The term “expatriate” or the abbreviated “expat” can signify various meanings based on the individual it pertains to. Historically, prior to the digital age, most expatriates were either assigned overseas for employment or enjoying retirement. The rise of remote work and online entrepreneurs has significantly expanded the number of those residing outside their native country.
In many instances, these [individuals are digital nomads who can reside anywhere](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2020/10/21/location-independent-people-live-anywhere-they-want/), whereas in other situations, they are located where they are due to significant people in their lives, such as partners, spouses, or relatives. Some individuals oppose the term “expatriate,” believing that anyone living abroad should simply be termed an immigrant, arguing that the former carries a sense of elitism or privilege. However, I see them as not truly synonymous.
The distinctions lie in the elements of choice and duration. An expat is *electing* to reside overseas while typically maintaining connections to their home country. An immigrant, on the other hand, usually relocates due to circumstances compelling them to leave their homeland or in pursuit of better financial opportunities abroad. Immigrants commonly have no plans of returning.
Of course, both categories have exceptions, so a Venn Diagram would reveal considerable overlap. You could refer to me as an immigrant, as I likely will not return to the USA. Conversely, a Mexican working in Texas for a year to save money, with no commitment to stay permanently, would be classified as an expat.
Here are several expat categories that can significantly influence your eventual location and lifestyle. There are three primary considerations that contribute to [selecting a destination for relocating abroad](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2019/03/29/choosing-where-to-live-abroad/), but the priorities will vary based on individual circumstances.
### The Digital Nomad Expatriate
If you’re operating from a laptop and can travel with minimal baggage, you can embrace the [digital nomad lifestyle](http://www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-tips-and-articles/meet-the-new-digital-nomads) without being overly concerned about pesky visa restrictions or long-term accommodation. Assuming you don’t have children, you can consider a wide array of locations for your adventures.
As a digital nomad, you can reside for three months or more in numerous countries using just a tourist visa. Nowadays, many countries provide a digital nomad visa option allowing for temporary stays of a year or two.
One of the hosts of the Tropical MBA podcast estimated he could live anywhere globally for $2,500 a month or less if he excluded a few high-cost locations like New York, Tokyo, and Zurich. Based on my own experiences living in four countries, I would concur. In various nations, it could be achievable for less than half that amount. Simply secure an apartment (or a long-term hotel rental) with sufficient internet, [consume local cuisine](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2019/10/07/eat-local-drink-local-travel/) similar to locals, and shop at their grocery stores. When 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, just pack up and move on.
### The Expat Family Abroad
I have authored several articles and have been referenced in the media frequently regarding living abroad affordably as a family. We spent three years abroad in Mexico as a family before my daughter went off to college. (Currently, I fall into the “empty nester couple who is not yet retired” category.)
There are numerous families undertaking this journey across all continents, but it’s not always as straightforward for families as for individuals. Initially, consider your approach to education, particularly if your children are past elementary school, where educational requirements back home are less critical. Also, assess how you will navigate language options. (Full immersion? Enroll in an international school where classes are in English? Home schooling?) Then, refine your list of potential locations to those where you’ll feel both secure and intellectually engaged.
Some parents opt for home schooling their child(ren), which has become easier with the abundance of online resources available now. Others have created alternative education systems in their community if there are sufficient parents willing to collaborate.
Due to the considerations of education and social activities for the children, expat families face more limited options compared to retirees and significantly fewer than nomads, especially if they are not pursuing home schooling.