15 answers
Angy
Student
Milan, Lombardy, Italy
7
Questions
Asked
3846 views
Do US companies hire EU remote workers?
I’ve been scrolling Reddit a lot today and it’s really taking a toll on my mental health, I am a 18 years old European, and I am very proficient with English, I have good skills, portfolio and certifications on several fields, such as: SEO, social media management PPC(all the other Digital marketing field basically) business analysis and SQL. I also have a grasp of Sales and I am familiar with lots of tools in those areas.
Scrolling on Reddit I basically saw how redditors tend to think that US companies that hire EU employees remotely are very rare and usually underpay them. I don’t know if that true or just BS that comes out of Reddit.
I really need those jobs so I would like to get one, for at least 50k a year(I mean that would be great).
I was also looking maybe at a Business development rapeenstative, I would be really good at sales, in particular Software/tech sales.
I have to land a job 6/9 months from now to be optimal(I am still in high school, but I am 18).
Can you tell me if this is feasible or it’s just a pipe dream? Is Reddit right about this or just pessimistic, as always?
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14 answers
Trisha Borme
Talent Acquisition - Hiring
33
Answers
North Kingstown, Rhode Island
Updated
Trisha’s Answer
Hi I have an employee who moved to the EU. We had to do Visa work so she could work out of a EU company. If a US company has an entity in your country they can hire there quite easily. Sometimes people work through a contract company that has an entity in their country. Immigration is rather complex so it's not so easy outside of the EU where things can be a bit easier. I hope that helps a bit.
Well I am in EU, I was just looking to know if there were companies(or startups who I’ve seen hire a lot from outside of the US) in the US that would hire me for a BDR job, even if they pay me less, if I manage to get a 50k compensation it would be great for me, anyways probably it would go as a 1099 contractor and I’ll have to do my own taxes and I am fine with it, thanks for the reply anyways
Angy
Z .
Corporate
8
Answers
United States
Updated
Z’s Answer
Hi Angy,
It's incredible that you've already built so many skills and are thinking about the best next steps to use them. Certain U.S. companies do hire in the EU. Although the pay is lower, it's most often to adjust for the lower cost of living rather than to under pay employees. Best tips in terms of where to look: recognizable global companies, that way you're focusing your search on reputable companies who are more likely to be hiring in the EU region. Most companies have a career page directly on their site (typically on the bottom of the page). You should be able to filter by location and see all the available roles and narrow it down to something you think you'd enjoy doing.
Good luck and don't mind the folks on reddit!
It's incredible that you've already built so many skills and are thinking about the best next steps to use them. Certain U.S. companies do hire in the EU. Although the pay is lower, it's most often to adjust for the lower cost of living rather than to under pay employees. Best tips in terms of where to look: recognizable global companies, that way you're focusing your search on reputable companies who are more likely to be hiring in the EU region. Most companies have a career page directly on their site (typically on the bottom of the page). You should be able to filter by location and see all the available roles and narrow it down to something you think you'd enjoy doing.
Good luck and don't mind the folks on reddit!
Mario Ramirez
Leader, Customer Delivery
15
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Mario’s Answer
Hi Angy,
As many have shared with you, the answer is a resounding YES-companies in the EU and around the world do hire remote workers. With the new ways of working, whether hybrid, remote, or 100% in-office, it can be a bit challenging. However, there are always opportunities for roles that allow 100% remote work.
When you're searching for these positions, keep in mind that the benefits might differ slightly from in-office roles, but there's always a path to finding and securing your dream job.
I wish you tremendous success on your journey. You've got this!
Best wishes,
Mario R
As many have shared with you, the answer is a resounding YES-companies in the EU and around the world do hire remote workers. With the new ways of working, whether hybrid, remote, or 100% in-office, it can be a bit challenging. However, there are always opportunities for roles that allow 100% remote work.
When you're searching for these positions, keep in mind that the benefits might differ slightly from in-office roles, but there's always a path to finding and securing your dream job.
