Edited by Emmanuel Tuyisenge
Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, full of new opportunities and experiences. However, it can also come with challenges—especially the feeling of isolation that comes from being far away from family and old friends. Loneliness is common among people who relocate abroad, but it doesn’t have to control your life.
Making friends in a foreign country may feel intimidating at first, but it’s absolutely possible when you know where to start. In this article, we’ll explore five effective and practical ways to build meaningful friendships while living abroad. These tips will not only help you connect with others but also enrich your experience in a new culture.
1️⃣ Join Public Events, Workshops, and Meetups
One of the easiest ways to meet new people in a foreign country is by attending events designed for social interaction. Many cities, especially those with international communities, organize:
Workshops and seminars on professional or personal development.
Meetups for language exchange, book clubs, or hiking groups.
Cultural events such as food festivals, art exhibitions, or concerts.
These gatherings are natural spaces where people come to connect, learn, and share experiences. You don’t need to be extremely outgoing—just showing up and participating can open the door to conversations.
👉 Use platforms like Meetup.com or Eventbrite to find activities in your city. Even if you don’t form deep friendships immediately, attending regularly increases your chances of building trust and familiarity with others.
2️⃣ Get Involved in Volunteering Activities
Volunteering is a powerful way to connect with like-minded individuals who share values of compassion, kindness, and service. By contributing to meaningful causes, you not only make a positive difference but also meet people with good hearts.
Examples of volunteering opportunities include:
Helping at local food banks or shelters.
Assisting the elderly or supporting children in educational programs.
Participating in environmental initiatives such as tree planting or community clean-ups.
Volunteering often creates friendships that go beyond superficial interactions because they are built on shared experiences and values.
👉 Search online for NGOs or local charities in your area. Many international organizations also welcome volunteers, making it easier for newcomers to get involved.
3️⃣ Use Friendship and Language Exchange Apps
Technology has made it easier than ever to meet people, even in a new country. Several apps and platforms are specifically designed to connect people who want to expand their social circles.
Bumble BFF – a friend-making feature of the dating app Bumble.
HelloTalk or Tandem – apps that connect people for language exchange, which is an excellent way to learn the local language while making friends.
Internations.org – a platform that brings together expats from all over the world through events and communities.
These digital tools are especially useful if you’re shy or don’t know where to start in real life. Online conversations can later turn into genuine face-to-face friendships.
👉 Always practice safety when meeting new people from apps. Choose public spaces for first meetings and trust your instincts.
4️⃣ Spend Time in Social Public Spaces
Sometimes making friends doesn’t require special apps or events—just being present in places where people gather can make a difference.
Great places to meet new people include:
Cafés and coffee shops – Strike up small conversations with regular visitors or baristas.
Gyms and fitness clubs – Exercise often leads to casual chats that can grow into friendships.
Parks and libraries – Perfect for relaxed and approachable conversations.
Cultural spaces like museums or art galleries.
The goal isn’t to force connections but to show up consistently. When people see you regularly, they naturally become more comfortable approaching you.
👉 Challenge Yourself: Aim to introduce yourself to one new person each week. A simple “Hello, I’m new here” can break the ice.
5️⃣ Find Cultural or Language Communities from Your Home Country
Living abroad doesn’t mean you must completely detach from your roots. In fact, finding people who share your culture, traditions, or language can provide comfort and familiarity.
Most countries have associations or groups for foreigners:
Rwandan or Congolese communities abroad.
African student associations at universities.
Religious or cultural organizations that bring people together.
These groups can help you adapt faster, give you guidance, and also introduce you to a wider circle of friends—including locals who are curious about your culture.
👉 Check social media platforms like Facebook groups for expat or cultural communities in your city.
🌟 Additional Tips for Building Friendships Abroad
Be open-minded: Embrace cultural differences instead of fearing them.
Learn the local language: Even a few basic phrases can make locals appreciate your effort.
Be consistent: Real friendships take time—don’t give up if it doesn’t happen instantly.
Stay positive: People are more likely to connect with you when you radiate warmth and positivity.
Making new friends in a foreign country may feel challenging at first, but it becomes easier once you take proactive steps. By joining events, volunteering, using apps, spending time in public spaces, and connecting with cultural communities, you open yourself to meaningful relationships that can last a lifetime.
Remember: friendships abroad don’t just make your stay enjoyable—they also help you grow, learn, and create unforgettable memories.
So, step out with confidence, start small conversations, and let every interaction be an opportunity to build a new bond.
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