Relocating abroad is more than just packing your belongings and adjusting to a new job or school. One of the biggest challenges expats face is building a social network in an unfamiliar environment. Leaving behind family and friends can feel isolating, but forming new connections is crucial for settling in, feeling at home, and thriving in your new country.
If you’re wondering how to create a strong social circle as an expat, here are practical tips to help you meet people, build friendships, and enjoy your new life abroad.
1. Be Open to New Experiences
A move abroad is a fresh start, and one of the best ways to meet new people is to embrace experiences outside your comfort zone.
- Try activities you’ve never done before, such as cooking classes, hiking groups, or language exchanges.
- Attend cultural festivals and community events to immerse yourself in local traditions.
- Don’t be afraid to accept invitations—even if they’re slightly outside your usual interests.
The more open you are, the greater your chances of meeting people with shared or surprising interests.
2. Learn the Local Language
Even if your host country uses English widely, making an effort to learn the local language can open many doors. People appreciate when expats try to speak in their tongue, even if only at a basic level.
- Take language classes—many offer evening sessions specifically for newcomers.
- Practise daily, whether at the market, in cafés, or with neighbours.
- Use apps or join language exchange meetups where you can teach your native language while learning theirs.
Not only does this help you connect socially, but it also makes day-to-day life much easier.
3. Tap into Expat Communities
Expat networks are often the quickest route to building connections in a new country. These groups understand the challenges of moving abroad and can offer both social and practical support.
- Search for local expat groups on Facebook, Meetup, or Internations.
- Join professional associations or clubs linked to your industry.
- Attend expat-run events such as networking nights, charity drives, or international fairs.
Expat circles can serve as a bridge to meeting both fellow newcomers and locals.
4. Get Involved in Hobbies and Interests
Shared interests are a natural foundation for friendship. By joining groups that align with your hobbies, you’re likely to meet people with whom you already have something in common.
- Join sports teams, yoga studios, or dance classes.
- Explore book clubs, photography groups, or cooking workshops.
- Volunteer with local organisations, which is not only rewarding but also a great way to connect with the community.
5. Build Relationships at Work or School
Your workplace or university is often the easiest place to start building a social circle.
- Join after-work drinks, team outings, or social committees.
- Ask colleagues for recommendations on restaurants, gyms, or events.
- Offer to help others—it’s a simple way to create rapport.
For parents, schools can also be an excellent entry point. Playdates and school events provide opportunities to connect with other families.
6. Use Social Media and Apps
Technology makes it easier than ever to find and connect with people in a new country. Beyond traditional social platforms, there are apps designed specifically to help people meet.
- Meetup: Join groups based on interests, from hiking to tech.
- Bumble BFF: A platform to make friends rather than date.
- Eventbrite: Find local workshops, exhibitions, and networking events.
These tools are especially useful if you’re shy about approaching people in person at first.
7. Take the Initiative
It can be daunting to make the first move, but being proactive often pays off.
- Invite a colleague for coffee or lunch.
- Organise a small get-together at your home or a local café.
- Follow up quickly after meeting someone new—send a message or suggest another meet-up.
Most people are open to making new friends but may be hesitant to initiate; by taking the first step, you make it easier for them to respond positively.
8. Stay Patient and Persistent
Building genuine friendships takes time, and it’s natural to feel lonely in the beginning. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts don’t lead to lasting connections.
- Be consistent in showing up at events or group activities.
- Focus on quality over quantity—having a few meaningful friendships is more valuable than many surface-level contacts.
- Remember that many expats and locals alike are also seeking deeper connections.
9. Keep in Touch with Home
While building a new social circle, don’t forget to maintain ties with friends and family back home. Regular calls or messages can provide comfort and support during the transition. Just make sure not to rely on them entirely—balancing old connections with new ones is key to feeling settled.
Creating a social circle abroad can be one of the most rewarding aspects of expat life. It allows you to integrate more smoothly into your host country, gain cultural insights, and build a sense of belonging. By staying open, proactive, and patient, you’ll find yourself surrounded by new friends and experiences in no time.
At CM Relocation, we understand that moving overseas isn’t just about transporting belongings—it’s about creating a life in a new environment. That’s why we go beyond logistics, offering support and guidance for every stage of your relocation journey.
Start your relocation journey with us today—because settling in is about more than just the move.