The term “expatriate” or the abbreviated “expat” can signify a variety of concepts depending on the individual it relates to. Prior to the advent of the internet, the majority of expatriates were either assigned overseas for their employment or were enjoying retirement. The rise of remote working and internet entrepreneurs has significantly expanded the number of individuals residing outside their native country.
In numerous instances, these [individuals are digital nomads and might be residing anywhere](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2020/10/21/location-independent-people-live-anywhere-they-want/), while in other cases, they find themselves in their current locale due to a significant relationship, such as a partner, spouse, or family member. There are some who oppose the term “expatriate,” asserting that everyone living abroad should simply be referred to as an immigrant, arguing that the former term carries an air of pretentiousness or suggests privilege. However, in my opinion, these terms are not truly synonymous.
The distinction lies in the aspects of choice and permanence. An expat is *choosing* to reside overseas and typically maintains connections to their home country. Conversely, an immigrant is usually relocating due to challenges prompting them to leave their native country or in search of superior economic prospects. Immigrants generally have no plans of returning.
Undoubtedly, both categories have exceptions, so there is indeed some overlap, much like in a Venn Diagram. I personally may never return to the USA, so you may refer to me as an immigrant if you wish. A Mexican individual arriving in Texas for construction work for a year to save money, without intentions of remaining, would be considered an expat.
Here are some expat classifications that can greatly influence your final destination and lifestyle. There are three primary factors that play a role in [selecting a location for relocating abroad](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2019/03/29/choosing-where-to-live-abroad/), and in every instance, priorities will vary according to your circumstances.
### The Digital Nomad Expatriate
If you are working on a laptop and can travel minimally, you can embrace the [digital nomad lifestyle](http://www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-tips-and-articles/meet-the-new-digital-nomads) without needing to worry much about tricky visa regulations and long-term accommodation. Provided you don’t have children, educational considerations won’t restrict your options, making many regions viable choices.
As a digital nomad, you can often stay for three months or longer in many countries on a tourist visa. Nowadays, numerous nations provide a digital nomad visa allowing you to reside for a year or two temporarily.
One of the hosts of the Tropical MBA podcast suggested he could live anywhere globally for $2,500 a month or less, excluding a few exceptional cities like New York, Tokyo, and Zurich. Based on my own experiences living in four different nations, I would concur. In various countries, you could manage this for even less than half that budget. Just secure an apartment (or a long-term hotel booking) with reliable internet, [eat like a local](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2019/10/07/eat-local-drink-local-travel/) would eat, and shop where locals do for groceries. When you reach the local [tourist visa](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2016/05/25/where-can-you-live-more-than-3-months-on-a-tourist-visa/) duration limit, simply pack and move on.
### The Expat Family Abroad
I’ve authored several articles and have been quoted in the media quite a bit regarding living abroad on a budget as a family. We resided as a family in Mexico for a total of three years before my daughter went off to college. (Now I fit into the “empty nester couple not yet retired” category.)
Many families are undertaking this journey on every continent, yet it often proves more challenging than it is for single individuals. Start by considering educational arrangements, particularly for those beyond elementary school where requirements at home are less stringent. Reflect on how you’ll handle language choices as well. (Full immersion? An international school in English? Homeschooling?) Then refine your list of potential locations to those where you’ll feel both secure and intellectually engaged.
Some parents opt for homeschooling their children, which has become much simpler with the abundance of online resources available. Others have created alternative education options within their community if there are enough parents willing to contribute.
Given that you need to consider education and social activities for the kids, expat families face fewer options than retirees in the following category and significantly fewer than nomads, especially if they are not homeschooling.