Expat community apps and meeting people after moving abroad
Moving abroad often means rebuilding a social life from scratch. Here is how to combine apps, communities and local habits.
Meeting people after moving abroad can be one of the more difficult parts of settling in. Expat community apps can help quickly, while local friendships usually take longer.
Start with official resources
Many countries and cities publish settling-in guides. In Finland, for example, InfoFinland explains registration, work, housing and language courses in many languages. Language courses are also social spaces.
Expat communities
Expat groups offer people who understand the transition. They are a good first step, but try not to stay only there — local friendships help you feel at home.
Local communities
- Sports clubs and recreational teams.
- Language exchanges.
- Volunteering organisations.
- Library and community centre programmes.
Culture matters
Social norms differ. In some places people chat freely with strangers; in others, like Finland, friendships often grow through shared activities. Learning local habits helps.
When it gets lonely
The OECD’s 2025 report and WHO work on social connection show loneliness is common across countries. If it becomes heavy, seek support from local health services.
