Who are they?

There’s no typical profile when it comes to an expat-preneur — diversity is the name of the game. But rather than taking the traditional route of corporate-relocation, or expanding existing businesses, these expat-preneurs are moving for a higher quality of life and to be close to new partners, and then spotting new market opportunities.

• 47%: male                                                  53%: female
• 38%: single                                                62%: in relationship
• 42: average weekly working hours
• 41: average age

Where they’re making it big

Successful expat-preneurs know there’s more to a destination than the financial opportunities — quality of life, ease of settling and cost all factor highly.

Top 10 countries:

1.       Ecuador

Expats love the quality of life, cost of living and abundance of leisure activities available.

Top expat industries by employment:

- Education, research, and translation 26%
- Service industry and tourism 17%

2.       Mexico

Ranks highly for its ease of welcoming expats into the local culture and low cost of living.

Top expat industries by employment:

- Education, research, and translation 17%
- Business services and consultants 13%

3.       Malta

Job satisfaction, career prospects and a good work-life balance all make Malta an attractive prospect.

Top expat industries by employment:

- IT and gaming 22%
- Service industry and tourism 13%

4.       Singapore

5.       Luxembourg

6.       New Zealand

7.       Thailand

8.       Panama

9.       Canada

10.   Australia

Why they’re taking the risk

A 2014 study found that:

• 13% of expats moved because…

- Found own job abroad
- Relocated by employer

Risky business
Some expat-preneurs simply want to move abroad and take risks not available at home.

• 10%...

- Wanted to live in partner’s home country / moved for loved one

A life changer
Whether they’re pursuing a relationship or leaving one, it’s often about seeking new horizons.

• 9%...

- Moved for better quality of life
- Looking for an adventure / personal challenge
- Moved for partner’s job or education

Adventure
Adventure is a strong factor at the core of the expat-preneurs rise; looking for something new and exciting to make their own.

How they’re making it happen

Successful expat-preneurs are taking a calculated risk; they leave nothing to chance and use all of the tools at their disposal.

• The ease of tech
  Improved communication and ease of working on the go have benefited those looking to set up abroad.
• An outsider’s perspective
  Coming from outside the local business culture, expat-preneurs are able to critically assess market needs and new opportunities.
• Combining knowledge
  The combination of an outsider’s viewpoint and insider knowledge is crucial in becoming a long-term success.
• Unseen potential
  By bridging the divide, expat-preneurs are able to see and take advantage of untapped potential where opportunities are strongest.

While fruitful endeavors drive many expat-preneurs aboard, an increasing number of moves stem from a lifestyle choice — making the best of both worlds.

If you’re looking for a land of opportunity, there’s never been a better time to make the leap.