Expat Focus

Relocation concierge Ashley Sourci joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about moving to France — and tackling the country’s infamous bureaucracy. Originally from California, Ashley shares how she fell in love with French life, the challenges she faced setting up on her own, and why she now helps others navigate the endless paperwork and catch-22s of settling in. She explains what a relocation concierge does, the difference between standard relocation services and her high-touch “handholding” approach, and why even locals struggle with French administration. Ashley also breaks down typical costs, the realities of official translations, and how to avoid common pitfalls like stalled bank accounts and driver’s license delays. If you’re considering a move to France — or already drowning in French paperwork — this episode offers practical insights, real-life experiences, and advice to make your transition smoother. #ExpatLife #LivingInFrance #MoveToFrance #FrenchBureaucracy #FranceExpats #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:56 Ashley's Journey to France 04:40 Challenges of Relocating to France 07:24 Role of a Relocation Concierge 14:52 Pricing and Client Involvement 19:56 Documentation and Language Barriers 25:29 Finding the Right Relocation Service 27:48 Ashley's Personal Reflections and Contact Information 30:33 Final Thoughts 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/france/podcast/untangling-french-bureaucracy-how-a-relocation-concierge-can-help 📝 Show Notes Ashley’s Website – https://chezmoialsace.com 👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com  

American blogger Kirsten Raccuia returns to the Expat Focus Podcast to share her experiences with healthcare in Mexico. After relocating from Malaysia with her husband, Kirsten has navigated everything from pharmacy visits to surgery — and she opens up about the realities of medical care as a foreign resident. She explains why Mexico is a hub for medical tourism, how costs compare with the USA, and what expats should know about insurance and out-of-pocket expenses. Kirsten also highlights cultural differences in patient care, the role of word-of-mouth in finding trusted doctors, and the surprising accessibility of treatments. If you’re considering a move to Mexico — or curious about how healthcare abroad stacks up — this episode offers candid insights and practical advice. #ExpatLife #HealthcareMexico #LivingInMexico #MedicalTourism #MexicoExpats #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/mexico/podcast/why-expats-trust-mexico-for-affordable-modern-healthcare 📝 Show Notes Kirsten’s Blog – https://sandinmycurls.com 👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

Jordan Giberson joins the Expat Focus Podcast to share her journey from Austin, Texas to London, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From turning down a safe job offer at home to pursuing her dream of living in the UK, Jordan talks about navigating visas, surviving lockdown as a new arrival, and adapting to British culture. She opens up about the challenges of residency rules, what Americans should know about healthcare in the UK, and how her perspective has shifted after nearly six years abroad. Jordan also reflects on cultural quirks, why she feels more at home in London now, and what she loves most about her expat life. If you’re an American considering a move to the UK — or simply curious about life on the other side of the pond — this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. #ExpatLife #MovingToTheUK #AmericansAbroad #BritishCulture #UKVisas #HealthcareUK 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Jordan's Journey to the UK 03:38 Settling in During the Pandemic 07:16 Visa Challenges and Advice 14:28 Cultural Differences and Adaptation 20:15 Returning to Texas During COVID 21:31 Healthcare Differences: USA vs UK 24:33 Visa and Residency in the UK 28:44 Considering Other European Countries 31:36 Adapting to British Culture 36:24 Benefits of Living Abroad 38:14 Where to Find More Information 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/italy/podcast/living-in-london-how-one-american-made-it-work 📝 Show Notes Jordan’s Website - https://jordangiberson.com 👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

