Journal of Economic and Social Dynamics

Abstract

International relocation is usually framed through the lens of the primary employee’s assignment, while the experiences of accompanying expat partners often remain invisible. Drawing on qualitative interviews with expats living in Luxembourg, this paper examines the career disruption, identity loss, and integration chal lenges they face, as well as the strategies employed to restart professional lives abroad. Findings highlight four major themes: loss of professional identity, social isolation, children’s integration as a pathway to family adaptation, and career re-entry through reskilling or entrepreneurship. The study argues that expat partners are critical actors in the success or failure of international assignments. Implications are offered for multina tional companies, policymakers, and future research.