Be prepared
So you want to be a freelancer, and you know which country you'd like to work in. Now what? The first thing to look into is whether you will need a visa to live and work there. If you'll need a visa, bear in mind that the application process can take a few months before you travel, so do your research in advance by calling the relevant consulate for advice or thoroughly reading the relevant sections of its website. Of course, no-one enjoys administration, but the more organised you are from the outset, the quicker you'll be set up and legally earning in your chosen country.
Let's talk visas
Yes, getting the correct visa can be daunting, but in the age of the digital nomad there is increasingly good news for international freelancers. Many countries are recognising the need for flexibility when it comes to the norm that one must have a job offer with a company in the country in order to acquire a visa. In response to a changing workscape we are seeing a rise in the number of available Freelance Visas or Self-Employed Visas in countries around the world.
It goes without saying that openness to freelancers and the infrastructure to help them establish themselves changes from country to country. Dubai occupies one end of the spectrum, having “economic free zones” in which freelancers can work without even paying income tax. On the other hand, many countries have a more rigorous system in place that is nevertheless increasingly accessible. In the EU, many popular countries for freelancers offer their own type of freelance visa available for example, while equivalent options also exist in countries including Canada, Germany, Australia, Mexico and many more.
Note that some countries - including the Netherlands and Canada - run a points-based system in order to acquire a self-employed visa. This means that you will need to be able to prove demonstrable experience and expertise in your chosen freelance activities in order for the visa to be granted.
What about a Working Holiday Visa?
If you're thinking of staying for 12 months or fewer and are younger than 31, you might consider looking into a Working Holiday Visa in your chosen country, as opposed to a Residency Permit for those looking to make a permanent move. Note that in the UK, you are forbidden to work on a tourist visa. To find out more, visit the website of the relevant authority of your chosen country to determine your options and find out what paperwork you will need to submit.
So I've got the right visa..now what?
Once you are resident in your new country, you will need to register yourself as a freelance worker with the relevant administrative body in your chosen country in order to gain a business license. Many of your potential clients will require details of your self-employed status in order to accept and pay invoices, for example, and using this status you will be able to declare your earnings and pay any relevant contributions - such as Social Security, and Income Tax. Bear in mind that in order to register as self-employed you may well need a fixed address and a local bank account.
What about taxes?
As they say, there are two things you can't avoid in life: Death and Taxes. I'm afraid the same is true for the international freelancer, and if you're planning to stay more than 6 months in one spot you will probably need to file a tax report in your chosen country having already declared yourself as a freelancer - this applies even if the majority of your income is from abroad.
The best way to negotiate a foreign tax system is to reach out to a resident accountant who can help you more easily navigate what can be a complicated process. They will also be able to advise you as to where you might be able to claim deductions such as travel or meal expenses. Remember you will need to comply with tax rules in both your home country and your new home, so the advice of someone already established in the freelancing world or an official accountant will be invaluable when you're starting out.
If your budget doesn't stretch to an accountant, then hit the internet for the many expat forums and blog posts dedicated to the subject.
Consider going back to school
Why not earn and learn at the same time? Gaining a Student Visa can be a very practical way to live and work in another country, while also enriching your academic or professional life. In the EU for example, the cost and quality of education is extremely attractive for all ages, and many courses are taught in English.
Joining the local freelance community
The good news is that the rise of the digital nomad means there's probably a readymade network of freelancers already plugged into your chosen destination - all you have to do is find them. You might look at MeetUp for groups and events relevant to your area of expertise, get your LinkedIn profile up to date and reach out online, join Facebook groups for expats in your new country, or tap into the coworking spaces in your new location to connect with start-ups and freelance professionals would could point you in the right direction.
A great resource for information based on your specific circumstances, why not check out wherecani.live to find a wealth of details about countries most open to your situation, and the immigration rules that will apply.