Barbara Boyle joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss her move from a high-flying advertising career in the US to a tranquil life in Monforte d’Alba, a small town in Italy’s Piedmont region. Barbara shares what it was like to renovate a 300-year-old stone barn with zero Italian, embrace the local slow food culture, and become part of a tight-knit rural community. She also opens up about her breast cancer diagnosis and why she returned to the US for treatment, and reflects on the joys and challenges of expat life. Her new memoir, 'Pinch Me: Waking Up in a 300-Year-Old Italian Farmhouse', captures the essence of her Italian adventure. If you’ve ever dreamed of moving to Italy, this one’s for you. 📘 Order Barbara’s memoir: https://www.barbaraboyleauthor.com/ 🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring expat stories 🌍 Explore more at https://www.expatfocus.com #ExpatLife #Italy #SlowLiving #PinchMe #FarmhouseRenovation #MovingToItaly 00:00 Introducing Barbara Boyle 00:51 Barbara's Writing Journey 03:26 Barbara's Advertising Career 06:25 Falling in Love with Montfort 09:06 The Slow Food Movement 11:39 Renovating the Barn 14:26 Challenges and Community Support 17:35 Learning Italian and Cultural Integration 20:56 Adjusting to a Slower Pace of Life 21:17 Nostalgia and Simplicity of Life in Silicon Valley 21:53 Adjusting to a Slower Pace in Italy 22:26 Balancing Busyness and Retirement 23:38 Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Journey 28:52 Comparing Healthcare Systems: Italy vs. USA  32:07 Building Community and Friendships in Italy 34:42 Joining Local Activities and Clubs 38:54 Advice for Aspiring Expats 40:41 The Perfect Italian Dish 41:36 Final Thoughts

Sigga Hansen joins the Expat Focus Podcast to share honest insights about learning Danish as an expat. As founder of Lingua Danica and one of Denmark's most experienced Danish teachers, she reveals why Danish is trickier than expected - and why it's essential for truly experiencing Danish life. Key Insights: Why Germans learn Danish faster than Swedes (surprising but true!) The pronunciation challenges that trip up most learners Why Copenhageners immediately switch to English The "hidden Denmark" you'll miss if you only speak English Real language learning strategies that work beyond apps Sigga brings unique perspective from teaching thousands of international students and living abroad herself. Whether you're moving to Denmark for work or love, this episode helps set realistic expectations while finding motivation to push through the challenging early stages. #LearnDanish #Denmark #ExpatLife #LanguageLearning #DanishLanguage #MovingToDenmark 00:00 Introduction 00:39 Meet Sigga Hansen: Danish Language Teacher 00:54 Sigga's Journey to Teaching Danish 02:40 Challenges and Rewards of Learning Danish 03:34 Typical Students and Their Motivations 04:18 The Role of English in Denmark 05:29 Language Similarities and Learning Advantages 07:04 High-Profile Danish Speakers 09:38 Danish Pronunciation and Patience 12:00 Teaching Danish: Joys and Methods 14:31 The Importance of Learning Danish in Denmark 17:18 Staying Motivated and Measuring Progress 18:26 Where to Find Sigga Hansen 18:59 Conclusion and Additional Resources Find Sigga Hansen on Instagram: @LinguaDanica More Denmark episodes: 🎧 Expat Careers In Denmark 🎧 How The Danish Healthcare System Works Subscribe for more expat insights! 📧 Newsletter: expatfocus.com/newsletter

Ever wondered what it's like to be pregnant in a foreign country? In this episode, Carlie chats with Sarah, an American living near Paris who recently welcomed her baby daughter Laura into the world. Sarah takes us through her entire French pregnancy journey - from those first nervous blood tests to her unexpected emergency C-section. She shares the real differences between French and American maternity care, including the shocking perks (priority cards that let you skip lines!), excellent healthcare coverage, and those amazing 16 weeks of paid maternity leave. You'll hear about the French approach to prenatal appointments, midwife care, and what really happens in French hospitals (spoiler: they actually encouraged her to eat a burger before delivery!). Whether you're planning a move abroad, expecting a baby, or just curious about healthcare differences around the world, Sarah's story offers both practical advice and emotional insights into one of life's biggest adventures... in a foreign language! #expatlife #moveabroad #france 00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback 00:20 Meet Sarah: An American in Paris 01:38 Sarah's Journey to France 04:06 Discovering Pregnancy in France 07:33 Navigating Prenatal Care 11:54 Childbirth Classes and Preparation 15:49 Hospital Choices and Birth Plans 18:57 Sarah's Birth Experience 29:04 Quick Birth Experience 30:59 Hospital Stay and Recovery 32:46 Newborn Care and Challenges 34:26 Support from Nursing Staff 38:04 Navigating French Healthcare 42:56 Unique Aspects of French Pregnancy 52:11 Maternity Leave and Benefits 54:26 Final Thoughts and Resources Sarah's blog - https://abuckeyeinparis.com Sarah's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/abuckeyeinparis

