Budgeting for Language Learning To Retire Abroad
Are you dreaming of a serene retirement in the Italian countryside or the bustling streets of Paris? While retiring abroad offers the promise of both adventure and tranquility, it’s not a decision to take lightly. Moving overseas involves careful planning, not only for the financial aspects of the transition but also for the language skills you’ll need to thrive. Budgeting for language learning is an essential step to ensure your dream retirement doesn’t turn into a frustrating and costly mistake.
The Cost of Moving Abroad — and Moving Back
Relocating to another country is expensive. From housing and healthcare to visas, and transportation, the initial costs can be significant.
But what’s even more costly—financially and emotionally—is returning to your home country after an unsuccessful move. Whether it’s buying a new home or readjusting to life back in the U.S., the expenses and psychological toll of failure can be staggering.
CNN recently showcased the story of a California couple whose move to France ended up in a resounding failure, so much so, that they felt they had no other option than to move back to the U.S.
“You’ve got to have a plan B,” she says. “What if this doesn’t work out? I mean, we could never afford to buy back into California, because it’s really expensive.''' (Source: CNN)
Many baby boomers benefited from investing in real estate and securing low-interest rates. However, it's important to remember that once you sell your home, returning to the market could mean facing significantly higher housing costs and interest rates.
This is why planning ahead, including budgeting for language learning, is vital. Language skills play a pivotal role in making your move successful and avoiding the need to move back.
Language Skills: A Key Predictor of Success
There is a strong correlation between language proficiency and successful integration into a new country. Those who take the time to learn the language of their new home country find it easier to navigate daily life, build friendships, and immerse themselves in the culture. On the other hand, those who return often cite language barriers as one of the main reasons for their struggles. Simply put, learning the local language can mean the difference between thriving abroad and giving up.
Joanna, who decided to return to the US after a year in France, reflected on her experience: “I honestly don’t think we could have put in any more effort to acclimatize to the French way of life.” (Source: CNN)
However, in the same interview, Joanna admitted: “I have been so busy packing, unpacking, assembling furniture etc. that I haven’t really found time to hunker down and start (learning French). It was always on my list but (I) just couldn’t find the time.” (Source: CNN)
These comments highlight how even those aware of the importance of acclimating to a new country can underestimate the critical role of language.
As the International Living Retire Better Overseas Master Plan advises: “If you’re unwilling to learn at least a bit of the native language of the country you live in, your daily life will be more difficult, and your social interactions will be restricted to other English-speaking expats and a few bilingual locals. There are so many fun and interesting ways to learn a new language that there is really no excuse for not trying.” (Source: From International Living’s Retire Better overseas master plan)
The Myth of “Picking It Up While There”
A common misconception among prospective expatriates is that they’ll naturally pick up the language once they arrive. While immersion can accelerate learning, it’s not a substitute for a solid foundation. Native speakers have their own lives to live and are unlikely to act as impromptu language tutors. Starting with no knowledge of the language can leave you feeling isolated and overwhelmed, especially during the critical first months. You should also not assume that locals will feel comfortable correcting your mistakes. Depending solely on naturally picking up the language through immersion could innocently and unknowingly leave you with stilted and error-ridden speech.
Language Skills Are a Practical Necessity
Language skills aren’t just nice to have; they’re essential for navigating your new life. From managing bureaucratic tasks like opening a bank account or securing a residency permit to forming social connections and mitigating culture shock, being able to communicate effectively from day one is crucial.
Without these skills, even simple tasks can become frustrating hurdles, dampening the excitement of your new life abroad. Keep in mind that outside of Paris and large cities, French people don’t speak English past the survival level.
A financial advisor to Americans living abroad shared that some of his clients “had their bank accounts closed with no warning, leaving them working through nuanced protocol in another language and without access to any funds. These types of complications aren’t uncommon." (Source: CNN)
Knowing the language shouldn’t be something left to happen organically once you’ve settled into your new life. It’s a skill you’re going to need from day one.
