There are some difficulties of dating a foreigner, but it’s still possible to have a happy relationship with someone of a different nationality. Nowadays lots of people move to another country either for work or some other reasons, and it’s increasingly common and easy to meet and fall in love with a foreigner.
There are some kinds of linguistic and cultural differences that can actually complicate the relationship! Here are some obstacles when dating a foreigner and tips for overcoming them.
1. Cultural differences
Even if couples come from similar cultures, there are some essential differences in the way they view things. And if you and your partner come from different cultural backgrounds, then the potential for problems may be even greater. I’m not going to say that your relationship won’t work, but you should be aware of the numerous pitfalls.
2. Language
The second obstacle when dating a foreigner is language problems. If you don’t share the same native language and you are not fluent in the foreign language, you can misunderstand each other. You both need tolerance and patience of any mistakes.
More: 7 Tips for Improving Your Foreign Language Skills.
3. Where to live
This might be hard to decide on. Would you like to live in another country? Is the country too far away from your family and friends?
Would the culture be too different to adapt to? What are the legal issues? And one of the most important questions – would you be happy living in a foreign country?
4. Legal issues
When you have a relationship with foreigner, you can have some legal issues to deal with, concerning his or your residential and working status. Moreover, if you plan to have kids, you should investigate what rights each parent has and what children’s status would be.
5. Children
Nowadays a lot of women have met with difficulties when having children with foreigners. If you are going to start a family with a man from a very different culture, you should consider all the relevant issues and be informed about all serious legal consequences.
What language will your children speak? Which religion will they be brought up? Could you return to your home country with your kids? Could your partner take your children away if you break up?
6. Family hostility
Many families are not always glad that their daughter or son is dating a foreigner, and if your or your partner’s family takes that attitude, it can cause lots of difficulties. Even if you ignore it, parent’s influence can create problems. You have a right to date whom you want, but you should be aware of the possibility.
7. Patience
It’s not easy to make any relationship work and dating a foreigner can be even more challenging. You and your partner should have a lot of patience not only with language problems, but all the other differences. If you or your partner can’t accept the problems and differences, then your relationship won’t work.
8. Experience
This is not an obstacle, but it is also important to know. Even though there are many problems when you date someone from a different country, it can be an amazing experience.
You learn a new language and culture, and get to visit foreign country. It can also be interesting!
Have you ever had an experience with dating a foreigner? What major challenges and problems did you face? Share your thoughts, please!
