The advancement of technology coupled with new and evolving employer attitudes means that for many people, being physically in their workplace is no longer necessary. This has enabled people to carry out their employment duties from home, even if they temporarily relocate that home to a different country.
If this sounds like an adventure, there are several things to consider before deciding to work from abroad. Here are seven best tips for working remotely from another country:
Tip #1: Visa Requirements
In the past, when a worker entered a foreign country, they must obtain a work visa to be employed for pay while residing somewhere other than their home country. But this system was intended for people to immigrate to find work in their new homes.
Working remotely for your current employer is a whole different story. Every country has different requirements regarding what type of visa you need to work remotely, and you must research beforehand.
If you travel to different locations, you’ll find that some countries allow you to continue working for your current employer on a tourist visa. Other countries may require a different type. In some places, a digital nomad visa is an option.
Tip #2: Paying Taxes
Much like visas, every country will have different tax laws, so it’s another area that you must do your research on. Typically, if working remotely, your tax obligations will be to the country you are a permanent resident of, not the one you visit.
However, some countries have taxes based on worldwide income, and you may be responsible for paying taxes to both your home country and the one you are visiting. Checking with an international tax expert is your best bet to ensure you are fully aware of your obligations.
Tip #3: Check with your Employer
One of the first items you need to check off your list when you begin your preparation is to talk with your employer about your plans. They may face challenges when employing team members working abroad, and they may not be willing to let you continue working for them from another country.
Even if they are eager to accommodate you, they may require you to sign a new contract or agreement. When discussing working remotely from another country, you should cover your planned length of stay, your work schedule, and the tools you have or would be required to take to perform your job duties.
Tip #4: Utilize Digital Workplace Software
If you are already working remotely, your employer likely already has digital workplace software. It is advantageous for employers and employees to utilize such tools for remote work.
When working from another country, the benefits increase even more. Digital workplace software allows you to communicate with your colleagues in real time, organize, schedule, participate in team meetings, and collaborate on projects.
Tip #5: Work Asynchronously when Necessary
Depending on where you plan to travel, you may end up in a country in a different time zone than your employer. Asynchronous work means you may work different hours than your team members. It allows you to log on and work when it makes sense.
The downside to asynchronous work is that communication may not always happen promptly. You may need to adjust your schedule occasionally, especially when participating in meetings or projects requiring collaboration.
Tip #6: Stay Connected with your Colleagues
Even though you plan to be in another country, stay connected with the people you work with. If possible, work synchronously for at least an hour a day to maintain a line of communication and effective collaboration. If you don’t need to work directly with any of your team members, try scheduling virtual coffee dates to keep in touch.
Tip #7: Work-Life Balance
If you have decided to become a digital nomad, you’ve likely put a lot of thought into the idea. You have decided because you want to have exciting new experiences and see more of the world.
As such, you certainly don’t want to be tied to your computer and work all the time. As easy as it is when working remotely to spend excessive time on your work life, it’s essential to log off. Put a limit on your working hours to avoid burnout. Be sure to complete your assigned work to your employer’s satisfaction, but don’t forget to make time to get out and explore your new surroundings.
Thanks to technological advancements and a change in workplace expectations, it is possible for many to pick up their home office and travel. If you are looking for a change of scenery but want to keep working, research ahead of time. Working remotely from another country could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
