Expatriate Life: Does It Influence the Desire to Retire in Your Home Country?
Introduction
Living abroad for a significant portion of your life as an expatriate can profoundly shape your life choices, including where you intend to spend your retirement years. In this article, we explore the scenario of a seasoned expatriate, sharing their experience and the factors that influence their decision to retire in their home country.
A Decade in the UK and Two Decades in Asia
In the testimony of a long-term expatriate, we have 25 years of life spent in two different countries—22 years in the UK and 23 years in Asia. Despite maintaining ties with the UK, including friends and occasional visits, this expatriate has no desire to return permanently and intends to retire in Malaysia.
The Malaysian Domicile and Residency
The journey to Malaysian residency began with a three-year contract in Malaysia. Not finding fulfilling employment, the expatriate might have considered returning to the UK, but this was impeded by Malaysia's policies. However, after nearly a decade, the expatriate received permanent residency, thus eliminating the need to continue working and apply for other residency programs.
The expatriate outlines their current considerations, stating they cannot imagine permanently returning to the UK due to several negative factors. The UK today presents a stark contrast to the country they left behind, with freezing winters, high house prices, and a high cost of living. Moreover, the quality of life, including safety and crime rates, is another deterrent.
Friendship Dynamics and Home Country Connections
In the early years, the expatriate had a close-knit group of friends, mainly other expatriates who were part of their work life. Over time, most of these expatriates returned to their home countries, with only local Malaysian friends remaining. This shift in camaraderie has significantly influenced the expatriate's decision-making process.
Implications for Other Expatriates
The experience shared by this expatriate offers valuable insights for others who may be considering their future retirement plans. It highlights the importance of environmental, economic, and social factors in shaping one's decision to live in a particular country.
The choice between an expatriate lifestyle and returning to one's home country for retirement is complex and deeply personal. While economic factors play a significant role, the quality of social connections and the overall environment cannot be ignored.
For those planning for retirement, reflecting on these aspects can help in making informed decisions that align with their values and lifestyle preferences.
Keywords: expatriate, retirement location, home country