Making the leap from the United States to another country is an exciting adventure but it’s not without its share of surprises.
Many American expats quickly learn that life overseas is vastly different, and often wish they had been better prepared for the cultural, logistical, and emotional challenges ahead.
From healthcare to social norms, here are 15 things American expats commonly say they wish they had known before relocating abroad.
1. Healthcare Isn’t Always Cheaper Or Better
Many expats expect affordable and superior healthcare the moment they land abroad. While countries like Thailand or Spain offer low-cost services, others may surprise you with limited care in rural areas or long waiting lists.
Additionally, if you don’t speak the local language, explaining medical issues can become frustrating. International insurance plans often offer better access, but they cost extra and require upfront payment in many countries.
2. You’ll Miss the Convenience of 24/7 Service
In the U.S., grabbing coffee at midnight or filling a prescription at 3 a.m. is normal. Abroad, you may find stores closed on Sundays, restaurants shutting down between lunch and dinner, and almost nothing open after 9 p.m.
Even basic services like banking and government offices often run on strict, reduced hours. This requires a major shift in routine and expectations.
3. Your American Credit Score Doesn’t Follow You
If you’ve built excellent credit in the U.S., you might think it will help you abroad but it won’t. Each country has its own credit system, and your American credit history holds little value.
Building local credit may require time, a job contract, or even a local co-signer. Be ready to operate largely in cash or with a debit card for the first several months.
4. Not Everyone Is Friendly to Americans
Some people will warmly welcome you, while others may hold biases based on U.S. politics or stereotypes.
This doesn’t mean you’re unwelcome it just means you may need to demonstrate respect, humility, and cultural awareness.
Learning the local customs and avoiding loud, opinionated behavior can help foster better connections.
5. There’s More Bureaucracy Than You Expect
Registering your residency, opening a bank account, or enrolling your kids in school may involve more paperwork than you ever imagined. Procedures vary by region, and documents often need to be translated or notarized.
Appointments can take weeks, and sometimes you’ll need multiple in-person visits just to submit one form. Keep copies of everything and be prepared to follow up.
6. Cultural Norms Can Be Subtle but Impactful
You might know the language or the food, but what about etiquette? In some places, direct eye contact is rude. In others, showing up late is acceptable.
Personal space, noise levels, and dress codes all vary widely. Blending in means observing locals closely and asking questions when unsure.
7. Learning the Language Is More Important Than You Think
While major cities may accommodate English speakers, smaller towns usually do not. From reading street signs to ordering at restaurants or asking for help, knowing even basic phrases makes life smoother.
Locals often appreciate the effort and will respond more warmly when you try to communicate in their language.
8. Cost of Living May Not Be as Low as You Imagine
Yes, rent and groceries might be cheaper but imported goods, specialty foods, and tech gadgets can be far more expensive.
Also, you may have to pay extra for conveniences you’re used to, like air conditioning or a reliable internet connection. Budget carefully and expect some trade-offs.
9. You Might Feel More American Than Ever
Being away from home often highlights what makes you different. You might suddenly notice your American accent, social habits, or communication style standing out.
This isn’t a bad thing it can give you a stronger sense of identity and help you appreciate both cultures more deeply.
10. Homesickness Hits Hard And Unexpectedly
You may feel fine for weeks, then suddenly miss small things like your favorite snack, the sound of English on the radio, or holiday traditions.
Homesickness can sneak up during birthdays, Thanksgiving, or when you see friends gathering back home. Creating new routines and keeping in touch through video calls can ease the loneliness.
11. Time Zones Will Complicate Communication
Living across several time zones from your loved ones complicates real-time conversations. A 9 a.m. call for you could be midnight for someone back home.
Scheduling becomes a constant math puzzle, and staying emotionally connected takes more intentional effort.
12. Dating and Relationships Can Be Very Different
Cultural norms around relationships differ greatly. Some countries have conservative dating practices, while others are more casual.
Gender roles, expressions of affection, and even how relationships progress may feel unfamiliar. Learning about these differences helps avoid misunderstandings and fosters mutual respect.
13. You’ll Likely Experience “Reverse Culture Shock”
Returning home after months or years abroad often leads to unexpected feelings of disconnect. Things you once loved like fast food or busy highways may now feel excessive or even overwhelming.
You might also notice how much your mindset has changed, which can make reintegrating into U.S. life more difficult than expected.
14. Finding Community Is Crucial
The sooner you build a support network, the faster you’ll feel grounded. Expats who connect with locals, join clubs, or meet other foreigners tend to adjust better.
Look for expat groups, language exchanges, coworking spaces, or local volunteer opportunities to create a sense of belonging.
15. It Takes Time to Feel “At Home”
No matter how prepared you are, settling into a new country is a slow process. It might take months to learn the language, adjust to new systems, and feel emotionally stable.
There will be setbacks and moments of doubt. But over time, your unfamiliar surroundings will start to feel like home, and you’ll grow in ways you never expected.
Alicia Richards