What is an expat?
In an increasingly globalized world, it’s common for many people to choose to live and work for a period of time outside their country of origin. In this context, the term expat or expatriate appears—a word widely used in professional, international, and global mobility communities.
But what exactly does it mean to be an expat? How is it different from an immigrant or a digital nomad? And why do people in this profile often look for temporary rentals or coliving when they arrive in a new city?
In this article, we explain what an expat is, their main characteristics, and the types of accommodation they usually choose when moving to another country.
What does expat or expatriate mean?
An expat (short for expatriate) is a person who temporarily lives in a country different from their country of origin, usually for professional reasons.
In most cases, expats relocate because:
- A company sends them to work in an international office
- They have accepted a professional project in another country
- They have chosen to develop their career in an international environment
Unlike permanent migration, expats generally do not intend to settle indefinitely. Instead, they live in another country for a limited period.
For this reason, expats often look for flexible housing solutions, such as temporary rentals or coliving spaces, which allow them to quickly adapt to a new city.
What is the origin of the term expat?
The term expatriate comes from Latin:
- ex (out of)
- patria (homeland)
It literally means “a person who lives outside their homeland.”
Over time, the term expat became popular in international environments to refer to professionals working abroad for a certain period.
Today, it is especially used in contexts such as:
- Multinational companies
- International talent mobility
- International communities in major cities
- Corporate relocation programs
In global cities like Barcelona, Madrid, London, or Berlin, expat communities are increasingly common.
Difference between expat, immigrant, and digital nomad
Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, expat, immigrant, and digital nomad describe different situations.
Expat
An expat is typically a qualified professional living temporarily in another country for work. Common characteristics:
- Temporary relocation
- Professional motivation
- International contract or corporate transfer
- Stays of months or a few years
Immigrant
An immigrant usually relocates with the intention of settling permanently in another country. Main characteristics:
- Permanent change of residence
- Long-term integration
- Life project in the new country
Digital nomad
A digital nomad works remotely and can move between countries frequently. Common characteristics:
- Online or freelance work
- Constant mobility
- Short or medium stays in different cities
Although there are differences, these three profiles share something in common: they need flexible housing options adapted to temporary stays.
Why do companies send expats to other countries?
Many international companies use expats to support global expansion and transfer knowledge between offices.
The most common reasons include:
Opening new markets
A company may send an experienced professional to lead the launch of operations in another country.
Knowledge transfer
Expats help transfer corporate culture, processes, and technical expertise between international offices.
Managing international projects
In sectors such as technology, consulting, or engineering, professionals may relocate for months or years to work on specific projects.
Professional development
Working as an expat is also part of international career development plans in many companies.
How long does an expat usually live abroad?
The duration of an expat assignment can vary depending on the project or professional contract. Typical stays include:
- 3 to 6 months for specific projects
- 1 to 3 years for corporate relocations
- Renewable stays under international contracts
During this period, professionals often look for flexible accommodation, as they may not know exactly how long they will stay in the city.
For this reason, options like coliving or temporary rentals are especially popular among expats.
What type of housing do expats look for?
When moving to a new country, one of the main challenges is finding accommodation quickly and easily. Expats typically prioritize:
Flexibility
Contracts adapted to stays of several months without long-term commitments.
Furnished housing
Move-in-ready spaces without the need to buy furniture.
International community
Many expats value living in spaces where they can meet others in similar situations.
Strategic location
Well-connected neighborhoods, close to workplaces or public transport.
For these reasons, coliving has become an increasingly popular solution among expats, as it combines accommodation, community, and flexibility in one place.
Frequently asked questions about expats
What does expat mean exactly?
An expat is a person who temporarily lives outside their country of origin, usually for professional or work-related reasons.
What is the difference between an expat and an immigrant?
An expat typically relocates temporarily, while an immigrant usually settles permanently in the new country.
How long does an expat usually live abroad?
It depends on the project or employment contract, but many expat stays last from several months to a few years.
Where do expats usually live?
Many expats choose temporary rentals, furnished apartments, or coliving spaces, which offer flexibility and make it easier to adapt to a new city.
Is Barcelona a popular city for expats?
Yes. Barcelona is one of the most attractive destinations for international professionals due to its tech ecosystem, quality of life, and international community.
