Who are they?
There’s no typical profile when it comes to an expat-preneur — diversity is the name of the game. But rather than taking the traditional route of corporate-relocation, or expanding existing businesses, these expat-preneurs are moving for a higher quality of life and to be close to new partners, and then spotting new market opportunities.
- 47%: male 53%: female
- 38%: single 62%: in relationship
- 42: average weekly working hours
- 41: average age
Age groups
|
%
|
<25
|
6
|
26-30
|
18
|
31-35
|
18
|
36-40
|
14
|
41-50
|
22
|
>51
|
22
|
Planned length of stay (years)
|
%
|
<1
|
5
|
1-3
|
19
|
3-5
|
14
|
>5
|
16
|
Possibly forever
|
25
|
Undecided
|
21
|
Where they’re making it big
Successful expat-preneurs know there’s more to a destination than the financial opportunities — quality of life, ease of settling and cost all factor highly.
Top 10 countries:
1. Ecuador
Expats love the quality of life, cost of living and abundance of leisure activities available.
Top expat industries by employment:
- Education, research, and translation 26%
- Service industry and tourism 17%
2. Mexico
Ranks highly for its ease of welcoming expats into the local culture and low cost of living.
Top expat industries by employment:
- Education, research, and translation 17%
- Business services and consultants 13%
3. Malta
Job satisfaction, career prospects and a good work-life balance all make Malta an attractive prospect.
Top expat industries by employment:
- IT and gaming 22%
- Service industry and tourism 13%
4. Singapore
5. Luxembourg
6. New Zealand
7. Thailand
8. Panama
9. Canada
10. Australia
Why they’re taking the risk
A 2014 study found that:
- 13% of expats moved because…
- Found own job abroad
- Relocated by employer
Risky business
Some expat-preneurs simply want to move abroad and take risks not available at home.
- Wanted to live in partner’s home country / moved for loved one
A life changer
Whether they’re pursuing a relationship or leaving one, it’s often about seeking new horizons.
- Moved for better quality of life
- Looking for an adventure / personal challenge
- Moved for partner’s job or education
Adventure
Adventure is a strong factor at the core of the expat-preneurs rise; looking for something new and exciting to make their own.
How they’re making it happen
Successful expat-preneurs are taking a calculated risk; they leave nothing to chance and use all of the tools at their disposal.
- The ease of tech
Improved communication and ease of working on the go have benefited those looking to set up abroad.
- An outsider’s perspective
Coming from outside the local business culture, expat-preneurs are able to critically assess market needs and new opportunities.
- Combining knowledge
The combination of an outsider’s viewpoint and insider knowledge is crucial in becoming a long-term success.
- Unseen potential
By bridging the divide, expat-preneurs are able to see and take advantage of untapped potential where opportunities are strongest.
While fruitful endeavors drive many expat-preneurs aboard, an increasing number of moves stem from a lifestyle choice — making the best of both worlds.
If you’re looking for a land of opportunity, there’s never been a better time to make the leap.