expat network
Schengen visa

When And How Do I Apply For A Schengen Visa?

Non-EU citizens who have not been granted residence in an EU country, who are planning to enter the EU (and other member countries) for a short visit will need a Schengen Visa. What are the options available and how do you apply? A Schengen visa allows you to enter any of...

mortgages for over 60s

How Do Different Countries Treat Mortgages For Over 60s?

With the current economic turmoil due to both Brexit and Covid-19, many UK mortgage brokers have continued to be accused of being ‘ageist’.  Mortgages for Over 60s can be difficult to obtain.   This is because many are lowering their maximum age limits on traditional mortgage lending for an older borrower from 80/85 to an...

flying while pregnant

6 Tips To Stay Safe When Flying While Pregnant

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic and its impact on different parts of the world continue to flood our news and social media. You’re probably wondering how COVID-19 could affect your loved ones, especially if you have a young baby or are currently pregnant. On top of that, if you have travel plans coming up, you...

Expat City Ranking

Spain Dominates Expat City Ranking

The Expat City Ranking 2020 Top 10 is dominated by Spanish destinations with Valencia top, Alicante runner-up and Malaga and Madrid also in the top ten.  With Lisbon coming in third in the ranking the Iberian Peninsula shows its clear attractions. All five cities see some of their best results in...

mental health

Impact Of Taking On An International Assignment On Mental Health

A major new piece of research* by AXA Global Healthcare has shed light on the impact that working on an international business assignment has upon mental health. Of the 500 international workers who were surveyed in seven different countries, just one-in-ten (10%) said that working abroad has had a negative impact on their mental health....

how to stop worrying

How To Stop Worrying And Feel Better As An Expat

Are you worried? Are you feeling lonely? Do you work elsewhere and already miss your loved ones? You are not alone. People worry all the time; it is only human to worry. However, if not regulated, mild worrying can easily transition to chronic worrying and eventually cause panic disorder, anxiety, and depression, especially if you...

Digital Nomad

Life As A Digital Nomad – A Personal Perspective

Becoming a digital nomad is an increasingly popular option and the pandemic has made many people digital nomads as they work from home even if they are unfamiliar with the term.  Here I share my experience of moving to Spain to take advantage of my ability to live as a digital nomad. Written by Nigel...

screen time

3 In 4 Agree Restricting Screen Time At Work Would Benefit Their Wellbeing

With more employees currently working from home due to the Covid-19 pandemic, workers are now more reliant on technology than ever before according to a recent report. The report explores how the use of technology was impacting employee well-being before the pandemic began and reveals how we can make adjustments to our relationship with digital...

visa options

Visa Options For Non-EU Citizens To Live, Work Or Retire In Spain

Visa options: non-EU citizens, which from 2021 includes British citizens, must have an appropriate visa if they are to live in Spain.  Professional advice is advisable to ensure you obtain the visa that best meets your circumstances and gives you the best benefits.  Here we set out a summary of the main visa options. There...

fit and healthy

How Expats Can Stay Fit And Healthy At Home

As expats across the globe continue to be isolated in their homes, keeping up with physical fitness is quickly becoming an overwhelming concern, especially for those who are used to regularly visiting the gym and enjoy staying active. Exercise is not only important for physical fitness, however. Getting your heart pumping is also extremely beneficial...

Spanish Mortgages

Spanish Mortgages And Covid-19 Update

Covid-19 is having an impact around the world, but as we sit in lockdown many consider their plans for the future.  With the agreement of Mortgage Direct we are publishing an article by Simon Staples which provides a surprising insight into the Spanish mortgage market during these difficult times where it is possible to move...

tax implications

Tax Implications Expats With Property In Spain Should Consider In A Post-Brexit World

The UK’s exit from the European Union has prompted expats to review the way in which they manage their estates and hand down their property abroad. While the issue is shrouded with misconceptions, people are more alive now than ever to their options for succession planning. But it doesn’t stop there. Richard Bate, Partner at...