An expatriate is someone who choses to live in a country other than the one in which they legally reside.

Most expatriates are citizens of a Western nation who has chosen to live in a non-Western country, such as one in South America, Asia, or Africa.

Expatriates are different to immigrants as most expatriates do not plan on reside in their new country permanently, and if they do, they plan on retaining their native citizenship for practical purposes.

Expatriates are often known simply as expats, and they often form their own communities in their new host countries.

In areas popular with expatriates, such as parts of Africa and South-East Asia, there are often services such as hotels and cafes that cater specifically to the needs of the local expatriate community.

Local and national governments may also be able to offer information and resources to potential expatriates, helping them navigate the sometimes confusing world of long-term visas and work permits.

The governments of many developing nations are happy to encourage expatriates with decent liquid assets or a steady source of income, as they view them as a stable financial base.