What do expats really think about their life abroad? Do they give it the big thumbs up, or regret their decision to leave their country of origin? Last year 80% of expatriates confirmed they have an improved quality of life where they now live. 72% said they enjoy a better climate and scenery, 67% an enhanced work/life balance and 63% a much greater sense of security. With all that is going on in the world, the team at The Expat Survey reviews these and a broad range of other opinions each year; and whether or not they ever intend to return to their homelands.During 2013 expatriates from all walks of life completed the research study including high net worth individuals, business executives, career movers, international students, economic and war zone migrants. Zooming in on highlights from last year’s programme and focussing on current affairs and trends, there’s something everyone. New topics for the 2014 include education and studying abroad, politics and voting rights, changes in attitude towards investments, life’s little luxuries, fashion and lifestyle; as well as mental, physical and spiritual health.

Many expatriates are overseas due to the nature of their work and so the programme is very interested in hearing from those that have relocated in pursuit of better opportunities for themselves and their families. Maybe they work for the oil and gas, utilities and mining sector or financial, technology or hospitality industries. No matter what their background is and where they are now their opinions are of equal importance to the project.

Specialising in the communication and consumption habits of those on the move and how human beings qualify their own personal identities, the i-World research unit is independent (it genuinely engages with expatriates organically and is not owned or its contents influenced by a media company or Corporate) and has more than 25 years experience in analysing international markets. It really wants to hear from expatriates over 18 years that are currently living outside their country of origin for more than 6 months in any one year; on either a temporary or permanent basis. Whether they are a business owner, employee, full time parent, student, retiree or any other status their contribution is very important. Those that complete all three questionnaires are automatically entered into a series of prize draws with £1,000 cash, Amazon vouchers and Lebara SIM Cards to be won. Expats can also opt to join their growing international focus group.

The Expat Survey is the largest and most in-depth annual online research programme of its kind (it is also available by post, simply text name and address to +44 (0) 7792 045121).  In 2013 expatriates of 89 nationalities responded from 125 countries to a total of 152 questions, producing the most comprehensive multi-topic profiles on their lives abroad. Comprising three questionnaires – Migration & Lifestyle, Retail & Finance and Travel & Health, the first part of their 2014 research programme is now live at www.theexpatsurvey.com   

With no links to Governments and no personal details shared, the team hopes expatriate from all over the world will feel welcome to engage, express their views and share their adventures and experiences.