Ask yourself if you’re ready to handle these unforeseen challenges and surprises. The best mindset is to be reasonable, adaptable and ready to go with the flow.

Challenges

As you work through the questions above, consider these problems people have had historically when thinking about moving abroad.

Remember that while these challenges are common, they can often be managed with careful planning, research, and support. It’s essential to thoroughly research the destination country and its requirements before making the decision to move abroad.

Ways to Live Abroad

This section is meant to show you different strategies people have used to live abroad.

Each option comes with its own requirements, challenges, and opportunities. Additionally, considering factors like language, culture, cost of living, and local regulations will help ensure a successful transition to living in a new country.

  • Digital Nomad Visa

    Digital Nomad Visa

    This type of visa is designed for people who work remotely. If you have a job that you can do from anywhere in the world, you may be eligible for a digital nomad.

  • Study Abroad

    Study Abroad

    Many Americans choose to study abroad during their college years. This allows them to live in a foreign country while pursuing their education.

  • Work Visa

    Work Visa

    Obtaining a work visa in a foreign country is a common way to live and work abroad. Some countries have special programs designed to attract skilled workers from abroad.

  • Working Holiday Visa

    Working Holiday Visa

    This type of visa allows young people (usually between the ages of 18 and 30) to live and work in another country for a limited period of time. Some countries that offer working holiday visas to Americans include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland.

  • Teaching English

    Teaching English

    Americans with a strong command of the English language can find opportunities to teach English as a second language in various countries.

  • Remote Work

    Remote Work

    With the rise of remote work, many Americans have the flexibility to work for a U.S. company while living abroad. This is often called being a "digital nomad."

  • Volunteer

    Volunteer

    Volunteering abroad is another way to live in a different country while giving back to the local community. Take care to research ethical programs.

  • Retirement

    Retirement

    Some Americans choose to retire abroad due to lower costs of living, better weather, and other factors. Countries in Central and South America, as well as parts of Southeast Asia and Europe, are popular retirement destinations.

  • Exchange Programs

    Exchange Programs

    Exchange programs can facilitate living abroad for Americans, whether they're students, professionals, or individuals interested in cultural exchange.

  • New Business

    New Business

    Starting a business abroad can be a way to live in a new country. Some countries have programs that encourage foreign entrepreneurs to set up businesses.

  • Dual Citizenship

    Dual Citizenship

    If someone has a parent or grandparent who was born in another country, they might be eligible for dual citizenship, which can make living abroad easier.

  • Artist or Writer Residency

    Artist or Writer Residency

    Artists, writers, and other creative professionals can apply for residencies in different countries, allowing them to live and work there for a specific period.

  • Join Int'l Orgs

    Join Int'l Orgs

    Working for an international organization like the United Nations, World Health Organization, or various NGOs can provide opportunities to live abroad.

  • Military or Gov Service

    Military or Gov Service

    Military personnel and government employees might have opportunities to be stationed or work abroad as part of their service.

Prepare to Move

Here's a pre-move quick list to help make your move a success.

  • Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Obtain the necessary visa or permit to legally stay in the destination country.

U.S. Passport

Make sure to apply or renew your passport several months in advance of actually needing it. If you already have one, make sure that it is valid for at least six months after you return home and you must have two or more blank pages, for most destinations. Otherwise, some countries may not let you enter.

The simplest way to get your visa

Visas are your gateway to enter another country. Luckily for U.S. Passport holders, we have some of the best passport privilege in the world which gives us a lot of access to many countries visa-free, and even more with just an application. Use this tool to check if you need a visa based on your passport and destination.

  • Create a budget for the cost of living in the new country.
  • Set up a local bank account or research how to manage finances abroad.
  • Consider currency exchange rates and have access to sufficient funds.

Save $ to Transfer Money Internationally

Making a domestic money transfer has always been relatively simple, but an international money transfer can be more tricky and comes with more fees. Wise is an online platform that anyone can use to transfer money between two bank accounts, regardless of location. When I lived in Mexico, I was able to pay my landlord the rent in this way. It minimized so many fees it would normally take to process a money exchange. They claim it saves you 3x when sending money abroad.

Travel credit cards are game changers

If you're planning a lifestyle where frequent travel is in your future, then you'll probably want to have a few credit cards that will reward you when you spend on things you'll already be doing. If you're interested in learning how to get started with points and miles check out my free 101 guide. Access with the button below.

Quick Access to Currency Exchange Rates

This is one of the first travel apps I’ve ever installed and probably my most used when traveling internationally. When conversion rates aren’t easy to do the math in your head (i.e. for a long while the Mexican Peso was 20 to 1 U.S. Dollar), I just tap the app and quickly calculate how much an item or service will really cost me.

  • Research local healthcare options and understand how to access medical care.
  • Obtain health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay.
  • Bring necessary medications and medical records.

Travel medical insurance

Safety Wing is one of the top recommended and used medical insurance for Digital Nomads. Nearly all of the DN I personally know use this one because it's the most comprehensive and affordable. You can buy it even if you are already abroad.

Travel insurance

When looking for good travel insurance plans, you want to find coverage that suits your particular trip needs. World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance policies for more than 150 activities, emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

  • Research and secure temporary accommodations upon arrival.
  • Explore long-term housing options and understand local rental processes.

The simplest way to get your visa

Although you may see some of the same properties on VRBO as on Airbnb - I think VRBO protects both parties better. There are more than 2 million bookable vacation rentals and , Vrbo only offers whole places - not share spaces.

