An estimated 2 million to 2.5 million French expatriates are registered with the French consulate abroad. In reality, this figure is higher if you add up the number of unregistered expatriates, to come closer to 3 million French expatriates. More globally, with no less than 230 million people living in a country other than their own, figures from a recent study show that expatriation has become a normal part of the mobility landscape. If you’ve got the itch, if you’re tempted by expatriation but don’t dare take the plunge, we’ve got 10 good reasons to help you make up your mind.
Mastering a foreign language
“Fluent English”: who hasn’t dreamed of writing that on their CV and having it be true? And yes, French and languages don’t mix. So many people write down “fluent English” without necessarily managing a conversation.
With expatriation, the question no longer arises. It’s anopportunity to work on and perfect one or moreforeign languages. Depending on the country, you can learn the local language (a must if you want to fit in) and English, which remains the most widely spoken language in the world, whether in your professional life or by meeting other foreign expatriates. If you really want to make progress, a word of advice: don’t just stay between French people.
Add to your CV
As we mentioned in the previous point, a foreign language is already a significant plus on your CV. But the experience itself is a professional enrichment and says a lot about your personality. This shows that you’re mobile, open-minded and not afraid of change– qualities that recruiters look for.
Seize new professional opportunities
Employment in France is not at its best at the moment, and some countries are offering more opportunities to people with atypical backgrounds, or those who are simply too young to take up positions of responsibility in France, but who are ready to put their heart and soul into their work. If you’re unemployed, or a recent graduate, then going abroad can make it easier for you to find a job.
If it’s your employer who suggests you move abroad for work, it’s probably to offer you a position with greater responsibilities or to move up in the hierarchy. Jump at the chance! To refuse would be to deprive yourself of an incredible opportunity to accelerate your career.
A more attractive salary
If you have the opportunity to work as an expatriate for your company, then you’re likely to enjoy a very comfortable salary, as well as local accommodation.
If you’re going for both personal and professional experience, you may be able to find a better-paid position in the same country, but be sure to check the cost of living before diving headlong into your project. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of rent and accommodation, which in some countries are higher than in France.
Open up to new cultures
Expatriation means discovering a whole new culture!
Starting with the language, history, customs, food and mores of the chosen country. It’s an opportunity to open new eyes on the world, to apprehend situations differently. You’re likely to have new experiences that will open up new horizons and change your approach to certain situations.
People won’t necessarily think the way you do. Being open-minded will help you to better understand and adapt to this whole new culture.
Towards a better quality of life
If you feel that your life is moving at 100 km/hour, that you’re not enjoying anything, that you’re not fulfilled in your current life: individualism, lack of exchange and sharing: it’s all weighing on you. The hectic pace of big-city life no longer suits you. Perhaps you simply need to move to another region, but it may also be abroad that you find your happiness. Expatriation can give you a new taste for small pleasures. If you don’t want to idealize the country of your dreams, perhaps it’s a better fit for you.
A change of scenery and climate
Rediscover the pleasure of activities after your working day: surfing, sport, beach… Why not give yourself the opportunity of a year-round vacation lifestyle?
The living environment and the weather have a big influence on morale. Everyday problems will be erased more quickly if you have an idyllic life behind you: sun, nature. On the other hand, sometimes what we’ve idealized all our lives turns out not to be what we want. So consider your priorities carefully before choosing your destination. Expatriation is not a trivial decision taken overnight.
Open your mind to your children
We’re talking about enrichment for you, but if you have a family, it’s an opportunity for your children to benefit from this cultural mix, and to learn several languages. This experience in another country will give them an open-mindedness that will serve them for the rest of their lives.
Only the return to France can be difficult, being cut off from friends on the spot, even if today’s numerous instant messaging services enable you to keep in touch with the whole world.
Meet new people
Leaving means making new friends. It’s an opportunity to exchange, learn and be enriched by others. Whether it’s with locals or foreign expats, the more open and sociable you are, the more you’ll make new friends. Arriving in a new country will inevitably push you to be more open.
Conversely, you’ll also learn to go out on your own, as you’re bound to have evenings when you don’t know what to do. It’s another way of discovering places and meeting new people.
Shake up your routine
Even if everyone says they “run away from it”, a routine always sets in. It’s not necessarily negative, but it’s a comfort in which we indulge. So don’t wait too long to shake things up. Taking a step back from your life and stepping away from it to live a new experience will be all the more enriching for you.
All these factors are real reasons to move abroad, but the decision must be carefully considered. Expatriation also means taking risks, so it’s up to you to be well prepared. And don’t forget that for a successful expatriation, it’s essential to take out international health insurance.
