Expat vs. Immigrant: What’s the Difference?

Expat vs. Immigrant: What’s the Difference, and Why It Matters

When people move from one country to another, the terms “expat” and “immigrant” are often used to describe their journey. However, these two words carry different connotations and have sparked controversy about their meanings and societal implications. Let’s explore what these terms mean, why they matter, and why I’ve decided to redefine myself in this context.

Understanding the Terms

Expats (short for expatriates) are generally described as individuals who relocate to another country for work, study, or lifestyle reasons, often temporarily. They tend to maintain a strong connection to their home country and might not fully integrate into their host country’s culture.

Immigrants, by contrast, typically move with the intention of settling permanently, building a life, and fully integrating into their new environment. They often adopt the customs, language, and citizenship of their host country. While these definitions seem straightforward, societal biases have shaped how the terms are used and perceived.

The Controversy Behind the Words

One of the main issues with the terms “expat” and “immigrant” is how they’re applied. Historically, “expat” has been associated with privilege, often describing Western professionals in affluent roles abroad. Meanwhile, “immigrant” is more frequently used for individuals from less affluent nations, sometimes carrying unfair stereotypes about economic or survival-based migration.

These biases perpetuate inequalities, reinforcing the idea that certain nationalities or backgrounds are more deserving of respect or elevated status. As the world becomes more interconnected, such outdated distinctions feel increasingly inadequate.

Why I’m Calling Myself an Immigrant

For some time, I called myself an expat as I settled into life in Ghana. This was intentional—I was testing the waters, wanting to see if Ghana would be the right fit for me. Reading about a place and living there are vastly different experiences, and I wanted to give myself the freedom to evaluate whether this new environment aligned with my long-term goals and values.

But things have changed.

I’ve now obtained Ghanaian citizenship and have invested heavily in the country through personal, professional, and community ventures. Ghana has become my permanent home. With no intention of fully separating from it in the future, I’ve embraced this land as an integral part of my identity and future.

For these reasons, I am proud to call myself an immigrant. This word better reflects my commitment to Ghana, my integration into its culture, and my role in contributing to its development. It signifies permanence and belonging, which are values I hold close to my heart.

Why It Matters

The words we use are powerful. They shape how we see ourselves and how others perceive us. Choosing to call myself an immigrant is about more than semantics; it’s a declaration of my connection to Ghana and my intention to remain a part of its fabric. It’s also a small act of challenging the biases and hierarchies embedded in how these terms are traditionally applied.

I hope this shift inspires others to reflect on their journeys and consider how language can influence their identity and purpose. By embracing the term immigrant, I’m affirming my place in Ghana and celebrating the beauty of building a life across cultures.

What does the term immigrant mean to you? Let’s continue this conversation and explore how we can redefine belonging in a globalized world.