Stay with a local

Homestay.com connects host families with students and independent travelers looking for accommodation. The Homestay community offers you the opportunity to live with a local and to truly discover your destination. They offer a wide selection of rooms for both long and short-term accommodation that offer great value for money, and can buy you time as you look for a long-term place to stay.

Today’s world of tech, you should be able to use your devices nearly everywhere. But, here’s some tech recommendations that us world travelers have used for years.

U.S. traveler's top cellphone plans

The go-to provider

Travelers often like using T-Mobile because if the international roaming benefits. T-Mobile offers plans that include free international data and text messaging in many countries, making it convenient for travelers to stay connected without incurring high roaming charges. Additionally, T-Mobile's plans often come with unlimited data, allowing travelers to use maps, social media, and communication apps seamlessly while abroad.

Hey Google!

Google Fi is a good option for travelers because of its international coverage and flexible plans. Google Fi offers service in over 200 countries and territories, allowing travelers to use their phones with ease while abroad without excessive roaming fees. The plan automatically connects to local networks for calls, texts, and data, often at no additional cost. Google Fi also offers high-speed data in most destinations, which can be very convenient for staying connected and using navigation apps.

If you’re traveling for more than a month, it’s worth it to get local SIM cards.

Airalo E-Sim

E-SIM cards are a good for long-term travelers, offering flexibility, convenience, and savings. With the ability to hold multiple numbers on one device, travelers can effortlessly maintain local and international communication. Switching networks is a breeze, eradicating the need for physical SIM swaps and enabling seamless connectivity across borders. E-SIM activation can often be done online, making it a hassle-free choice for newcomers. Cost-effective plans, remote management options, and reduced environmental impact further enhance the appeal.

Hassle-free Intn'l Calls

This is the most used communications app around the world. When you meet knew friends or even calling services, they will likely recommend that you contact them on Whatsapp. The best part of using the service is that when you communicate (i.e. send texts, calls or video chats), it won’t run up your cell phone bill. You can use it via mobile data or Wi-Fi. Download the app from your app store.

Log-in with Confidence

It’s highly recommended that you do not rely on public Wi-Fi while abroad, but your can protect yourself against scammers using a VPN (virtual private network). I’ve used NordVPN for years and a great benefit is that I can mask my location and direct it as if I am back in the U.S., which allows me to access the website and streaming services, that would otherwise be blocked in the destination I would be in.

  • Gather essential documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.
  • Organize copies of important documents and keep them accessible during your move.
  • Learn the language of the country you want to live in. 
  • Take classes for hobbies and sports you enjoy.
  • Network with other Americans who live in the country you want to live in.

This can be a great way to get help and support when you first arrive.

Download our move abroad planning guide

Visit our Living Abroad Resources Page and select a checklist to strategically create a plan of action that best suits the type of move you will make.

Move Responsibly & Ethically

It’s important to note that modern travel is deeply rooted in colonialism. The infrastructure and transportation networks developed during colonial times continue to facilitate contemporary travel, allowing people from affluent nations to traverse the globe with relative ease. However, this convenience often comes at the cost of perpetuating existing power imbalances and unequal access to resources, mirroring the dynamics of colonial domination and control. That means when we travel, and even move to a new place we should be mindful of the impact we have on the community. The overall goal should be not to cause harm. The strategy should be to immerse in a community. You want to avoid gentrification and be very conscious about the way you navigate the new place.

Read our white paper

Learn more about implementing ethical and sustainability principles by visiting my Responsible Travel Guide

learn more about our story

Black American Expats Documentary

Click Here to Learn More About the Project

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There isn’t any usable data tracking who, when, and why people are emigrating from the United States. So we are gathering our own. In particular, we are looking to gather information regarding Black Americans. Participation in this survey can remain anonymous and will only be used for purposes of our reporting on this subject.  

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Resources

Visit our LIVING ABROAD RESOURCES PAGE. It's your go-to guide for moving abroad, offering planning tools, cost of living comparisons, moving resources, and expat community connections—all in one place. Simplify your transition with essential tips, gear recommendations, and vital info on visas, finances, and more.

Your questions answered

FAQ's

The cost of moving abroad varies widely based on factors like the destination, lifestyle, and whether you’re moving alone or with family. On average, you should budget between $5,000 to $15,000 for initial expenses, including flights, visas, accommodation, and other setup costs.

Moving abroad can be challenging, but with proper planning and preparation, it’s manageable. Factors like visa requirements, language barriers, and finding housing or employment can be obstacles, but researching and using available resources can help smooth the transition.

Take advantage of the resources on this site to help plan, organize, and execute your move abroad.

Americans can move abroad by securing a visa that fits their purpose, such as work, study, or retirement. Research the specific requirements for your chosen country, gather the necessary documents, and prepare for any cultural or legal differences. Consulting with immigration experts or using relocation services can make the process smoother.

Countries like Canada, Mexico, and Portugal are often considered easier for Americans to move to due to favorable visa policies, proximity, and established expat communities. Each country has its own requirements, so it’s important to research and plan accordingly.

Canada, Mexico, and Costa Rica are among the most popular destinations for US citizens, offering a mix of proximity, favorable immigration policies, and quality of life.

Some countries, like Italy and Spain, have regions or towns offering financial incentives to attract new residents. These offers are often aimed at revitalizing rural areas and typically come with specific requirements.

 

The best country depends on individual preferences, such as climate, cost of living, language, and lifestyle. Popular choices include Canada for its similarity to the US, Portugal for its climate and visa options, and Costa Rica for its laid-back lifestyle.

The top countries from which people emigrate to the US are Mexico, China, India, the Philippines, and El Salvador, driven by a mix of economic, educational, and family reasons.

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