10 things they don't tell you about being an American expat

The idea sounds dreamy - lazy mornings on the beach, fresh food markets, a slower, simpler life. And yes, some of it is true. But once the novelty wears off, real life sets in.

Things you didn't expect - like culture shock, homesickness, or trying to open a bank account in a language you barely speak - start to show up. And the big one? You still have to deal with US taxes. Yes, even if you haven't been back to the States in years.

That’s where working with an overseas tax consultant comes in. Someone who knows the rules, speaks IRS, and helps you stay on track.

Over 9 million Americans are living abroad. Each with their own mix of adventure, paperwork, and "why didn't anyone tell me this?" moments.

Before you pack up and go, or if you're already living the expat life, here are ten things no one talks about but they should.

1. You’ll always be “the American”

You could live abroad for ten years. Speak the language like a native. Know the culture inside and out. But people will still see you as the American.

Sometimes, it's fun. Locals might be curious about your accent, your views on politics, or why Americans love to tip. Other times? It gets old.

Even in places full of expats, the feeling of being an outsider can linger. Fitting in takes time and effort. And some days, no matter how hard you try, it still feels like you're just visiting.

2. Finding your people takes time

One of the hardest parts of moving abroad? Saying goodbye to your support system. Your family. Friends. That one neighbor who always grabbed your mail.

Once you land in your new country, it can feel... quiet. Locals often have tight-knit circles. And expats? They come and go.

You'll have to put yourself out there, join a language class, try a local hobby group, and show up at random meet-ups. Some friendships will last. Others won't. And while video calls help, they don't replace having someone close by when life gets tough.

It's not instant. But it's worth it.

3. Language is just the beginning

Speaking the local language is a big win, but it's not the whole story.

Real adjustment is in the little things. Like figuring out if you're supposed to wait in line... or just cut in front. Knowing when it's okay to joke or when silence says more. Understanding that in some places it's rude to be blunt - and in others it's expected.

Even simple things like grocery shopping, greeting strangers, and tipping can feel like deciphering a secret playbook.

These little moments add up. And before you know it, they change the way you see everything, including yourself.

4. “Home” starts to feel like a moving target

The longer you live abroad, the more blurred the concept of home becomes.

You may feel like a visitor in your new country no matter how long you've been there. Then you go back to the US... and feel like a stranger there, too.

Holidays get weird. Conversations with old friends don't flow like they used to. It's like you're stuck between two worlds, not quite in either one.

Eventually, you stop tying "home" to a zip code. It becomes the people around you. The routines that make your life feel normal. The one coffee shop you always return to.

5. US systems don’t pause just because you left

Living abroad doesn't just create emotional distance - it can also disconnect you from the paperwork side of life.

It's easy to forget to renew your US driver's license. Or update your voter registration. Or maintaining your credit history. But these things still matter, especially if you ever plan to move back or need to access services remotely.

Out of sight, out of mind? Not a good strategy here.

A little maintenance every year, an address update, and a credit card with a US bank can save you a lot of trouble down the road.

6. The IRS doesn’t care that you moved

Here's a shocker for a lot of people: just because you left the US doesn't mean you left the IRS.

The US is one of the few countries that taxes based on citizenship - not where you live. So, even if you haven't set foot in the US for years, you still have to file a US tax return every year.

And it's not just the basic stuff. You may have to report your foreign bank accounts (FBAR) or declare your foreign assets (FATCA). If you're self-employed, receive a pension, or invest overseas? Things get even messier.

So much so that many expats end up hiring a foreign tax advisor - someone who actually understands how it all works.

7. Banking abroad isn’t always a breeze

You might think that opening a bank account in your new country would be easy. It's not.

Thanks to US laws like FATCA, many foreign banks don't want to deal with American customers. Some require reams of paperwork. Others just say no.

Even if they do let you open an account, they may report your activity directly to the IRS. That's stressful even if you do everything by the book.

Do your homework before you leave. Look for banks that are expat-friendly or that specialize in working with US citizens abroad. It'll save you time, aggravation, and headaches.

8. Your cost of living may swing wildly

Many people move abroad because they think things will cost less. Sometimes, that's true. But not always.

In some places, housing near expat hubs is sky-high. Imported items - like peanut butter or your favorite shampoo - can cost twice as much. If you have children, international schools can quickly eat up your budget.

Then, there's the exchange rate. One small currency fluctuation can send your monthly costs soaring.

Oh, and don't forget "foreigner pricing." It's a thing.

Budgeting abroad means staying flexible. Plan for surprises. Track your expenses. And build in a little cushion just in case.

9. Healthcare systems may not be what you expect

Some countries have amazing public health care. Others? Not so much.

In one place, you might get fast, affordable care. In another, you might have to wait a long time or pay everything up front. What if you don't have residency or the right insurance? You could be stuck with the entire bill.

That's why many American expats choose international health insurance. It's not cheap, but it gives you peace of mind.

Like so many things abroad, health care works differently. And figuring it out is just another part of adjusting to your new "normal.

10. You still have to file US taxes - every year

Here's the part no one warns you about: Moving abroad doesn't get you off the hook with the IRS.

Even if you earn zero dollars in the US, you still have to file a federal tax return every year. Already paying taxes in your host country? It doesn't matter.

And it's not just the tax return. You may have to file FBARs for your foreign bank accounts, report assets under FATCA, or claim credits to avoid paying taxes twice.

The rules are confusing. And they change. A lot.

That's why so many expats rely on a foreign tax advisor. Someone who knows both the US system and how it plays into your life abroad. They'll help you avoid costly mistakes and keep the IRS off your back.

Conclusion 

Being an American expat can be amazing. Eye-opening. Totally worth it.

But it also comes with a long list of things that no one talks about - until you're living them.

It's not just learning a new language or finding the best local coffee spot. It's about juggling two lives in two places. Emotionally. Socially. Financially.

Whether you're just starting out or already deep into expat life, remember you don't have to figure everything out by yourself. Especially the tax stuff.

If you're not sure where to start, talk to an expatriate tax advisor who knows the ropes. Because filing from abroad doesn't have to be a mess.

And you've got enough on your plate already.