Green Flags for a Relationship—Expat Edition

relationships 09-12-2025

Here are some signs you’re dating someone real, grounded, and not trying to turn you into an ATM.

1. They NEVER Ask for Money Early (or At All)

A huge, shining green flag. Good partners:

If you offer to help later on, they still hesitate. This is normal. This is healthy.

2. They Have a Real Job or Purpose

They don’t need to be rich — they just need direction. Green flags:

Their ambition is greater than income.

3. Their Life Is Consistent (No Dramatic Rollercoaster)

No weekly emergencies, no dying relatives every month, no bizarre drama arcs.

A stable life is a good sign:

Stable people = stable relationships.

4. They Communicate Clearly and Calmly

Real partners:

They talk like adults — not like someone running 3 foreigner relationships at once.

5. They’re Proud to Be Seen With You (No Hiding)

They don’t avoid:

A green-flag partner isn’t hiding you from someone else.

6. They Respect Your Boundaries

Massive green flag. They respect:

Healthy people don’t rush or pressure you.

7. They’re Open About Their Life

They’re not secretive.

They tell you:

Open, honest, grounded.

8. They Ask About YOU (Not Just What You Can Provide)

Green-flag partners are curious about:

They care about you, not your economic output.

9. They Offer to Pay (Even If You Decline)

This is a big one. Good Filipinas/Filipinos:

It’s the intention that matters.

10. Their Family Isn’t Immediately Asking For Things

A good family:

A respectful family is a good thing.

11. They Take Things Slowly

Healthy people prefer:

Scammers rush. Good partners invest time.

12. They Keep Their Word

Small things:

Consistency is a better predictor of loyalty than “I love you.”

13. They Show Genuine Care Without Expecting Anything

Examples:

These don’t cost money. That’s why they’re real.

14. They Don’t Use You as a Ticket to a Better Life

They don’t:

They’re with you for you, not your geography.

15. You Feel Peace, Not Confusion

The biggest green flag:

If someone brings peace into your life, don’t ignore it.

Thinking of Moving to the Philippines? Get Reliable Guidance.

Online communities are helpful for general questions. For anything important, you still need accurate, professional, and updated information. E636 Expat Services helps foreigners with:

If you want to move with confidence instead of relying on random comments online, we can guide you every step of the way.

Book a consultation with E636 and start your journey the right way.

Photo by Brittani Burns on Unsplash

Author's photo

E636 Team

Expert guidance and practical solutions for your new life in the Philippines.
Founded by an American expat living there since 2019. Get in touch →

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