David Andrews, Director of Visa Visa Limited, returns to the Expat Focus Podcast to explain New Zealand's new approach to digital nomads. In this episode, we uncover the truth behind what's been called a "digital nomad visa" (but isn't actually a new visa at all!), exploring how visitors can now legally work remotely while enjoying everything New Zealand has to offer. David shares valuable insights about: How the visitor visa rules have changed to accommodate digital nomads Tax implications for remote workers from countries with tax treaties The current job market and in-demand skills in New Zealand Investment visa changes making NZ more attractive for high-net-worth individuals An increase in American professionals (especially doctors) looking to relocate Practical advice on qualification transfers and finding employment The best locations for digital nomads, from Auckland to Christchurch Internet connectivity solutions for remote workers Whether you're considering a short working holiday or testing the waters for a permanent move, this episode provides essential information for anyone interested in experiencing life in New Zealand while maintaining their remote career. #expatlife #digitalnomad #newzealand #moveabroad 00:00 Introduction and Exciting News for Digital Nomads 01:17 Understanding New Zealand's Digital Nomad Visa 01:59 Visa Conditions and Practical Implications 03:57 Extended Stays and Tax Implications 11:18 Job Market and Employment Opportunities 12:42 Investment and Residency Options 19:09 Practical Tips for Digital Nomads in New Zealand 23:03 Conclusion and Contact Information

Devra Jacobs joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss how to achieve a "happy move" when relocating. Drawing from her experience of 29 moves, including living abroad in Korea, Devra shares practical tips on making the moving process as stress-free as possible. She discusses the importance of pre-move preparation, including what to keep and what to leave behind, how to pack efficiently, and how to handle pets and children during transitions. As the co-author of "A Happy Move," Devra provides insights on working with professional movers vs. DIY moves, the best times to relocate, and crucial post-move considerations that people often overlook. She shares valuable lessons learned from her extensive moving experience, including how to avoid common pitfalls like moving during peak seasons or holidays, and practical advice on documenting your belongings for insurance purposes. Whether you're moving across the country or internationally, this episode offers essential guidance on making your next move a successful one. Learn more about Devra's book at ahappymove.com. #ExpatLife #MovingAbroad #Relocation #ExpatTips #MovingTips #ExpatPodcast #InternationalMove 00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback Request 00:35 Guest Introduction: Devra Jacobs 01:26 Devra's Moving Experiences 03:14 Achieving a Happy Move 05:35 Practical Moving Tips 10:36 Packing and Professional Movers 19:57 Managing Pets and Kids During a Move 25:01 Timing Your Move 31:35 Post-Move Considerations 34:41 Conclusion and Contact Information