I wish you tremendous success on your journey. You've got this!
Best wishes,
Mario R
Dr. Kelly Desso
Protective Services
256
Answers
Somers, Connecticut
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
While I agree that remote work opens the option for global outsourcing, it does not mean that everyone will be a location that businesses are targeting. In the last two years, I've seen more return-to-office mandates than remote positions posted.
Look for large global companies. The one I work for is a worldwide company, but it has an HQ in the USA. As a result, there is always a manager in "The Americas," "Europe," "Asia," and "Africa" that reports back to the USA. This means we have a lot of interactions with people in branches all over! I will say, though, that these people are almost always onsite or traveling as part of their assignments. When looking for remote, they've moved many of these positions to unaffiliated contractors, which can be outsourced to a company that provides similar services at a much cheaper pay/tax/benefit rate.
Most large places have a global mobility specialist in their HR team (if it's internal). This person will almost always be able to tell you where the employees are being assigned, what is open in other countries, and what the trends are.
Look for large global companies. The one I work for is a worldwide company, but it has an HQ in the USA. As a result, there is always a manager in "The Americas," "Europe," "Asia," and "Africa" that reports back to the USA. This means we have a lot of interactions with people in branches all over! I will say, though, that these people are almost always onsite or traveling as part of their assignments. When looking for remote, they've moved many of these positions to unaffiliated contractors, which can be outsourced to a company that provides similar services at a much cheaper pay/tax/benefit rate.
Most large places have a global mobility specialist in their HR team (if it's internal). This person will almost always be able to tell you where the employees are being assigned, what is open in other countries, and what the trends are.
Sahida Khatun
Software Consultant and Analyst
99
Answers
Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Updated
Sahida’s Answer
It’s great that you’re already thinking ahead and building a strong foundation in digital marketing, business analysis, and sales. Let’s break down the feasibility of your goal and address some of the concerns:
Do US companies hire EU remote workers?
Yes, US companies do hire EU remote workers, but it depends on the company's structure, policies, and needs. Many companies have embraced remote work globally, especially after the pandemic. However, there are a few considerations:
Legal & Tax Implications: US companies may prefer hiring through agencies or as contractors because directly employing someone in another country can involve complex legal and tax implications.
Payment Rates: While some companies may underpay international contractors, others value skills and are willing to pay competitive rates, especially if you can demonstrate your expertise and impact.
Your Skills and Experience
You’ve built an impressive portfolio for someone still in high school. Your skills in:
SEO
Social Media Management
PPC
Business Analysis
SQL
Sales and familiarity with tools
...are highly in demand. These are solid credentials for roles like:
Digital Marketing Specialist
Business Development Representative (BDR)
Sales Development Representative (SDR)
Junior Business Analyst
If you strengthen your certifications and focus your expertise, these roles are attainable.
Realistic Salary Expectations
For remote workers in entry-level roles, $50k/year is achievable but might be on the higher end for someone just starting out. US-based entry-level marketing or BDR roles typically offer $40k-$60k/year, depending on the company.
Tech and software sales, especially for enterprise products, can pay more, even in entry-level roles, but may require strong sales experience.
Steps to Land the Job
Polish Your Portfolio:
Showcase real projects, case studies, and quantifiable results.
Build a professional LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills and certifications.
Certifications:
Add recognized certifications in your fields (Google Analytics, HubSpot, SQL certifications, etc.).
Look into sales certifications like Salesforce Sales Representative if you're eyeing tech sales.
Freelancing for Experience:
Consider starting on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to gain real-world experience and earn testimonials.
These gigs can also help you build connections with US clients.
Target Companies:
Research US companies with a history of hiring international remote workers (check Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and AngelList).
Focus on startups or tech firms that embrace global hiring.
Networking:
Join professional groups on LinkedIn and attend virtual networking events.
Reach out to professionals in your desired field and seek informational interviews.
