Who is a self-initiated expatriate? Towards conceptual clarity of a common notion

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to enhance the conceptual coherence of the notion of a<br/>self-initiated expatriate (SIE). We propose a definition based on a set of conceptual<br/>criteria which differentiates SIEs from other types of international movers. This article<br/>defines who an SIE is according to four criteria which must all be fulfilled at the same<br/>time: (a) self-initiated international relocation, (b) regular employment (intentions),<br/>(c) intentions of a temporary stay, and (d) skilled/professional qualifications. The<br/>article discusses each of these criteria in turn and their implications on what it means to<br/>be an SIE. A research agenda related to the four criteria proposes various avenues<br/>which scholars could take to expand this area of research. The literature on SIEs is<br/>rapidly emerging, but the lack of conceptual clarity in defining this type of expatriate is<br/>as acute as incomprehensible, given the importance of this group of international<br/>movers.