While people from all over the world compete to become citizens of the United States, the number of Americans leaving the country has increased. This article will give a deeper understanding of some reasons accounting for this phenomenon.
United States Citizens Diversifying Their Cultural Experiences
America is well-known for being one of the most culturally diverse countries due to massive waves of immigration. In 2020, records stated that around 707,362 immigrants had legal permanent residence in the United States. While immigrants contribute to the diversity of American culture, Americans are also broadening their horizons by emigrating from the US.
In 2016, 8.7 million Americans went abroad, doubling the number of expatriates from 1999. The Association of Americans Resident Overseas stated that these 8.7 million people were distributed in six different areas universally.
Many Americans immigrate to the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. This data raises the question: “Why do Americans choose to reside in nations where English is not spoken?”
Inclusion Is The Key
One of the critical reasons for the high number of immigrants in America is that the country provides a welcoming environment for them. Although there are still some immoral issues against immigrants, there are an increasing number of initiatives and campaigns aimed at protecting their rights. For example, when racist crimes against Asians increased due to COVID-19 in 2020, the “Stop Asian Hate” campaign was formed to safeguard Asian people in America. Immigrants in the United States tend to feel welcome because of their community’s support.
In non-English speaking countries, Americans are also bounded by a loving environment. These countries’ inclusiveness entices Americans. “I love this country in a way that I can feel the spirit of patriotism inside me. I support the national football team and join every activity that the locals do,” Ethan said in the interview with Balance Now.
Foreigners can benefit significantly in non-English speaking countries because these countries are open to citizens of other races. Americans can obtain a job, use all the services, and have a comfortable life. They don’t have to deal with racism or hatred in these countries.
Many American content creators (Dan Hauer and Chris Lewis) made Youtube videos about visiting these places and meeting new people. The local people were warm, hospitable, and curious about Americans. Although Americans are from different nations, speak a foreign language, and have various skin tones and eye colors, Americans are always aware of the welcoming attitude around them. They are no longer visitors in a strange place but new citizens.
Job Availability
English is a globally dominant language, causing the number of English learners to increase significantly. In 2014, it was estimated that there were around 1.5 billion English learners around the world. Proportionally, native English teachers are always in great demand in non-English speaking countries. People in non-English speaking countries believe that by interacting with an English native speaker, they can enhance their English skills profoundly.
Understanding the market psychology and acknowledging their asset, their native language, Americans moving to non-English speaking countries pursue English teaching positions.
Since non-English speaking countries need native English speakers, landing a teaching job comes with relative ease for Americans. “When we have a qualified teaching certification, finding an English teaching job is not so hard. Although in the beginning, you may not find a very high-paid job for entry-level, you can get a job with a good salary that you can still afford for everyday life,” Ethan Blonder, who teaches Economy and Business in English at an international school in Hanoi, Vietnam, stated.
Higher salary + lower cost of living = a comfortable life
Being American in non-English speaking countries has its advantages regarding the cost of living. According to recent estimates, the entry-level salary for native English speakers is among the highest among popular jobs in Vietnam.
Not only are they getting paid higher than other jobs, but native English teachers are also paid higher compared to the local cost of living, which is around $1000 per month (in Vietnam). Moreover, according to the World Bank International Comparison Program, the cost of living in some non-English speaking countries is lower than that in America.
With higher salaries and lower cost of living, most Americans find it easier to manage their life in non-English speaking countries.
“With this range of salary, in America, I cannot stay in the downtown of the city. As a result, I do not have much access to entertainment or transportation. However, with the same range of salary, in Vietnam, I can own a nice apartment located in a bustling commercial area. Restaurants and entertainment spots are all within walkable distance,” Ethan said.
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