Nathalie Goldstein, CEO of MyExpatTaxes, joins the Expat Focus Podcast for an essential conversation about U.S. tax obligations for Americans living abroad. As an expat herself living in Austria for the past decade, Nathalie shares her personal journey and explains why she created a platform specifically designed to help U.S. citizens navigate their complex tax filing requirements from overseas. From understanding basic obligations and deadlines to avoiding double taxation, dealing with FATCA and FBAR requirements, and managing digital nomad tax implications, this episode breaks down everything you need to know about U.S. expat taxes. Nathalie offers valuable insights on choosing the right tax filing platform, explains common pitfalls to avoid, and shares tips for making the process as stress-free as possible. Whether you're a long-term expat or planning to move abroad, this conversation will help you understand and manage your U.S. tax obligations with confidence. #expats #expatlife #expatliving #livingabroad #movingabroad 00:00 Introduction and Call for Feedback 00:23 Understanding U.S. Tax Obligations for Expats 00:45 Meet Natalie Goldstein from MyExpatTaxes 01:36 Natalie's Journey from California to Austria 04:45 Filing U.S. Taxes as an Expat 08:03 Avoiding Double Taxation 13:44 Tax Filing Tips and Deadlines 17:39 Choosing the Right Tax Filing Platform 19:02 Challenges of Filing Taxes as an Expat 19:38 The Birth of MyExpatTaxes 19:55 Tailored Tax Solutions for Expats 20:41 Complex Tax Situations and Solutions 22:59 Digital Nomads and Tax Benefits 26:27 Understanding FATCA and FBAR 34:13 Penalties and Compliance 36:24 How to Get Help with Your Expat Taxes 37:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Life coach Bianca Tate joins the Expat Focus Podcast to share insights on how clarity, confidence, and courage are crucial for a successful move abroad. Bianca, with her extensive personal and professional experience as an expat in multiple countries, delves into common challenges like cultural shocks, the importance of community, and the steps to prepare emotionally and practically for an international move. She also provides practical advice for mid-career professionals considering relocation and emphasizes the value of having a clear purpose and holistic plan. #expats #expatlife #expatliving #livingabroad #movingabroad 00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback Request 00:24 Meet Bianca Tate: Life Coach and Expat 01:07 Bianca's International Journey 01:56 Overcoming Culture Shock in Germany 05:26 The Role of a Life Coach in Moving Abroad 11:42 Choosing the Right Country for Your Move 17:14 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Moving Abroad 25:44 Building a Community in a New Country 34:37 Final Advice for Aspiring Expats 36:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

Attorney Mena Maimone joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about the various pathways for moving to the United States in 2025. She explains common visas, such as the E2 investor visa, EB2 National Interest Waiver, and EB3 employment-based visa, detailing the requirements and processes for each. Mena shares her personal motivation for moving to the U.S., the key motivators for immigrants today, and the challenges applicants might face. The conversation also explores the potential impact of the upcoming presidential administration on immigration policies and provides insights on how to successfully navigate the U.S. visa application process. The episode concludes with practical advice for prospective applicants, including the importance of disclosing all information and the benefits of hiring a knowledgeable attorney. 00:00 Introducing Mena Maimone 00:27 Motivations for Moving to the USA 02:00 Common Pathways to Move to America 04:01 Investor Visa Details 05:27 Employment-Based Visas 07:12 Challenges in the Visa Application Process 08:03 Legal Support and Fees 16:26 Future of US Immigration Policies 19:50 Conclusion and Contact Information

Moving has been a top priority for some Americans since the US presidential election, leading to a surge in inquiries to immigration consultants, Canada Abroad. Deanne Acres joins the Expat Focus Podcast to explain exactly what US citizens need to know if they're set on relocating to Canada. For a free immigration assessment, visit: https://canadaabroad.com/assessment/ For job outlooks in Canada, visit: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/trend-analysis/search-job-outlooks 00:00 Why Americans Choose Canada 01:57 Immigration Requirements and Processes 04:46 Work and Study Permits 12:25 Retirement and Investment Options 21:37 Cost of Living and Cultural Considerations 22:45 Path to Citizenship 23:22 Getting Started with Your Move 25:00 Closing Thoughts 

Jake Barber, Founder and Advisor at SJB Global, is back in this episode to talk through the recent UK Budget announcements, and what they mean for UK expats. You can stay up to date with expert analysis like this by signing up to our monthly newsletter - just head to expatfocus.com/newsletter. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:32 Overview of UK Budget Changes 01:16 Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax 04:02 Stamp Duty and Inheritance Tax 07:40 Impact on Pensions and QROPS 12:06 Non-Domicile Rules and Tax Planning 16:06 Economic Climate and Growth Projections 18:34 Global Comparisons and Investment Strategies 21:54 Popular Expat Destinations 25:34 Final Thoughts and Advice 35:28 Conclusion and Contact Information 

