Checklist for starting a remote activity

Temática

There are many considerations when it comes to teleworking, so in this article we have compiled a list of issues to take into account for companies, freelancers and employees who wish to start working remotely:

1. Internal organisation

  • Consider whether it is possible to carry out and organise remote work and under what conditions.
  • Analyse pros and cons for company and employee.
  • Establish an agreement between both parties setting out the working conditions.
  • Organise the means and equipment necessary for the development of the activity.
  • Estimate the costs of carrying out a remote activity.

2. Organisation at tax level

  • Worker: determine his/her tax residence and, if necessary, obtain a visa or residence permit.
  • Company: determine its presence in the country (temporary establishment, permanent establishment, headquarters, etc.).
  • Determine whether it is a temporary posting of a worker or a change of permanent location.
  • Know that there is a bilateral agreement between both countries (that of the company and that of the worker).
  • To know the regulations of the country where the worker is going to be and the European regulations.
  • Find out whether or not there is specific legislation for remote working.
  • Comply with tax obligations in the country where the activity is carried out.

3. Organisation at Social Security level

  • To be aware of the existence of bilateral Social Security agreements.
  • Knowledge of the regulations on occupational risk prevention.
  • To know the Social Security regulations of the country where the worker is going to stay.
  • To know the collective agreements applicable to the worker and their conditions.
  • Find out whether or not there is specific legislation for remote work.
  • If necessary, establish the appropriate measures to guarantee the worker's health care (private insurance, public health care).
  • Comply with social security obligations in the country where the activity is carried out.

4. Other considerations

  • It is also recommended to establish logistical arrangements. For example, when the worker must go to the company's offices, how far in advance he/she must know, who will bear the travel costs.
  • It is recommended to establish protocols for the protection of information at work and to train employees in this area so that they do not put the security of information at risk.