Expatland may not have its own government or a specified geographical territory, but its inhabitants all need legal, accounting and living advice before they move to this ‘country’ of more than 230 million.
John Marcarian, author of the book bearing the same name, coined the term “Expatland” to describe the ‘special country’ where global expatriates live.
The Singapore-based Australian expat has developed a business around helping fellow expats organise their employment, accounting and legal affairs to suit their impending international move, and wrote Expatland as a guide book for future residents of this vast ‘country’ of global citizens.
Expatland will be launched during an event at ABN AMRO Bank, Level 70, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, on Tuesday, May 5, at 7pm. Guest speakers at the event include former Australian Cricket Captain Greg Chappell and Australian Fast Bowler Jeff Thomson.
“If Expatland were a country, its population would be that of more than 230 million people of different nationalities. In fact, if it were a single ‘country’, it would be the fifth largest in the world after China, India, US and Indonesia,” Mr Marcarian said.
“Global citizens are travelling to live and work more widely than at any time in the past 50 years. This means the need for cross-border fiscal compliance, accounting services, legal and estate planning is essential,” he said.
One such global citizen is Expatland Ambassador and former Socceroo David Mitchell, who will also be at the launch to share his experiences of life in Expatland.
Some of the myriad challenges facing expats on arrival in their new global home include:
- Terms and conditions of employment
- Finding a local support network
- Staying in touch with family, friends and colleagues
- Understanding the cultural differences between their home country and adopted Expatland country
- Whether they need to register with immigration authorities.
“The goal of the book is to guide the reader on how to consider strategies for adapting, living, surviving and thriving in Expatland,” Mr Marcarian said.
For more information about Expatland, where copies can be purchased and additional international launches visit www.expatland.com.
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