I honestly believe that if you are self-employed, so if you call yourself a “freelancer” or “contractor” or the like, this is the easiest and best way to move abroad. The barrier to entry is low. Let’s talk through some of the benefits of moving to Europe as a freelancer, self-employed, contractor shall we? 

Difference between being a freelancer, contractor, self-employed and entrepreneur

Freelancer, contractor, self-employed, and entrepreneur are terms often used to describe individuals who work independently or run their own businesses. However, they have distinct differences in terms of their roles, work arrangements, and business goals: 

Freelancer:

• A freelancer is an individual who offers their services or skills on a project-by-project basis. They are typically hired by clients or companies for specific tasks or assignments.
• Freelancers have a high degree of flexibility in choosing their projects, clients, and work hours.
• They often work remotely and may have multiple clients simultaneously.
• Freelancers are responsible for managing their own taxes, invoicing, and finding new clients.

Contractor:

• A contractor is similar to a freelancer but is often associated with longer-term engagements or contracts. Contractors may work for a specific client on a project or provide ongoing services for an extended period.
• They might work on-site at the client’s location or remotely, depending on the nature of the work.
• Contractors may have more stability in their income and client relationships compared to freelancers.
• Like freelancers, contractors are typically responsible for their own business operations and taxes.

Self-Employed:

• Being self-employed means you are your own boss and operate your own business, which can take various forms, such as sole proprietorship, LLC, or partnership.
• Self-employed individuals can offer products or services and have control over their business decisions and operations.
• They may work alone or employ others, depending on the scale of their business.
• Self-employed individuals are responsible for all aspects of their business, including finances, taxes, and compliance with local regulations.

Entrepreneur:

• An entrepreneur is someone who creates and operates a business with the goal of achieving significant growth, often involving innovation, scalability, and the creation of value.
• Entrepreneurs are typically focused on building and scaling their own companies, which may involve developing new products, securing funding, and expanding into new markets.
• They may hire employees, seek investment, and take on more significant financial risks compared to freelancers, contractors, or self-employed individuals.
• The primary aim of an entrepreneur is often to create and grow a sustainable business.

In summary, while these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they refer to different working arrangements and business orientations:

• “Freelancer” and “contractor” typically work on a project basis and may or may not run their own businesses.
• “Self-employed” individuals operate their own businesses, which can vary in scale and complexity.
• “Entrepreneurs” are business owners focused on building and growing their companies, often with an emphasis on innovation and expansion.

Why moving abroad as self-employed is the BEST

Moving to Europe as a self-employed individual can offer several benefits, although the specific advantages can vary depending on the country within Europe that you’re moving to. Here are some potential benefits of moving to Europe as a self-employed individual:

Access to Diverse Markets

Europe is a diverse continent with a wide range of markets, industries, and consumer bases. Moving to Europe can provide you with access to these markets and potentially increase your client base.

Cultural and Personal Enrichment

Living and working in Europe can be a culturally enriching experience. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures, languages, and traditions, which can broaden your horizons and personal growth.

Professional Networking

Europe offers numerous opportunities for networking with professionals in your field. You can attend industry events, join local business associations, and connect with potential clients and collaborators.

Quality of Life

Many European countries are known for their high quality of life. They often have well-developed healthcare systems, good education options, and social benefits that can enhance your overall well-being.

Work-Life Balance

Some European countries prioritize work-life balance, which can lead to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. This can be particularly appealing if you’re looking to reduce stress and improve your overall quality of life.

Access to Talented Workforce

If your business grows and you need to hire employees, Europe offers access to a skilled and educated workforce. Many countries have strong educational systems that produce well-qualified professionals.

Travel Opportunities

Europe’s geographic proximity to other countries and regions makes it easier to explore and travel to neighboring countries, which can be a significant perk for leisure and personal travel.

Financial Stability

Some European countries have stable economies and strong financial institutions, which can be beneficial for managing your finances and investments.

Cultural and Recreational Activities

Europe is rich in cultural and recreational activities. You can enjoy a wide range of experiences, from visiting historical sites and museums to exploring natural landscapes and enjoying diverse cuisines.

Entrepreneurial Support

Several European countries offer programs and incentives to support entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals, including grants, tax breaks, and business development resources.

Global Perspective

Living and working in Europe can provide you with a global perspective, as it’s a hub for international business and collaboration. This can be valuable if you have aspirations to work with clients or partners from around the world. 

How to move abroad as self-employed

Moving from the United States to Europe as a freelancer involves several steps and considerations. Here’s a general outline of what you’ll need to do to make this transition:

1. Visa and Immigration Requirements:

Research the visa and immigration requirements for the specific European country you plan to move to. Requirements can vary significantly from one country to another.

Determine the type of visa that suits your situation. Some countries offer freelance or self-employment visas, while others may require you to set up a business entity.

2. Business Structure:

Depending on the country, you may need to establish a legal business entity or register as self-employed. The specific requirements will vary, so consult with local authorities or a legal advisor.

3. Financial Planning:

Assess your financial situation and create a budget. Moving abroad can be costly, and you’ll need to cover expenses such as visas, accommodation, health insurance, and daily living costs.

Open a bank account in the country you plan to move to, as this will make it easier to manage your finances locally.

4. Healthcare:

Research the healthcare system in your destination country. You may need to obtain health insurance or register for a national healthcare system, depending on the country’s requirements.

5. Taxation:

Understand the tax implications of your move. You may be subject to both U.S. and European taxes. Consult with a tax professional who specializes in international tax matters to ensure compliance.

6. Legal and Regulatory Compliance:

Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations that apply to freelancers, including any registration or reporting requirements. This may include obtaining a tax identification number (TIN) or business licenses.

7. Housing and Accommodation:

Research and secure housing in your new location. Consider factors like proximity to your clients, cost of living, and local amenities.

8. Language and Cultural Adaptation:

Depending on your destination, you may need to learn a new language or improve your language skills to communicate effectively with clients and navigate daily life.

10. Networking and Local Contacts:

Start building a professional network in your new location. Attend local industry events, join professional associations, and connect with other freelancers or entrepreneurs.

11. Travel and Logistics:

Plan the logistics of your move, including booking flights, shipping belongings, and arranging temporary accommodation if needed.

12. Legal and Financial Advisors:

Consider consulting with legal and financial advisors who specialize in international moves and freelancing to ensure you’re meeting all legal and financial obligations.

13. Backup Plan:

Have a backup plan in case things do not go as smoothly as expected. Financial reserves and contingency plans can provide peace of mind during the transition.

Which countries have great self-employed visa options in Europe

If you’re a freelancer, contractor, entrepreneur, self-employed or however else you categorize yourself as an online business person, I’ve put together a list of the best visas to get to move to Europe. You can get the list here.