The term “expatriate” or its shorter form “expat” can signify various meanings based on the individual it describes. Prior to the internet era, most expatriates were either assigned overseas for work or were retired individuals. The rise of remote work and online entrepreneurs has significantly expanded the population of those residing outside their homeland.
In numerous instances, these [individuals are digital nomads capable of living anywhere](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2020/10/21/location-independent-people-live-anywhere-they-want/), while others find themselves in their current location due to significant relationships, such as partners, spouses, or family. Some individuals prefer not to utilize the term “expatriate,” asserting that anyone living abroad should simply be categorized as an immigrant, believing the former term conveys pretentiousness or suggests privilege. However, I see these terms as not entirely interchangeable.
The distinction lies in the aspects of choice and longevity. An expat is *opting* to reside abroad and typically maintains connections to their country of origin. An immigrant, on the other hand, generally relocates due to challenges prompting their departure from their homeland or in pursuit of better financial prospects in a region with superior economic chances. Immigrants often do not intend to return.
Clearly, exceptions exist for both definitions, so a Venn Diagram would illustrate some overlap. Personally, I may never return to the USA, so feel free to label me an immigrant if you wish. A Mexican who comes to Texas for a year to work in construction with no plans of staying is an expat.
Here are several expat classifications that can significantly influence your outcome and overall life experience. Three primary considerations go into [selecting a destination for relocating abroad](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2019/03/29/choosing-where-to-live-abroad/), and in all three, priorities will vary based on individual circumstances.
### The Digital Nomad Expatriate
If you’re capable of working via a laptop and can travel lightly, you can embrace the [digital nomad lifestyle](http://www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-tips-and-articles/meet-the-new-digital-nomads) without much concern regarding challenging visa regulations and long-term accommodation options. Assuming you have no children, schooling isn’t a consideration, thus permitting you to explore a multitude of potential destinations.
As a digital nomad, you can legally stay for three months or longer in numerous countries on a tourist visa. Many nations now offer digital nomad visas that allow for temporary stays of one or two years.
One host of the Tropical MBA podcast estimated that he could sustain himself anywhere globally for $2,500 a month or less if we exclude a few high-cost locales like New York, Tokyo, and Zurich. Based on my own experiences living in four different countries, I concur. In many places, you could manage on less than half of that. Just locate an apartment (or extended hotel stay) with reliable internet, [eat as the locals do](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2019/10/07/eat-local-drink-local-travel/) and purchase groceries as they would. Once you reach the [tourist visa](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2016/05/25/where-can-you-live-more-than-3-months-on-a-tourist-visa/) duration allowed locally, simply pack up and move on.
### The Expat Family Abroad
I have penned several articles and have been frequently cited in the media regarding how families can live abroad inexpensively. We spent three years as a family in Mexico before my daughter left for college. (Currently, I belong to the “empty nester couple who is not yet retired” category.)
Numerous families undertake this journey across every continent, yet it’s often more challenging than for a single adult. Begin by addressing how you will handle education, particularly for children beyond elementary age, where it tends to matter less and there are fewer testing obligations back home. Consider how you will manage language choices as well. (Complete immersion? International schools offering instruction in English? Homeschooling?) Then, refine the prospective locations to those where you feel both safe and intellectually stimulated.
Some parents opt to homeschool their children, which has become more feasible due to the abundance of online resources available. For instance, families can utilize [homeschool math](https://brighterly.com/homeschool-math/) to assist their children in keeping pace with their studies. Others might collaborate with nearby families to create communal learning experiences within their neighborhood.
Given that you have schooling and social activities to consider for the children,