How expat women can build financial confidence abroad

Moving abroad often feels like an adventure. New places, new people, new opportunities – and then, out of nowhere, a letter in German lands in your mailbox that looks suspiciously like it might be important. Insurance? Taxes? Retirement contributions? Suddenly, the adventure feels a lot less romantic.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many expat women find themselves juggling unfamiliar rules, different financial systems, and a constant feeling that “I should really look into this someday.” But here’s the truth: financial clarity isn’t about knowing everything, it’s about taking the first steps with confidence. And the good news? You don’t have to do it alone! 

Step 1: Understand your financial landscape

Think of your finances as a map. When you move abroad, the map changes: new landmarks, different symbols, and sometimes even a language you can’t yet understand. No wonder many women feel lost. The first empowering step is simply this: take inventory.

Ask yourself:

• Where does my money come from? (Salary, freelance work, investments?) 
• Where does it go? (Rent, insurance, that irresistible bakery down the street…) 
• What contributions am I legally required to make in this country?

You don’t need to solve everything at once; just getting a clear picture already makes the terrain less intimidating.

One client once told me: “Before, my finances felt like a jungle. Now it’s more like a garden, still wild in parts, but at least I can see the paths.” 

Step 2: Boost your confidence around money decisions

Here’s a secret: financial confidence isn’t about numbers, it’s about mindset. Many women grew up with the message that money is complicated, boring, or “something men handle". Fast forward, and suddenly you’re managing cross-border bank accounts, expat pensions, or wondering which health insurance actually covers you.

The trick? Practice decision-making in small steps. Open that letter instead of ignoring it. Ask your HR department that “silly” question (spoiler: they’ve heard it before). Or schedule an hour to finally compare bank accounts.

Each small action builds confidence, like doing reps at the gym, but for your financial muscles. And yes, you’re allowed to celebrate every little win. Did you finally understand the difference between liability and health insurance? That deserves a glass to celebrate. 

Step 3: Learn the basics of insurance (without the jargon)

Insurance may not sound sexy, but here’s the thing: it’s what keeps life from turning into a Netflix drama. The key is to know the basics without drowning in jargon.

Ask yourself:

• What’s legally required (health insurance, for example)? 
• What’s smart to have (liability insurance if you own, drive, or even just spill coffee on someone’s laptop)? 
• What’s optional, depending on your life stage (disability or retirement products)? 

A simple rule of thumb: if a worst-case scenario would blow up your finances, you probably need coverage. Everything else is just “nice to have.” Remember, the goal isn’t to buy everything, it’s to buy peace of mind.

Step 4: Plan for the unexpected

Nobody likes to think about accidents, illness, or even death. But ignoring these topics doesn’t make them disappear. And here’s where many expat women discover something liberating: once you have a plan, the fear actually gets smaller.

Simple steps include:

• Having a will that works in your home and host country. 
• Setting up a power of attorney or healthcare directive (so decisions aren’t left to chance). 
• Keeping a “just in case” file: important documents, passwords, insurance numbers. 

Yes, it sounds heavy. But imagine the relief of knowing: “If something happens, my loved ones won’t have to figure it all out.” That peace of mind is priceless, and more empowering than any spa day.

Get financial guidance from Kerstin Brunner

Step 5: Seek knowledge and support

Here’s another truth: you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Expat life can sometimes feel isolating, but it’s full of networks, communities, and professionals who actually enjoy untangling complex systems (yes, we exist!).

Find women’s groups, online forums, or trusted advisors who can explain things in plain English (or German, or whichever language you need). Surrounding yourself with people who “get it” makes the whole journey lighter and even fun.

One of my favourite moments is when a client suddenly says: “Wait, that wasn’t as scary as I thought.” That’s when you know confidence is taking root.

A reflective pause: What’s your next step?

Take a moment and ask yourself: Where do I feel most uncertain right now? Is it about insurance? Retirement planning? Simply not knowing what I don’t know? Whatever comes to mind is your starting point.

Don’t try to fix everything in one day; just pick one step. Maybe it’s setting aside an evening to review your bank statements. Maybe it’s asking a friend how they handle health insurance. Or maybe it’s reaching out for professional support.

The important thing is this: financial clarity is not a finish line, it’s a process. Each small step makes the road ahead smoother and helps you feel more at home, wherever you live.

Embracing freedom and responsibility 

Living abroad as a woman means embracing both freedom and responsibility. Yes, it comes with challenges, but it also offers the chance to redefine your relationship with money, build independence, and create a future you feel excited about. And remember: you don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to start.