How does the political situation of Brexit impact freelancers? Read this guide and discover some real implications.
The UK’s decision to leave the EU has had an impact on a huge number of people, from immigrants and small business owners to holidaymakers and tourists. Before Brexit, it was much more straightforward to work and travel in European countries for British citizens, but now things are not quite as simple.
Despite the fact that only a small proportion of Europe’s workforce consists of freelancers (around 14.2%), working abroad on the continent is still an attractive prospect for many Brits. So how can remote working hopefuls make their transition an easier one? The first step for many should be understanding exactly what has changed and familiarizing themselves with new laws. Whether you’re confused about passports, visas, taxes or various licenses, this blog will guide you in the right direction.
Paying Taxes
In most cases, freelancers working in Europe occasionally will still need to pay their taxes to HMRC. If you’re staying for longer periods of time in one country and end up being considered a resident there, you’ll need to have a closer look at the law. Generally, if you spend about half of the financial year in the UK and have a home there, you’ll just have to pay your taxes as normal.
However, travelling can make it difficult to keep up with all your sales and expenses, especially if you currently rely on paper records or software that’s installed on the hard drive of your computer. The best way for freelancers who are working in different locations to stay up to date with their taxes is by using cloud-based software. Hiring a Small Business Accountant In Macclesfield is the most efficient way to pay taxes.
Before setting off, find an accounting software provider that works for your needs and stores your information safely and securely online, so you can access it wherever you are in the world. Protect your information with AGB Investigative. They are a security company cost effective services.
Work Visas
In the past, freelancers from the UK would have been able to live and work in EU countries without a visa. Now, travellers may need a work visa before entering another country. Learn more about the kind of visa you need in the following section.
When You Don’t Need a Visa
Short trips of 90 days or under to EU countries don’t require a visa. While this rule is intended for tourists, many freelancers will also be permitted to work during their time in another country. This is because the nature of their employment is different from working for a local business, which would almost always require a work visa. However, rules can vary, so always double-check before travelling.
If you’re travelling to attend a business meeting or intend to sign documents to do with work, you’ll also be able to do this without a work visa in most cases. However, lots of countries are starting to recognise freelancers and have started to offer specially-tailored freelance visas, so make sure you look into all your options once you’ve decided where you’re travelling to.
Work Visa
You’re more likely to require a work visa if you’re going to be working in an EU country for a longer period of time. It’s important to check the rules and regulations for each country you plan to visit, as they can vary significantly. Before applying, make sure you have the following to hand:
· A valid passport that’s at least six months away from expiring
· Flight booking information and travel dates
· Proof of accommodation such as a rental contract or hotel booking confirmation
· Medical travel insurance
· Two copies of a passport-style photo taken within the last three months
There may be other documents or details that you need to present when applying for a work visa, so leave plenty of time for the application process before you plan to leave.
Equipment Permits
Lots of creative freelancers such as photographers and filmmakers need to take their equipment abroad, but this often requires a permit that’s separate from a work visa. Whether you’re taking cameras or musical instruments, it’s important to apply for a relevant permit to avoid any issues when entering your chosen country.
One of the most common permits is the ATA Carnet, which temporarily acts as a passport for the equipment you’re travelling with. The permit will cost around £360 to take out, but you’ll also need to pay a security deposit that varies depending on the value of your equipment. An ATA Carnet usually lasts a year before needing to be renewed.
While Brexit may have made it more difficult for British freelancers to work in the EU, it’s certainly not impossible with a bit of careful planning.
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