“Outside of major cities such as Paris, Lyon and Strasbourg, the language barrier can be problematic if you don’t have a solid grasp of French.” (Source: CNN)
How Much Language Do You Need?
At the very least, acquiring survival language skills is essential before moving to a foreign country. These skills include being able to introduce yourself, say hello and goodbye, express gratitude with phrases like "thank you" and "please," ask for help, inquire about the location of a bathroom, and find out how much something costs.
However, your goal isn’t merely to survive but to thrive in your new environment.
Consider for example the story of Glenda Tuminello who lives in Italy but has not yet mastered the language: When they go to the grocery to buy pecorino cheese, they always fear they’re not asking for the right amount, ending up with too much or too little. They also get lost in translation at the yogurt store. (Source: CNN)
To truly thrive in your new environment, we recommend aiming for a Novice High level on the ACTFL scale before relocating to successfully retire abroad. At this proficiency level, you’ll be equipped to handle a variety of real-world situations with confidence. Once you’ve arrived, it’s equally important to continue learning the language to avoid fossilization—a common issue where language skills plateau without further practice.
To give you an idea of the time commitment, reaching the Novice High level typically requires 50 to 75 hours of dedicated study. This effort enables you to acquire fundamental skills for senior travel and engage in basic conversations, introduce yourself, and navigate simple transactions, all of which serve as a foundation for deeper cultural integration.
Some people live abroad and never learn the language
True, and this is referred to as the "expat trap". This often goes hand in hand with seeking out others from their home country, such as fellow Americans, which will only deepen your isolation from the local culture. While this can create a comforting sense of community, it reinforces reliance on familiar habits and perspectives rather than encouraging meaningful interactions with locals. By surrounding yourself with people who share your language and cultural norms, you also shield yourself from the experiences that come with embracing a new environment. Essentially, you are missing the essence of truly living abroad.
Cynthia Wilson who retired to Portugal with her husband, witnessed it firsthand:
“Many people moving to Portugal like to call themselves ‘expats’ and spend their time at ‘Meetups’ where they can whine to other ‘expats’ about how no one in Portugal speaks English, how they can’t find their exact brand of tinned beans and accuse the ‘natives’ of being impossible to get to know,” she says. (Source: CNN)
The only way to truly acclimate to your new environment and make deep connections is to learn the local language and culture.
Leave The US: Best Places For Expats To Live ““without good language skills, it is always harder to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and find friends” Says InterNations founder Malte Zeeck
How ICLS Can Help You Reach Your Goals
At ICLS, we’ve spent 60 years training diplomats, military personnel, international organization personnel, and other professionals in effective language acquisition and intercultural competency. Our programs are designed to be flexible, catering to a wide range of learning needs and schedules. Here’s how you can build your language skills with us:
- Private Packages: Begin with an intensive, personalized program to log 30 hours of foundational learning.
- Group or Lifelong Classes: Transition to a more collaborative setting to build conversational fluency while staying engaged.
- Partner Learning: Maximize your private classes by learning alongside your spouse or partner, creating a shared experience that enhances motivation.
With ICLS, you can mix and match programs to suit your pace and lifestyle, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for your move abroad.
Budgeting for Language Learning: A Crucial Investment
Moving abroad is a significant life change, and budgeting is key to making it a success. While it’s easy to focus on costs like flights, housing, and health insurance, it’s just as important to allocate funds for language learning. This minimal investment can help safeguard your dream and prevent it from turning into a nightmare. The cost of language learning is a fraction of what you’d spend if you were forced to move back due to a lack of preparation.
Conclusion
Retiring abroad is can be an exciting and rewarding adventure, but it comes with challenges. By planning ahead and budgeting for language learning, you can equip yourself with the skills needed to navigate your new life with confidence. Don’t let language and cultural barriers stand in the way of your dream. Start your journey today with ICLS and make your retirement abroad a success story.