Tailored Applications:
Craft personalized resumes and cover letters highlighting how you can deliver results remotely.
Emphasize skills that make remote work effective, like communication, independence, and collaboration tools.
Reddit’s Pessimism
Reddit can often reflect extremes—either unrealistic optimism or unwarranted negativity. While it's true that some companies underpay remote workers or hesitate to hire internationally, your skillset and determination can set you apart. Focus on actionable steps rather than general opinions.
Your Timeline
Your goal of landing a remote job in 6-9 months is feasible if you:
Continue building your portfolio.
Gain freelancing experience or internships.
Tailor your search to companies open to remote international hiring.
Do US companies hire EU remote workers?
Yes, US companies do hire EU remote workers, but it depends on the company's structure, policies, and needs. Many companies have embraced remote work globally, especially after the pandemic. However, there are a few considerations:
Legal & Tax Implications: US companies may prefer hiring through agencies or as contractors because directly employing someone in another country can involve complex legal and tax implications.
Payment Rates: While some companies may underpay international contractors, others value skills and are willing to pay competitive rates, especially if you can demonstrate your expertise and impact.
Your Skills and Experience
You’ve built an impressive portfolio for someone still in high school. Your skills in:
SEO
Social Media Management
PPC
Business Analysis
SQL
Sales and familiarity with tools
...are highly in demand. These are solid credentials for roles like:
Digital Marketing Specialist
Business Development Representative (BDR)
Sales Development Representative (SDR)
Junior Business Analyst
If you strengthen your certifications and focus your expertise, these roles are attainable.
Realistic Salary Expectations
For remote workers in entry-level roles, $50k/year is achievable but might be on the higher end for someone just starting out. US-based entry-level marketing or BDR roles typically offer $40k-$60k/year, depending on the company.
Tech and software sales, especially for enterprise products, can pay more, even in entry-level roles, but may require strong sales experience.
Steps to Land the Job
Polish Your Portfolio:
Showcase real projects, case studies, and quantifiable results.
Build a professional LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills and certifications.
Certifications:
Add recognized certifications in your fields (Google Analytics, HubSpot, SQL certifications, etc.).
Look into sales certifications like Salesforce Sales Representative if you're eyeing tech sales.
Freelancing for Experience:
Consider starting on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to gain real-world experience and earn testimonials.
These gigs can also help you build connections with US clients.
Target Companies:
Research US companies with a history of hiring international remote workers (check Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and AngelList).
Focus on startups or tech firms that embrace global hiring.
Networking:
Join professional groups on LinkedIn and attend virtual networking events.
Reach out to professionals in your desired field and seek informational interviews.
Tailored Applications:
Craft personalized resumes and cover letters highlighting how you can deliver results remotely.
Emphasize skills that make remote work effective, like communication, independence, and collaboration tools.
Reddit’s Pessimism
Reddit can often reflect extremes—either unrealistic optimism or unwarranted negativity. While it's true that some companies underpay remote workers or hesitate to hire internationally, your skillset and determination can set you apart. Focus on actionable steps rather than general opinions.
Your Timeline
Your goal of landing a remote job in 6-9 months is feasible if you:
Continue building your portfolio.
Gain freelancing experience or internships.
Tailor your search to companies open to remote international hiring.
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
452
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
Hi! Landing a US remote job is feasible, especially with your digital marketing and sales skills. While some companies may underpay, many value global talent. Focus on tech startups or international firms. Tailor applications, leverage LinkedIn, and consider freelance platforms like Upwork initially. With dedication, achieving your goal is possible!
T Singh
Product Marketing
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
T’s Answer
Look for global, multinational software companies that have offices in the EU. You'll be able to search for Business Development (or Sales Development) roles, which are quite common and a great way to enter the software business. I started my career as a Business Development Representative and eventually moved into Product Marketing. Good luck!
