If you’ve ever traveled or lived abroad, you’ve probably heard the terms “expat” and “immigrant” thrown around. But what do they really mean? Why is a British banker in Dubai called an expat, while a Colombian moving to the U.S. for work is called an immigrant? Is it just about location, or is there something deeper—perhaps cultural, economic, or even political—at play?
In this blog, we’ll break down the origins, meanings, and perceptions of these two terms, exploring why some people are labeled expats while others are called immigrants—and the similarities and distinctions between the two words.
So, let’s dive in and unpack the differences behind these labels.
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Definition of Expatriate
An expatriate (expat) is a person who lives outside their native country, either temporarily or permanently. The term is commonly used for individuals who relocate for work, retirement, or personal reasons, often maintaining ties to their home country.
Origin of the Word
- Etymology: The word “expatriate” comes from the Latin roots:
- “ex-“ (out of, away from)
- “patria” (native land or fatherland)
- First Recorded Use: The term dates back to the 18th century, originally meaning someone banished from their homeland. Over time, it evolved to refer to people who voluntarily move abroad, especially professionals and retirees.
Historical Meaning & Evolution
- 18th Century: Originally meant someone banished or exiled from their homeland.
- 19th Century: Used to describe people voluntarily leaving their country, often for political reasons.
- 20th-21st Century: Became commonly associated with professionals, retirees, and skilled workers living abroad temporarily or semi-permanently.
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Today, “expat” is often used for Westerners temporarily living abroad, such as myself. I am an expat living in Colombia from the USA through a Digital Nomad Visa. I still fly back home every few months for a few weeks to stay close to my family and friends back home and to manage my general finances and my job.
On the flipside, this summer when my fiancé of 5 years and I get married, we plan to start the process of migrating to the USA, where then she will become an “immigrant” of the USA. At the same time, I will be in the process of changing my visa status in Colombia towards a pathway of citizenship where I will become an “immigrant” of Colombia. The both of us will be working on our own pathways towards citizenships in each other’s home country rather than a temporary stay. Thus, making us both immigrants and no longer expats. Does that make sense? Cool..
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Now speaking of the word, immigration, or immigrant. Let’s move on to the definition and meaning of the word “Immigrant.”
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Definition of Immigrant
An immigrant is a person who moves to a country permanently to live, work, or seek a better life. Unlike an expatriate, an immigrant is usually seen as someone who intends to settle long-term and integrate into the new society.
Origin of the Word
- Etymology: The word “immigrant” comes from the Latin roots:
- “in-“ (into)
- “migrare” (to move, migrate)
- First Recorded Use: The term appeared in English in the late 18th century and became widely used in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially with large waves of migration to the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
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Historical Meaning & Evolution of the Word “Immigrant”
1. Early Usage (18th-19th Century)
- The term “immigrant” was first recorded in 1790, during a period of increasing migration, especially to North America.
- It was mainly used to describe European settlers moving to countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.
2. 19th & Early 20th Century
- Mass immigration waves (e.g., Irish, Italian, and Eastern European migration to the U.S.) led to a broader social and political use of the term.
- Immigration laws, such as the U.S. Immigration Act of 1924, started shaping the legal meaning of an “immigrant” as someone requiring documentation and approval to settle.
3. Mid-to-Late 20th Century
- After World War II, immigration became associated with post-war reconstruction and economic migration, with millions moving from developing countries to industrialized nations.
- The term became increasingly tied to legal status, residency, and citizenship.
4. Modern Usage (21st Century)
- Today, “immigrant” is widely used in legal, political, and social contexts.
- It typically refers to people moving permanently for economic, safety, or family reasons.
- It contrasts with “expat”, which is often used for temporary, privileged migration.
More Than Just Labels
At first glance, the difference between an expat and an immigrant seems straightforward—one suggests a temporary stay, while the other implies long-term settlement.
Ultimately, both terms describe people who have left their home country in search of new opportunities, experiences, and/or a better life. And the last time I checked, that is what we all seek as humans. The pursuit of Happiness.
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