Expats and digital nomads are closely related. Both groups of people have chosen to live outside their home country for a period of time, usually for work purposes. They’re also both in the same industry as remote workers. But, there are some subtle differences between the two terms that set them apart from one another. However, while many think they’re interchangeable and can be used interchangeably, this isn’t actually the case. There are some key differences between being an expat or a digital nomad that will impact on your life.
If you’re thinking about becoming either an expat or a digital nomad, we have detailed information on digital nomads vs expats below.
Digital Nomad Vs Expat?
What is an Expat?
An expat is a person who lives in a foreign country. They are usually there for a specific amount of time, for example, a year or so, for work purposes. Expats tend to work for a company back home and live abroad for a certain amount of time. A lot of people change their location for a few years to get a different kind of experience and explore different cultures. It can also be used to learn more about a foreign language and culture.
Being an expat definitely has its advantages and disadvantages that you have to take into consideration. Being an expat can come with a lot of benefits, including being able to travel more and gaining an opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture. You will also likely be paid more than if you were living in your home country. On top of all this, you will also be able to learn a new language.
What is a Digital Nomad?
A digital nomad is a person who works remotely for a company or themselves. They usually travel around and live in different countries, often Asia, and use the internet to do their job. Being a digital nomad usually means that you are working remotely for a certain amount of time.
Usually, you will see yourself as a remote worker or freelancer. There are many people who like to travel and work remotely at the same time. As this industry grows, you can find many resources, forums, and communities to help you get started.
Digital nomads typically work remotely and are often self-employed. Some people choose this lifestyle so they can travel more, while others do it because they want to get out of the 9-5 grind. Being a digital nomad allows you to work from wherever you want, so you can travel and experience other cultures, while still earning a living and putting food on the table. This means you can live anywhere and travel as often as you like.
Similarities
Both expats and digital nomads are in the same industry. They are workers who choose to live in a country different from the one they were born in. This is usually due to work related reasons, but some people may just choose to do it for the experience and adventure. Digital nomads and expats are both remote workers who are usually self-employed. They work for themselves but also for clients. Both groups also use the internet as one of the main ways to work.
Differences
The main difference between being an expat and a digital nomad is where you live. Expats live in a foreign country, usually for a certain amount of time. Digital nomads, on the other hand, live in different countries while they travel the world.
Another difference is that expats are usually employed by an employer back home, while digital nomads work remotely for themselves or clients. Expats will likely be paid more because they are in-demand workers who need to be hired by an employer and be paid well. Digital nomads, however, can set their own rates and are self-employed, which means you can earn as much or as little as you want.
Working abroad as an expat is often better for your career, while working as a digital nomad can be more beneficial for your bank account. An expat will be able to boost their resume and network, while a digital nomad can make a consistent amount of money from their work.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Being a Digital Nomad/Expat
Benefits
Being a digital nomad and/or an expat has many benefits. You may have the opportunity to travel to new places, meet new people, and experience new cultures. You may also have the chance to make more money than you typically would at home. An increasing number of companies are hiring digital nomads and expats. Some companies are hiring digital nomads to work remotely because they want to save on office space, while others want to hire expats to bring in new perspectives and ideas. Being a digital nomad and/or an expat may help you earn more money. But that is only if you have a skill set that can be used remotely.
Drawbacks
While there are many benefits to being a digital nomad and/or expat, there are also drawbacks to consider. These include the fact that you’ll need to be more responsible for your healthcare, finances, and safety. You may also be limited on how much time you can spend in each country.
Most countries have strict rules about how long a person can stay without a visa. You may also be limited in how long you can stay in one place before you’re considered an expat. While some countries have no restrictions, others require expats to leave the country after a certain period of time.
Final Words on Digital Nomad Vs Expat
Being a digital nomad or an expat can be very beneficial.There many opportunities to travel to new places while you work remotely. You will also have the chance to make more money than you typically would at home. An increasing number of companies are hiring digital nomads and expats. Some companies are hiring digital nomads to work remotely because they want to save on office space, while others want to hire expats to bring in new perspectives and ideas.
Want to know how to build your digital nomad community? Check out our previous blog!
