Repatriation
Moving back to your home country after years living abroad is considered to be the most challenging move an expat can make. Repatriation is often the forgotten phase in the expatriation cycle and it comes with its own unique challenges.
What should I expect?
After years abroad, the move back home may be a welcome change, but you should prepare yourself as much as you did when you left. Known as reverse culture shock, a repatriating expat can face both mental and physical challenges.
Your family and friends may expect you to slot back in like nothing has changed, and to some degree this will happen, however you have few shared experiences and your newly acquired skills, languages and experiences may not be recognised back home.
Mentally you may not feel like you fit in anymore, and it can be a lonely and difficult time for many. Some employers offer expatriate support and publications, so utilise these where available.
Physically you have to pack up your house and ship your possessions back home. This process can be quite taxing and time consuming. Relocation agencies can help. Also check with your current company of employ to see if there are any preferred sources or deals you can utilise.
The adjustment cycle
If you take the time to recognise the phases in the adjustment process cycle, (applicable to expatriation and repatriation) you will be able to recognise the feelings and in some way make it easier to cope with. The basic steps of the adjustment cycle can be seen here:
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Honeymoon Phase
Also known as the ‘tourist stage’. Where everything is new and you have enthusiasm, excitement and an overwhelming sense of adventure. You only see the positive aspects of your new host/home country. -
Hostility Phase
This is where you start to focus on the differences, and become critical of the way things are done. Often tiredness and irritation kick in, and many people suffer from depression. You start to question your reasons for moving. -
Humour Phase
The upwards slope of the adjustment cycle. You know how things work, you’ve figured out what is new/different and it’s just easier to laugh about it than cry. -
Home/Adjustment Phase
You start to feel at home. Your house is more settled, you have established friends and you start to adopt aspects of your new culture. A general feeling of balance is achieved.
Each person experiences this cycle differently, and it may take as little as a week to a number of months. There is no ideal time limit, so if repatriating remain conscious of the process, and seek support if needed.
- Tell a friend
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