How to Make Friends Fast When You Don’t Speak the Language Well

Arriving in a new country where you don’t speak the language fluently can feel like stepping into a movie without subtitles. You want to connect. You want to be part of things. But every conversation feels like it moves too fast — or worse, not at all. Still, making friends is possible, even when you’re not confident in your English yet. With the right attitude, some creativity, and small but deliberate efforts, you can build meaningful relationships that make your time here unforgettable.

If you’re looking to feel more at home quickly, one of the best things you can do is learn English as an Australian visitor through informal practice, casual meetups, and community-based experiences that prioritise connection over perfection.

Start With Shared Activities (That Don’t Rely on Talking)

The fastest way to meet new people is to get involved — even if words are hard to come by at first. Shared activities take the pressure off conversation and help friendships grow naturally over time.

Great examples include:

• Joining a local sports team or fitness class: Think group yoga, running clubs, or weekend soccer.
• Volunteering: Whether it’s a community garden, charity event, or food drive, volunteering connects you with like-minded people in a meaningful way.
• Community art or music workshops: These often welcome people of all ages and backgrounds and tend to attract friendly, open-minded folks.

The bonus? You’ll hear more natural, everyday English without the stress of having to lead the conversation.

Let People Know You’re Open

A smile, eye contact, and a friendly wave go a long way — even if your vocabulary is limited. People are far more willing to connect than you might think, especially when you show effort and openness.

Some helpful tips:

• Carry a small notebook or use your phone to jot down or show words
• Learn basic phrases like “I’m still learning English, but I’d love to chat”
• Use body language and gestures confidently

Most Australians are incredibly understanding toward those learning the language. And showing up with a positive attitude often means more than speaking perfectly.

Use Tech to Your Advantage

There’s an app or online group for nearly everything these days — including making friends.

Try these:

• Meetup.com: Search for language exchange meetups, hobby groups, or international communities.
• Tandem or HelloTalk: These apps let you connect with people who want to help you practise English in return for learning your language.
• Facebook community groups: Look for local groups for newcomers, international students, or specific cultural backgrounds.

And don’t forget: most people are just a little nervous, too. If you send a message first, chances are you’ll be met with kindness.

Say Yes to Invitations (Even If You’re Nervous)

If someone invites you to something — a coffee, a party, a study group — say yes. Even if you’re worried your English isn’t good enough. Even if you’re tired. Even if you feel like you won’t understand anything.

Each “yes” is a chance to practise, learn something new, and get a little more comfortable in your new environment.

Try this mindset:

• It’s okay to not understand everything.
• It’s okay to ask questions or clarify.
• It’s okay to just listen sometimes and smile.

People appreciate effort. The more you show up, the easier it gets.

Be Honest — and Keep It Light

One of the quickest ways to break the ice is to acknowledge the language gap with humour and humility. You don’t have to pretend to understand everything. In fact, being real about it can actually help others feel more relaxed too.

You can say:

• “I’m still learning English, but I’m great at smiling and nodding.”
• “If I say something funny, just blame my grammar.”
• “I might need you to slow down a little — thanks for your patience!”

This creates connection, not distance. And most people will happily meet you halfway.

Create Your Own Micro-Community

If you don’t find the social group you’re looking for — make it. It doesn’t have to be big. A small group of people who meet once a week for coffee, walks, or even “language lunches” can make a huge difference.

Ideas to try:

• “Walk and Talk” meetups with other learners or locals
• A weekly dinner where everyone brings food from their culture
• Study support groups for other visitors or students

It’s less about building a big social life quickly, and more about creating consistent, friendly spaces where connection can grow.

Don’t Wait Until You’re Fluent to Connect

One of the biggest mistakes people make is thinking they need perfect English before they can make friends. The truth? Making friends helps you improve faster.

Friendship accelerates learning because:

• You hear real conversations and slang
• You gain confidence through repetition
• You feel emotionally supported, which makes everything easier

Start now, with whatever English you have. Use what you know. Learn as you go.

You don’t have to be fluent to be funny. Or kind. Or memorable. You just have to be willing to show up, try, and stay open to the experience.

Because friendship, at its heart, isn’t built on grammar — it’s built on connection. And that’s a language anyone can speak.