Living Abroad: A Realistic Guide to Thriving as an Immigrant

Living abroad isn’t for everyone—and that’s okay. It’s not tourism; it’s a conscious choice to relocate to a new and, for many, foreign land and language to seek out a new sense of self, balance, opportunity, or peace. Thriving abroad requires thoughtful planning, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace the challenges of immersing yourself in a new culture. Here’s what it truly takes to make the leap and thrive.

Studies show that approximately 50% of Americans and Canadians who relocate abroad return home within the first five years. However, those who invest time in thorough planning, as outlined here, significantly increase their chances of a successful long-term transition.

But first, let’s clarify something: we’re calling this guide a resource for immigrants, not “expats.” The term “expat” often carries a colonial connotation of dominance or entitlement, implying a temporary and superior position in the host country. Choosing to use “immigrant” acknowledges the shared human experience of relocating, regardless of where someone is from, and fosters a mindset of mutual respect and integration.

1. Cultural Integration

• Understanding the Culture: Dive into the country’s history, traditions, and societal norms. Learn how locals perceive time, relationships, and etiquette.
• Building Relationships: Engage authentically with locals. Attend community events, cultural festivals, and social gatherings.
• Language Immersion: Go beyond language basics. Learn idioms, slang, and conversational nuances to connect deeply.
• Adapting vs. Assimilating: Strive to integrate while respecting boundaries and avoiding imposing your beliefs. For instance, in Costa Rica, understanding the concept of “pura vida”—a phrase that embodies the country’s relaxed and positive attitude—can be key to building relationships.

2. Legal Residency Requirements

• Types of Visas: Research work visas, investor visas, family reunification, or retirement residency options. Costa Rica’s investor visa, for example, is popular among retirees who meet the $150,000 investment threshold by purchasing property or vehicles.
• Documentation: Keep essential documents like proof of income, health insurance, and police clearances up to date.
• Permanent Residency or Citizenship: Explore pathways for long-term residency, including language tests or civic integration requirements.
• Work Authorization: Understand if your visa allows you to legally work. Research the process for work permits—some may require sponsorship or specific qualifications.
• Part-Time or Seasonal Residency: If you plan to live abroad part-time, research visa requirements for extended stays or seasonal residency permits. Some countries offer specific options for “snowbirds” or part-time residents.

3. Financial Preparedness

• Cost of Living: Evaluate housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation costs. For example, Costa Rica’s higher cost of living compared to neighboring countries is offset by factors like safety, healthcare quality, and longevity.
• Currency Exchange Rates: Continually monitor exchange rates to gauge how fluctuations might affect your ability to live comfortably.
• Taxation: Understand local and global tax obligations. U.S. citizens, for example, still need to file taxes while abroad.
• Emergency Fund: Maintain a financial cushion for unexpected events like medical emergencies or relocation costs.
• Seasonal Living Costs: If your move is part-time, consider the costs of maintaining two households. Will you rent out your home abroad when you’re not there? Will you need a property manager or caretaker?

4. Healthcare Access

• System Research: Determine if healthcare is public, private, or mixed. Learn how to access doctors, specialists, and pharmacies. Costa Rica offers an excellent public healthcare system (Caja), which many immigrants supplement with private insurance for faster access.
• Health Insurance: Many countries require proof of insurance for residency applications. Research whether private or public insurance best suits your needs.
• Quality of Care: Compare the local healthcare standards with what you are accustomed to, ensuring access to necessary specialists or treatments.

5. Housing

• Neighborhood Research: Choose an area that aligns with your lifestyle—urban, suburban, or rural. In Costa Rica, living in the Central Valley offers a mix of city conveniences and cooler climates, while beach towns like Tamarindo attract those seeking a laid-back lifestyle.
• Renting vs. Buying: Renting first is often the best way to understand an area before committing to a purchase.
• Utilities and Services: Familiarize yourself with local standards for electricity, water, internet, and waste management.
• Seasonal Considerations: If you’re living abroad part-time, think about whether to rent out your property on platforms like Airbnb while you’re away. Do you need a caretaker to maintain the property? Will someone oversee it during storms or other natural events?

6. Community and Support

• Building Networks: Seek out local groups, classes, or meetups that align with your interests.
• Support Systems: Build relationships with both locals and other immigrants who share your experience. In Costa Rica, organizations like InterNations or local Facebook groups can be invaluable for networking.
• Volunteering: Give back to the community to foster a deeper sense of belonging.
• Maintaining Ties Back Home: If you’re splitting your time, consider whether you need someone to support your life back home—managing mail, maintaining your property, or handling other responsibilities.

7. Language Proficiency

• Classes and Tutors: Enroll in language courses or hire a tutor for personalized learning.
• Daily Practice: Practice speaking daily, even if it feels uncomfortable. Use apps or label household items to build vocabulary.
• Social Learning: Join conversation exchanges or social groups for informal practice. In Costa Rica, learning Spanish will greatly enhance your ability to navigate bureaucracy and connect with locals.

8. Employment or Business Opportunities

• Job Market: Research in-demand skills and industries. Verify whether your qualifications will need validation (e.g., degrees or certifications).
• Legal Work Authorization: Check if your visa permits employment. Some visas prohibit work entirely, while others require sponsorship or specific permits.
• Starting a Business: Investigate local regulations and market needs. Costa Rica, for example, encourages entrepreneurs with its stable economy and investor visa programs.
• Remote Work: Consider maintaining your current job remotely if permitted by local visa regulations and your employer.

9. Cultural Sensitivity

• Humility: Recognize yourself as a guest and approach differences with curiosity, not judgment.
• Avoiding Stereotypes: Avoid making assumptions about locals or perpetuating stereotypes.
• Giving Back: Support the local economy and participate in initiatives that positively impact the community.

10. Long-Term Goals

• Vision and Intent: Define your objectives for living abroad and reflect on what you hope to achieve.
• Adjusting Expectations: Prepare for ups and downs, and accept that your vision may evolve over time.
• Sustainability: Decide whether this is a permanent relocation or a temporary chapter. If it’s a seasonal move, clarify how this aligns with your overall goals and plan accordingly.

11. Finding the Right School for Your Children

And finally, if you’re considering relocating with school-aged children, their education will play a decisive role in your decision-making process on where to live, how to plan, and if Costa Rica is a good option for you. Ensuring a smooth transition for your child requires thoughtful planning and research to find the right learning environment. Here’s what to consider:

• Understanding Your Child’s Needs: Reflect on what type of learning environment works best for your child. Do they thrive in smaller class sizes, hands-on learning, or a more traditional academic structure? This is a key factor in narrowing down your options.
• Researching Alternatives: Investigate all available school options, such as public, private, and international schools, and understand their entrance requirements. For example, some international schools might require language proficiency tests or interviews.
• School Logistics: Familiarize yourself with the academic calendar, grading systems, and how grades and credits transfer if your child plans to attend higher education abroad or back home. Pay close attention to communication methods between the school and parents, as this can vary significantly.
• Interviews and Visits: Connect with schools for virtual or on-site interviews to assess the environment, facilities, and teaching approach. Speaking directly with administrators and teachers can provide clarity and insight into the school’s culture.
• Budgeting for Education: Consider both tuition and additional fees, such as transportation, uniforms, extracurricular activities, and materials. Be sure to account for these costs in your overall relocation budget.