Are Expats Really Less Welcome? Debunking the Narrative
Why the World is Still Open—Despite Online Outrage
Spend enough time scrolling through social media, and you’ll start to believe that expats and digital nomads are being pushed out of cities worldwide.
Headlines claim locals are growing resentful, governments are tightening visa restrictions, and the golden age of living abroad is coming to an end. But is this actually the case, or is it just another internet-fueled exaggeration?
The rise of remote work has made living abroad more accessible than ever, yet at the same time, conversations about expat privilege, gentrification, and local frustrations have become more common. While some claim foreign residents are being "driven out," the reality on the ground often tells a different story.
Despite the dramatic headlines, most people living abroad still find the world to be welcoming. In many ways, opportunities for expats and digital nomads are increasing, not disappearing.
The Rise of Anti-Expat Sentiment Online
If you base your perspective on social media, you’d think expats and digital nomads are being run out of cities across the world. Viral tweets, TikTok rants and forum threads paint a picture of growing resentment toward foreigners. But how much of this reflects real-world sentiment?
Social media amplifies local frustrations, making them seem more widespread than they are.
Clickbait headlines exaggerate conflicts, focusing on dramatic anecdotes instead of broader trends.
Platforms like Twitter and TikTok thrive on outrage, making “expat backlash” stories go viral, even when they aren’t representative.
Much of the anger aimed at expats and digital nomads isn’t really about them—it’s about gentrification, rising costs of living, and economic policies.
Locals struggling with rent increases often blame foreigners, but in reality, landlords and real estate developers are the ones driving prices up.
Economic shifts caused by inflation, tourism booms and urban development policies impact everyone—not just locals.
Many expats aren’t rich—they’re remote workers or long-term travelers adjusting to affordable living options.
The “Digital Nomads Ruined It.”
Every few months, a new city becomes the target of outrage. Whether it’s Mexico City, Lisbon or Bali, the cycle looks the same:
A few viral posts complain about foreigners “taking over.”
News outlets run dramatic stories about locals being displaced.
Online debates spiral into a moral panic about digital nomads.
People on the ground? Most haven’t even noticed a difference.
In reality, most locals are indifferent or welcoming to expats. The online discourse, while loud, doesn’t always reflect actual experiences.
On-the-Ground Reality: Are Expats Actually Less Welcome?
✅ Tourism & Immigration Stats:
Many countries are seeing record-high numbers of international arrivals post-pandemic.
Immigration policies are adapting to attract skilled professionals, retirees, and entrepreneurs.
✅ Economic Dependence on Expats:
Countries with digital nomad and investor visas are banking on foreign talent and spending.
Expats contribute to local economies through rent, dining, and services, often supporting industries that locals rely on.
✅ Local Hospitality Remains Strong:
Many expats report that their real-life experiences don’t match the hostility they see online.
In most places, locals are indifferent or welcoming, especially when expats make an effort to integrate.
Case Studies: Where Expats Are Thriving
🌏 Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Thailand introduced its Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR) for wealthy individuals, retirees, and skilled professionals.
Malaysia revived its Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, showing continued interest in attracting foreigners.
Indonesia now offers a Bali digital nomad visa, allowing long-term stays without local taxation.
🌎 Latin America (Mexico, Colombia, Brazil)
Mexico remains one of the most popular expat destinations, with a straightforward temporary residency visa process.
Colombia introduced the Digital Nomad Visa in 2022, welcoming remote workers.
Brazil is easing foreign work requirements, attracting professionals and entrepreneurs.
🇪🇺 Europe (Portugal, Spain, Italy)
Portugal and Spain have expanded digital nomad and freelancer visa programs, despite heated debates over gentrification.
Italy’s "residenza elettiva" visa remains a favorite for long-term expats and retirees.
While some golden visa programs have been restricted, digital nomad-friendly policies are growing.
The Bottom Line?
While some locals may express frustration about rapid changes in their cities, most governments and economies still actively encourage foreigners to settle, invest, and contribute. The world isn’t closing itself off to expats—if anything, it’s adapting to better integrate them.
Understanding Cultural Tensions
Expats who make an effort to understand and respect local culture are far less likely to encounter hostility. The frustration often stems from foreigners who:
Expect local culture to adapt to them instead of the other way around.
Treat the city as a playground rather than a home where people have deep-rooted communities.
Engage in economic behaviors that hurt locals, such as driving up rent prices or disregarding local wages.
Examples of Expat Missteps That Create Resentment
🚫 Complaining About Local Customs
Criticizing cultural norms instead of adapting to them.
Expecting services, food, or infrastructure to match their home country.
🚫 Creating Expat Bubbles
Sticking only to expat communities and never engaging with locals.
How to Avoid These Common Pitfalls
✅ Learn the Language (Even Just the Basics)
Knowing how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and order food in the local language goes a long way.
Using apps or hiring a local tutor can show effort and respect.
✅ Support Businesses
Prioritize shopping at markets, restaurants, and small businesses instead of relying on Western chains.
Engage with local service providers—hairdressers, tailors, barbers, and cafes—to directly support the community.
The Bottom Line?
Most expats who experience backlash are not disliked just for being foreigners—they’re disliked for how they behave. By adapting, respecting local norms, and being mindful of economic impact, expats can avoid cultural tensions and be genuinely welcomed into the communities they choose to call home.
The World is Still Open, But Change is Inevitable
While social media narratives might suggest a growing hostility toward expats, the reality is far more complex. Yes, immigration debates and economic shifts have sparked discussions in some regions, but these tensions are not new—they’ve existed in different forms throughout history.
Some countries have tightened visa regulations, but others have expanded programs to attract remote workers, retirees, and investors.
Local frustrations often stem from economic pressures rather than a blanket rejection of foreigners.
In many places, expats who contribute positively to the community are still welcomed with open arms.
Economic Shifts Will Always Influence Local Attitudes
Rising costs of living, housing shortages, and job competition can create tensions—but this has always been the case, even within domestic populations.
Historically, waves of migration have been met with skepticism before being accepted as part of the economic and cultural fabric.
The solution isn’t for expats to leave—it’s to engage responsibly and recognize their role in the broader economic landscape.
Cultural Exchange Will Always Be Valued
Countries continue to invite skilled workers, creatives, and business owners because they see the benefits of global talent.
Those who make the effort to learn, connect, and integrate will always find places where they are welcomed.
Conclusion: Separating Fear from Reality
The idea that the world is becoming less welcoming to expats is largely an online narrative, not a lived reality. While social media thrives on outrage and negativity, real-world experiences tell a different story. Expats who respect local culture, contribute positively, and engage meaningfully still find welcoming communities, growing opportunities, and even government-backed incentives to settle in new places.
Recap: What’s Real and What’s Not?
✅ Fact: Some locals express frustration over rising costs and gentrification.
❌ Myth: All expats are being pushed out or treated with hostility.
✅ Fact: Some countries have adjusted visa policies due to economic or political factors.
❌ Myth: The world is shutting its doors to foreigners.
✅ Fact: Governments still actively create visa programs and incentives to attract expats, investors, and remote workers.
❌ Myth: Expats are being forced out everywhere.
Expats who thrive are the ones who embrace the culture, build real relationships, and approach new countries with humility. The world isn’t turning against foreigners—it’s evolving. Those who are willing to evolve with it will always find opportunities to explore, connect, and call new places home.