As a digital nomad, one of the perks of the job is being able to travel the world, working as you go. But there’s still plenty to think about before you’re ready to start freelancing internationally…
Before taking your freelancing career global, there are things you need to consider to make sure you’re set up properly. After all, you don’t want to get yourself into hot water (unless you’re checking out any natural geysers!)
Here are our best tips for getting your international freelance career off the ground…
Check the local working permits
Make sure you’re not contravening any crucial employment laws when you’re travelling. Always check online first for information on working permits, and make sure you apply in time to travel. You may need to plan ahead by several months to get your relevant permit.
Make sure you’ve got everything you need
When you’re on the move, you might not have your normal network of support. Check that you’ve got the relevant paperwork, technology and useful numbers that you’ll need to travel stress-free. It’s a good idea to keep important contacts – such as your local Embassy – in both digital and paper form so you’re not caught out.
Know your time zones
If you’re working for international clients, you might find yourself caught out by time zones. Make sure that if you’re scheduling calls or setting deadlines, you’re sure of your client’s working times – you don’t want to promise something you can’t deliver, or organise a meeting for the middle of the night.
Monitor your pay
When working away from your native country, you might find yourself caught out by financial issues. If you’re being paid in one currency, but it’s being converted to your home denomination, you might find yourself losing out with transfer and conversion fees. Make sure when asking for pay, you’re covering any extra costs you may incur just for receiving your salary.
Familiarise yourself with tax law
Caught up in the whirlwind of travel, you might find yourself on the wrong side of tax law if you’ve not planned ahead. Even though you might be paying income tax in your home country, you might incur further taxes in any new location you’re calling home, even temporarily. It’s best to check with a tax professional to see if you need to worry about taxes in more than one place – no one wants to pay twice!
Posted by The Secret Businessman
Images courtesy of Press Association