The adaptation of expatriates in Europe

Abstract

Despite an expanding research interest in the topic of expatriation, there is still a significant gap in our understanding of the expatriation process. This article presents recently collected research data on the experiences of Finnish expatriates adjusting to living and working in other European countries. It is argued that the process of adaptation varies considerably between countries and, on that basis, argues that the existing models of adaptation are useful, but themselves need adaptation. The article also offers recommendations for expatriates and for the organisations that employ them.