Hey Pedro- the word ex pat is derived from the word patriot. Patriots is what the British called colonists who were traitors to the British crown in colonial US. They were the rebels fighting and responsible for events like the Boston Tea party and revolutionary war. At the time it was not a nice term. The US military adopted the word and turned it into a badge of honor. Expat is historically what service members and their families were called when stationed abroad. Its specific to people still earning USD but living abroad over the years it has morphed to include retirees and digital nomads. The main difference between an Expat and immigrant is what currency they earn their money. If I moved to Mexico and earned MX pesos not US dollars and obtained Mexican citizenship I'd be an immigrant. If I have Mexican residency but earn USD and am required to pay taxes to USA I am an expat. This term was never intended to be racially dividing. In fact the US military is a very diverse group and typically not well paid so it is not a race or financial status symbol as it is perceived by some. I hope this helps.
