US company hiring a foreign independent contractor living abroad. The US company doesn't need to report the payments they made to the foreign independent contractor to the IRS if they are not US-sourced income. The company also doesn't need to withhold any tax.
Foreign independent contractors must submit IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E to certify their foreign status and claim any applicable tax treaty benefits. The US company may also need to file Form 1099-NEC if certain conditions are met, though this is more common for domestic contractors.
Hiring international independent contractors can be a simple solution for meeting your global staffing needs, but only if you thoroughly understand how to work with contractors in their host country in order to minimize the risk of employee misclassification.
Working overseas as a contractor offers a multitude of benefits beyond just financial compensation. Contractors have the opportunity to explore new cultures, meet people from different backgrounds, and savor exotic cuisines.
It is possible to become a contractor in the UK as a foreigner; however, doing so is complicated. People have been considering options abroad for work, travel, and living more in recent years, so it is not surprising that there has also been a rise in overseas contracting.
Companies must ensure that foreign independent contractors comply with immigration laws by obtaining the necessary work permits and visas. It is important to research and understand the regulations specific to the contractor's home country and the country where the work will be performed.
In the United Kingdom, a P60 (End of Year Certificate) is a statement issued to taxpayers at the end of a tax year.
Conversely, if the independent contractor is not a US person and did not perform any of their services within the US, you will not be required to issue Form 1099. Instead, the foreign contractor will have to complete and file Form W-8BEN.
IR35. IR35 is the HMRC's 2000 tax initiative that aims to counteract tax avoidance among freelancers and contractors who deliver services to companies through an intermediary, often referred to as a Personal Service Company (PSC). It is equivalent to the IRS 1099 NEC form.