Although some aspects of remote working have become easier to navigate during this global pandemic (your boss finally approves!), others have become a bit more tricky. With constant border closings and changing rules, the thought of working and living in another country can seem overwhelming. We have therefore listed some do's and dont's to consider when working remotely during Covid.
Be flexible
As most of you have probably experienced first-hand in the past year, these are not the times to make fixed plans way in advance. The situation around the world changes every day, and your favourite destination might be closing its borders in a week from now. Therefore, it is good to keep an open mind and create a list of multiple countries/destinations to work remotely from in case your favourite one drops off. Book your ticket and accommodation just a few weeks in advance, or make sure to include cancellation insurance. If you are abroad already and were hoping to leave but can't, try to make the most out of the situation and move to another part of the island/country/city to enjoy a different scenery.
Check your visa duration
One of the first things to sort when planning to work from abroad is your visa. Most (if not all) visa's come with an end date, and even though you might have fixed ideas of when you'll return home, the current pandemic might not agree with your plans. If you end up getting ‘stuck' in a country, you really want to keep a close eye on your visa's expiration date and act accordingly. This could mean that you'll need to visit your local embassy, pay extra for an extension or exit to a neighbouring country.
Keep an eye on tax regulations
Many countries adhere to the 183-rule, or “6 months - rule”. Meaning that if you spent more than six months in a certain country, you are considered a tax resident for that year. Now, you could easily try to avoid this by staying no longer than 183 days, but Covid might just keep you at a certain destination longer than you had anticipated at first. This doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing, but it does require you to keep an eye out for your country's tax legislation and act accordingly.
Educate yourself on cybersecurity
As a remote worker, you are generally more likely to become a victim of cyberattacks and face the possibility of hackers gaining access to your business account. Without the security measures of an office building in place, cybersecurity is something you need to think about whether you are an employer, independent worker or employee. Some of the first things to consider are updating your software, using a VPN network, learning more about phishing attacks and making sure to NEVER use public wifi networks.
Sort out your health insurance
Now more than ever, you want to have access to proper healthcare wherever you go. Therefore it's important to check how far your current health insurance covers care abroad before you make your move. Unless you are a European citizen and plan to travel within the EU, most long term trips require extra travel insurance with an added healthcare plan. Make sure to have this sorted in advance, and don't forget to extend your health care package when staying longer than anticipated.
Find local news outlets or forums
Each country - and sometimes even region or city - deals with its own set of Covid regulations. As hard enough as it is to keep up with the changes, it's sometimes even impossible to find up to date information through international (English speaking) websites. As you want to adhere to the local rules while working remotely, try to find trustworthy news outlets as soon as you arrive. Local (online) papers are preferred and most up to date, but if the language is an issue, then expat communities can be total lifesavers.
Don't be dependant on facilities and social life
Although plenty of cities have currently re-opened their restaurants and shops, there is a considerable chance they might just lockdown again in less than a few days. When choosing your next destination or the home you are looking to move into, recognize the possibility that you could be stuck inside for a long time. Lively co-living homes, beachfront apartments or private residences that come with an outdoor space are therefore good options to consider to keep from going crazy.
Relax and enjoy
Remote working during Covid-19 can be a bit of a headache but offers some unique advantages at the same time. Many companies are currently willing to let their employees work from abroad, accommodation prices are lower than ever, and the usually crowded hotspots now seem like untouched territory. The pandemic might slow you down in your travels, but this is not necessarily a bad thing. Now is the time to enjoy your surroundings, take it slow and get to know the country you're in. You might just stay forever.
