Table of Contents
International contractors are seasoned professionals who take on work for a specific project or a limited term. While their expertise typically commands higher rates, they can still be cost-effective due to the reduced employer costs.
Working with independent contractors gives businesses access to global talent, in an alternative to hiring full-time employees. However, navigating various legal and payment considerations remotely can be tricky.
Unlike full-time employees, international contractors usually have the flexibility to set their schedules. They often have the freedom to contract with multiple companies simultaneously.
Among the benefits of the freelancing workstyle, contractors researched by the Freelancer Study 2024 prioritized independence, time management, remote work, and higher income.
Additionally, 36% of freelancers say they have no interest in taking a permanent position. So, it’s important to seize the opportunity of collaborating with such professionals, as the number of self-employed individuals has been increasing for years.
Here are six effective considerations to independent contractor hiring, while ensuring compliance and efficiency.
3 ways to hire international contractors
Hiring international contractors involves networking and navigating different platforms.
1) Use freelance platforms
Due to the increase in the freelance business community, plenty of online platforms have been launched to bridge the gap between international contractors and companies.
Freelance platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal make it easy to find and hire international contractors directly. These platforms provide a vast talent pool, secure payment systems, and built-in tools for project management and communication.
Tip: Be aware of the platform fees and choose a platform that aligns with the level of expertise you need. Also, remember you’ll still be responsible for screening candidates, and negotiating and drawing contracts.
2) Set up direct contact
Similarly to using freelance platforms, many companies also look for international contractors on social media. Websites like LinkedIn offer online groups and communities where you can post your personalized call for freelancers.
This option offers a more direct relationship with contractors, as well as higher flexibility in defining payment terms and lower additional costs compared to platforms.
Tip: Ensure that your contract complies with local laws in the contractor’s country to avoid misclassification risks. Remember to talk about work hours and time zones to plan for asynchronous working.
3) Outsource the recruitment process
There are recruitment process outsourcing companies that work as a third-party organization on behalf of your company and can offer contractor hiring as a service. This takes all the complexities of looking for an international contractor off your hands and lets you focus on your projects.
This collaboration allows you to hire international contractors without needing to register in another country. It simplifies the process and reduces the risk of legal issues.
Tip: Consider using a recruitment process outsourcing company to expand your work team across multiple countries seamlessly. They will offer previous experience and network in specific regions, which can help you find the best candidates.
3 ways to pay international contractors
Paying international contractors involves navigating multiple legal, tax, and payment complexities.
1) Use freelance platforms
If you’ve decided to hire freelancers using a freelance platform, some of them offer premium services that can help you with payment.
For projects with a set scope, you can agree on a fixed price. You’ll deposit the agreed amount into an escrow account, which holds the funds until the freelancer completes the work. For ongoing or flexible projects, you can pay by the hour.
Tip: Many platforms have tools for monitoring and invoice management.
2) Online payment platforms
Online payment platforms like PayPal, Payoneer, and Wise offer a convenient way to pay international contractors. These platforms allow you to send money in different currencies with lower fees and fast transfer times.
If you’re hiring internationally, currency conversion fees may apply. You may also deal with coverage limitations in some countries.
Tip: Choose a platform that offers competitive exchange rates and supports the currencies your contractors use.
3) Outsource payroll management
Payroll outsorcing companies are versed in managing payments to international contractors. These platforms handle everything from currency conversion to tax compliance, making them an ideal solution for businesses with a large or growing international team.
The main benefit of handling payroll to a third-party provider is that they can serve as a one-stop HR collaborator. They can help you find, hire, and manage the payroll of international contractors, which can save you time and resources.
Tip: Use outsourcing services if you need to pay multiple contractors regularly and want to ensure full compliance with local different tax laws.
Conclusion
To maximize the advantages of hiring and paying international contractors, it’s essential to leverage the right platforms, ensure legal compliance, and pick the most suitable payment methods.
Whether you use freelance platforms, establish direct contact or partner with an Employer of Record, each option has its unique advantages and considerations.
Finding international contractors directly can be cost-efficient for companies with experience and an established network. Additionally, freelance platforms offer automized solutions.
On the other hand, outsourcing these processe gives you a dynamic approach, and helps you establish fruitful freelance collaborations more quickly and safely.
Contact us for assistance with international contractors.
