What is a Young Professional?

A Young Professional is a term used to describe a recent graduate or someone in the early stages of their career, typically between the ages of 20 and 28. Young professionals are often highly educated (holding a university degree) and have 0 to 5 years of work experience.

Key characteristics of a Young Professional:

• Higher education background (Bachelor’s/Master’s degree)
• 0–5 years of work experience

What is an Expat?

An Expat (short for expatriate) is someone who lives and works in a foreign country, often for an extended period but without permanently settling there. Expats are usually employed by international companies, government institutions, or NGOs, and they may be transferred to a foreign office or move abroad for better job opportunities.

Expats generally intend to stay for a temporary period, often based on a work contract or assignment.

Key characteristics of an Expat:

• Lives and works in a country other than their country of origin
• Often employed by international companies or on work assignments
• Usually stays temporarily (e.g., 1–5 years), but this can vary
• May receive relocation support, housing, and other benefits from employers

What is the difference between a Young Professional and an Expat?

A Young Professional is defined by career stage (early in their professional journey), while an Expat is defined by location (working outside their home country). A Young Professional can work in their home country or abroad, whereas an Expat always works in a foreign country. Someone can be both a Young Professional and an Expat at the same time (e.g., a 26-year-old consultant from Spain working in the Netherlands).