Independent contracting around the world

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This question is hypothetical.

If I am an independent contractor doing work for a company in my home country while located abroad (working via internet can be very normal without appearing at an office).

In such case, will I need to apply for a tourist visa or for a working visa? Does the answer depend on the visiting country or my home country? Are there any types of legal issues I might need to worry about?






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Can you work abroad as an independent contractor?

Yes, contractors can certainly qualify for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE). However, in general, the nature of contractor employment terms does not allow using the Bona Fide Residence Test. Therefore, civilian contractors working abroad are limited to the Physical Presence Test.

Can I work as a contractor in another country?

U.S. employers cannot just assume they can pay an individual living in another country to perform work for them in that country without establishing an employment relationship. Even where self-employment is found to be the accurate classification, taxes and fees may still be due in other countries.

Do foreign independent contractors pay taxes?

How to approach paying foreign contractors. There is no requirement for U.S. companies to file an IRS 1099 Form to pay a foreign contractor. But as noted above, the company should require the contractor file IRS Form W-8BEN, which formally certifies the worker's foreign status.

How do you contract someone from another country?

How do I hire an employee in another country?
  • Apply for certification from the United States Department of Labor.
  • Interview prospective foreign workers.
  • Apply for a work visa from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
  • Verify the tax laws applicable to your company and the foreign worker.




  • The pros and cons of being an independent contractor




    Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

    Images: Kelly, Ono Kosuki, Tima Miroshnichenko, Tima Miroshnichenko