While the pandemic has put the brakes on expat assignments for many companies, the slowdown is seen as temporary. The need for international assignments is still there. And for those expats who are already working abroad, there is a high level of confidence that expat life will return to normal.
Demand for expats on the rise
While the pandemic brought almost all business travel to a standstill, research by AXA Global Healthcare found that HR decision makers are still predicting an increase in all types of future international assignments. This is encouraging news for those who believe that the pandemic has killed their chance of an expat experience.
Boss up and change your life.
— Lizzo
Professionals confident about expat life abroad
Even in light of travel restrictions and other hurdles brought on by the pandemic, expats are confident that they will be able to continue their way of life. In fact, Aetna International’s latest survey, states that 75% of expats are “very or fairly confident” to continue living the expat way of life. The study goes on to state that in comparison to life at home, expats are feeling happier, safer and welcomed in their host countries. The survey also reveals that expats are experiencing improvements in their health and well-being, including eating healthier, drinking less alcohol and exercising more.
As someone living outside their home country, I can say that I agree with the findings from the Aetna survey. And while it was challenging at the beginning of the pandemic, with a high level of uncertainty around the economy and job security, I feel confident that the global markets and the local Italian economy are turning the corner on the pandemic.
What you need to know about working abroad
Expected changes in expat assignments
While all types of expat assignments are increasing, shorter-term contracts are particularly on the rise. With the changing landscape brought on by the pandemic, virtual assignments are also gaining ground as HR and mobility experts assess how to incorporate online experiences with the overall expat package. In fact, virtual assignments could be a good first step to introduce potential candidates to multicultural work environments.
Employee experience, especially among Millennials, is still front and center when it comes to recruitment. Look for expat and rotational experiences to get their share of the spotlight when it comes to communicating employee benefits.
Lastly, the pandemic has generated new complexities especially in the area of healthcare, which has never been more important than now.
The impact of COVID-19 on overseas assignments
COVID-19 documentation and travel restrictions
One of the more complicated aspects of your expat assignment, might be just getting there. With the evolution of COVID-19 and the introduction of COVID-19 variants, many countries have restricted or altogether banned U.S. travelers.
Across the globe there is a mixed stance on the pandemic outlook for Americans.
- Africa and Middle East: TripSavvy has country-by-country information in Travel to Africa and the Middle East.
- Asia: Condé Nast Traveler provides A Country-by-Country Guide to Asia’s Travel Restrictions.
- Central and South America: TripSavvy offers information for Travel to Central and South America.
- Europe: Forbes Travel To These European Countries Just Got Harder For Americans provides a breakdown on the limitations across the old continent.
- North America: TripSavvy has country-by-country information for Travel to North America.
One thing holds true across all destinations, you should check the U.S. Embassy, Consulate or Diplomatic Mission of where you intend to travel to learn the latest requirements or restrictions. You’ll also want to check the health department or ministry for the countries you are visiting.
Healthcare a deal breaker for international assignments
If healthcare isn’t a deal breaker when planning for your expat assignment then it should be. Don’t just check the box. Make sure you and your family are covered. Next, find out what you need to do to activate your health coverage. You don’t want to be figuring things out in the middle of a global pandemic. Don’t let documentation or bureaucracy stand in the way of receiving healthcare services.
I remember when I wanted to schedule my first medical visit. It took months. I had to find a medico di base, general practitioner, and figure out how the system worked. I should have done that as soon as I arrived.
The weight of the pandemic on your mental well-being
There is no question that the pandemic took its toll on people of all ages. Nearly 50% of U.S. adults suffered symptoms of anxiety and depression. Just imagine what it was like for expats who had the added stress of being in a foreign country, far from family and friends. When discussing your healthcare package, be sure that you are covered both physically and mentally.
Changes in expat spending
The pandemic has influenced how we spend our money. Spend has shifted to consumer electronics to support working from home, food takeaway due to restaurant closures and subscriptions to streaming or premium television for more free time spent indoors. This holds true for expat life as well. Regardless of where you are, working from home has most likely increased your electricity bill. If you are going abroad, you will want to be ready for a hybrid workplace which includes time in the office and remote working.
It’s more than just the money, lifestyle matters
While salary is important and one of the main drivers for professionals who go abroad, lifestyle matters too. The pandemic reinforced the importance of feeling safe and happy in our surroundings. Many expats are eager to return to “normal” due to the benefit of a better and healthier lifestyle expat life delivers.
If you want insight on quality of expat life, check out InterNations’ Expat Insider survey. The survey covers a number of areas including best places to work to cost of living. While I don’t agree with all the findings for Italy, the survey offers a wealth of information for those considering going overseas.
I’m sure everyone of us remembers where we were prior to lockdown. For me, my husband had shattered his right forearm and had just come home from the hospital when we went into complete lockdown. And while staying all day and all night at home was difficult at times, if the pandemic taught us anything, it was to respect those around us and to remind us that life is short and should be enjoyed. Sometimes it feels like the pandemic will never end. However, we need to appreciate what we have, even if it is not the same as pre-pandemic times. Live life as best you can. Lastly, if expat life is something you desire then don’t give up on it.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels
