Accounting for stock options requires measuring compensation based on the “fair value” of the stock options in on the date granted. This amount is recorded as compensation expense deducted on the period starting with the date the options are granted ending when the options vest and can be exercised.
The short answer is yes. However, you have to ensure that your offering is compliant with all the relevant regulations in both your and your contractor's country. In some regions, for instance, your contractor may be eligible to receive non-qualifying stock options, but your contractors in other countries may not.
Between these two main types of stock options, NSO and ISO, you want to know which one to use for your startup's requirements. Some important distinctions between NSO and ISO: NSO may be granted to employees and non-employees (advisors, consultants, board members), whereas ISOs can only be granted to employees.
Private limited companies especially companies in early stages of business or startups typically like to grant employee stock options (ESOPs) to part time employees, advisors, mentors, consultants and co-founders.
The short answer is yes. However, you have to ensure that your offering is compliant with all the relevant regulations in both your and your contractor's country.