Globalization is already here, and the question is whether it’s a good or bad thing. Considering that the divorce rate for such mixed couples isn’t any higher than for couples born in the same country, it’s a good thing. But what exactly are the pros and cons of marrying someone from another country? We’re going to talk about that in this guide.
Pros of marrying someone from another country
Let’s start with the benefits. Contrary to common belief, there are many important things that make such marriages satisfying for both partners.
1. Expanding the borders — literally and figuratively
First and foremost, dating someone from another country and culture is a fundamentally new experience. New experiences make us smarter, more educated, and more open-minded. Maybe the things you’ll learn from your partner will change your life and views, too.
Scientists even say that acquiring new knowledge, changing your surroundings, and experiencing new things reduce the chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease—that’s on top of feeling new emotions and having fun.
2. A lot of topics to discuss
Speaking of new knowledge—cross-cultural couples can exchange it all the time. It makes so many things so much easier, especially in the early stages of relationships. You won’t experience that awkwardness and won’t have to think about what to ask to keep the conversation going. Even when you’re dating for some time, the stories about different customs, lifestyles, traditions, and beliefs will never end.
3. More holidays and special events
Why not celebrate two holidays instead of just one? Did you know that, for example, in South Korea, there are several Valentine’s Days or at least similar holidays when couples spend time together?
By the way, on February 14th, it’s the woman who gives gifts to her boyfriend. Again, it’s about a richer cultural experience for both couples.
4. Smarter children
Intercultural couples also have more comprehensively developed, intelligent, and open-minded children. The reason is the same—unlike children raised by two partners who, in turn, were born and raised in the same cultural environment, children in mixed families acquire knowledge about twice as many traditions, customs, beliefs, lifestyles, and mindsets.
In most cases, they learn faster and better, have better grades, and are more successful overall (that, of course, also depends on how and in what social environment they are raised).
5. More trips than ever before
If you’re a traveler, you’ll love this. You’ll be able to travel to your spouse’s country all the time—after all, you’ll want to visit the family. Of course, this may be a drawback for those who prefer to spend time at home.
However, if you don’t mind adventure (especially if you find a partner in one of the exotic countries like the Philippines or Brazil), it will be a blast for you.
Cons of marrying someone from another country
Of course, there are also disadvantages of marrying a foreigner, and you should consider them as well to have more realistic expectations.
1. Long-distance relationship challenges
If you’re not going to migrate to another country, you’ll have to do the long-distance thing, and that will be tough. Don’t get us wrong—over 70% of couples cope with difficulties, but it won’t be an easy ride.
You’ll need to learn how to keep in touch, make plans together, and accept the fact that you’re going to miss some important events. Sometimes, your plans will not always become a reality. You’ll get through it if your bond and motivations are really strong.
2. Visa and immigration issues
Let’s say you’re doing great and decide to get married. What’s next? Men who’ve married mail-order brides know that this part may be the hardest. The thing is, a foreign citizen can’t just arrive in the country, marry an American citizen, and stay. The procedure is way more complex.
Let’s say an American man meets a foreign woman and proposes to her. In this case, they’ll need to apply for a K-1 visa, pay around $1,000, and wait for 6+ months for it to be approved.
Things don’t always go smoothly, which is usually stressful for both partners, making the waiting period even harder.
3. Cultural shock & language barriers
There are many mixed couples where partners say that their differences make them and their bond even stronger—that’s about that unique connection and multiple topics for conversations that we’ve discussed before. Partners learn from each other, and that’s amazing.
However, you shouldn’t think that it will always be easy; this will work only if both partners are ready to talk to each other. You won’t be able to avoid or ignore your cultural differences, but you’ll be able to discuss them and compromise.
Sometimes, it will literally be hard to understand each other because of the language barrier. Yes, you’ll need to be patient, and for some people, that’s the hardest part about being in a cross-cultural relationship.
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Tips on how to make your international marriage happy & healthy
There are certain ways to avoid all difficulties and just enjoy the benefits of such relationships. Yes, some effort will be required. If you don’t have a partner yet but are looking to meet someone from overseas, we’d recommend you build your strategy based on the following points:
As you can see, there are recommendations that work not only for international couples. These are the rules that sound simple but are not so easy to follow. They are important for all and just a bit more important for people who are trying to find common ground despite being raised in two different societies.
Pro tip — Editor’s final thoughts
If you haven’t met a partner from another country yet, consider choosing a place where you’ll most likely find a soulmate and, ideally, visit it. There’s no need to stay for a really long time—a few weeks will do.
Try not to spend all your time at a hotel or on the beach. Go to pubs and public events, talk to locals, ask questions about the country, and go to museums. That will help you understand whether you’d like to visit this place many more times in the future.
If it’s not for you, do research online—in many cases, it’s enough to have a basic understanding of what to expect. And remember that, in any case, your success in a relationship will mostly depend on your motivation to make it work.
