Tell us, expats - is the grass greener?

Calling all expatriates of any nationality! Have you moved overseas for a better quality of life for your family, to pursue a career opportunity or simply for a change of scenery to the place you always adored? If you have then we really want to hear from you and this is the opportunity to make sure your voice is heard.

Whatever initiated your move ‘The Expat Survey’ invites you to share your opinions on a variety of different topics. Whilst there are the usual questions requiring you to tick boxes, the research study breaks away from convention and enquires about your experience, whether or not expectations have been fulfilled, what expats miss about home and requests tips and advice for others contemplating a move to a new continent. Your input will make a valuable contribution to understanding how those residing outside their country of origin can be supported, so that organisations and companies that specialise in servicing expatriate communities and individuals can understand their needs better.

In a world of rapid change and volatile economies, with the diversification and consolidation of businesses resulting in employment instability and mounting stress, many have chosen to move overseas in the belief that the grass is greener on the other side. For some a permanent move, for others temporary; in many cases for a life-style change, for others there has been no choice. Whether it has proven to be the best or worst decision you ever made, your feedback is essential.

‘The Expat Survey’ is being conducted by i-World Research, an independent research company and is the largest and most comprehensive global study ever undertaken into migration and expatriate life. Led by the ex-head of research for BBC World and ex-research director for Saatchi & Saatchi, it does not share any information with third parties and has no links to Governments whatsoever. It is entirely independent and promoted, but not sponsored, by almost 100 publishers and reputable companies servicing expatriates around the world, such as the international accountancy firm Chantrey Vellacott DFK and the specialist expatriate insurance company Clements Worldwide.

Conducted as an annual rolling programme the study comprises three surveys – ‘Migration & Lifestyle’ start date 15th July, ‘Retail & Finance’ start date 30th September and ‘Travel & Health’ start date 5th November 2013. Whilst the main thrust of each survey lasts 8 weeks, all surveys will remain live until 31st December so that a continual collection of responses takes place.

Those that complete all three surveys are automatically entered into a prize draw to win £1,000, which you can opt to donate to charity if you wish.

Please go to www.theexpatsurvey.com to find out more and complete the first survey which has now gone live.