Is Panama a tax haven for expat property investors? What sort of rental return should I expect? Can I list on Airbnb there, and do I need to worry about hurricanes? On the show to answer these questions and more, is Melissa Darnay, the CEO of Choose Panama. Originally from California, Melissa spent 15 years in Texas before tragedy struck, and she went on to start a whole new life in Central America. We dive into how Melissa became a real estate and rental agency entrepreneur, what makes Panama appealing for investment today, some location hidden gems, and if you’re looking to buy property in Panama, how to make sure you don’t fall for any scams. 00:00 Guest Introduction: Melissa Darnay 01:10 Melissa's Journey to Panama 05:30 Why Panama? 08:09 Real Estate in Panama 14:43 Panama's Tax System 19:47 Popular Locations for Expats 23:44 Weather and Natural Disasters 33:51 Investment Tips and Red Flags 38:04 Conclusion and Contact Information

Did you know, the USA is probably the most lucrative market for work as a travel nurse? And that while you can take travel nursing abroad, the role doesn’t actually exist in all countries? Kylee Nelson is a nurse who is encouraging others in her profession to take a break from the bedside to help prevent burnout, and get out and see the world. Kylee’s worked as a travel nurse for seven years, including in Saudi Arabia and all over the USA. Nothing is off limits with Kylee in this episode - we talk money - how much you can earn as a travel nurse versus being on staff, how to work with recruiters, or not, how you’ll be welcomed by colleagues when you start your latest assignment, or not, and what countries you should look at if you are interested in travel nursing abroad.

Ruairi Spillane joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss what it takes to immigrate to Canada in 2024. Ruairi moved there from Ireland back in 2008, initially working in finance. He was motivated to start his own business in Canada after seeing so many expat friends struggle to navigate the system, and get access to the essential information they needed to be able to settle and thrive in the country. Ruari launched the website moving2canada.com, and in the years since, he has collected a swag of titles, including being named Best Immigrant Entrepreneur. Listen to find out what makes Canada attractive to foreigners right now, some current job opportunities, the typical visa application timeline, and some hurdles you can expect to face along the way.

Have you ever visited a city or a country and just known deep down that it's where you were meant to be? This is what Steph Zakas experienced on her first visit from the USA to Iceland, and it's the reason why she's living in the country today. Steph Zakas is a true slashie - she’s a coach, advisor, consultant, and photographer. In this chat, you’ll find out how she made Iceland her home, what it’s like to live in a country of such extreme contrasts (so much darkness in winter and a sun that never sets in the summer), and how Steph thinks that contributes to such a creative society. You’ll also learn that if you do come to Iceland, you shouldn’t treat the place like Disneyland.

So, you’ve fallen in love with the beautiful country of New Zealand. How can you go about moving there to live and work? What sectors are especially interested in employing foreigners, and what’s the visa application process like? David Andrews joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk through your various visa options, application requirements and the costs involved. David’s the founder and director of Visa Visa Immigration Services and Hire Minds Recruitment. He’s also an expat in New Zealand himself, so he knows exactly what it’s like to pack up your life and move to a new country.

We’re all about providing practical tips and advice on this show, and in this episode I’m joined by Jake Barber, Founder and Advisor at SJB Global, who is going to talk through transfer options for expats with UK defined contribution pensions. Jake is based in Spain, and he’s worked with British expats - in fact anyone with a work history in the UK - for a decade. We’ll dive into how Brexit affected pensions, your options for transferring a UK defined contribution pension so you can access it abroad, and specific rules and transfer fees that you should be aware of. Now for the usual caveat - Jake is providing only general information in this episode. If you want advice more specific to your situation, you should get in touch with him, or another professional advisor.

Today’s guest, Jess Drucker, has made a career out of helping LGBTQ+ people and their families move abroad. In fact, she’s created the world’s first and only, global relocation resource for this expat community, called Rainbow Relocation. Jess is a seasoned expat herself, and we chat about some of the additional practical elements that come into play when you’re queer and moving to a new country. From choosing places that are safe, where marriage and children will be legally recognized, where you’ll be able to thrive in your career, and find your community.