Hey great, I am happy for you, is this a great career? The pay? The remote work? The flexibility? Did you have a college degree when you landed the role?
Angy
Jared Barnard
Program Manager / (former Regional Support Manager)
10
Answers
Spain
Updated
Jared’s Answer
Trisha's answer seems like the best reply I've seen (and we can see Talent Acquisition is Trisha's area of expertise!).
Yes, they do, but it's usually through a third-party, whether that's a legal entity in the country where you live or through a third-party company who might facilitate a contract role. The legal issue here (and I'm not an attorney so this is not legal advice) is that in order for companies to get foreign employee on payroll they need a local legal entity which can withhold the employee's payroll taxes, social taxes, manage benefits, time off, etc. Every country has different laws around these things so it's a complex issue. Even if you have the right to work in the US (via citizenship or a work visa) if you're not living there it's unlikely that the US company/entity can legally hire you directly if you're not physically present in the US.
Yes, they do, but it's usually through a third-party, whether that's a legal entity in the country where you live or through a third-party company who might facilitate a contract role. The legal issue here (and I'm not an attorney so this is not legal advice) is that in order for companies to get foreign employee on payroll they need a local legal entity which can withhold the employee's payroll taxes, social taxes, manage benefits, time off, etc. Every country has different laws around these things so it's a complex issue. Even if you have the right to work in the US (via citizenship or a work visa) if you're not living there it's unlikely that the US company/entity can legally hire you directly if you're not physically present in the US.
No not hire me as a normal employee, but as a contractor, when I set up my own company, I’ll do my own taxes and so on(the only thing is that taxation would even be better than a normal employee since I can report a loss if I take debt for a real estate investment and not pay any taxes) that I think would be great.
My biggest fear which lead me to create this post is: will I be able to get some company to hire me
Angy
Michelle M.
Actress
2264
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Angy, it's great to see you back here again !
Well, you know, I wouldn't get discouraged just yet. It's really hard to say which employer will hire which employee as there are so many variables as well as things to consider. In general, online employers hire a person who is qualified and can contribute to their company. I admit that employers do want people who have lots of proven experience and sometimes they choose applicants that have an education over applicants that perhaps do not have a college degree. So it's hard to generalize about this because every employer is different.
More than any hearsay, I think the issue stems from the enormous legal guidelines that American employers would have to go by. It's more expensive too because American standard full time hours is a 40 hour week. If you work for an American company, that company would have to pay you more salary for any hours worked over 35 hours a week. It's like that for France, I don't know about Italy. Not only that, Europe has different laws about what can be done with employees personal information. In the U.S., American workers can be let go from their job but Europe has different guidelines that make it less easy for American employers to discharge a European employee. In a way, it's kind of understandable why American employers would not want to have separate rules for one employee when it's easier to just hire someone local or in another state for online work. There is also the expense if phone calls may be needed. In a nutshell, it's easier for American employers to hire American employees. And as you mention, it is very rare that someone still in high school would be hired in the U.S. for a salary of $50,000.00 per year - unless it was an acting job, of course, LOL !(I remember that you are an actor, too.)
Speaking of Acting, have you considered doing some remote acting work ? That actually might be more advantageous at age 18 before college. Look into UGC work. That is User Generated Content which many actors are doing. I did a commercial for an agency in Austin, Texas while I lived 3,000 miles away. The trades have UGC notices - Backstage, Actors Access as well as Linked In sometimes. My advice is to continue to be well-informed and when you find out information, go with it and find what will work for you if it's not what you expected. As my half Milanese half Neapolitan Grandmother used to say, "Calma e sangue freddo.". And you'll be fine.
My previous advice to you about acting and moving to Santa Monica plays into my advice for you now. Until you finish secondary school, keep busy. Don't focus on the things that you're not being able to do, create new opportunities for yourself where you are because you are going to need experience when you get to your new home in the U.S. It's not worth micro-hoping that things can be different. That will only hold you back. You are a very useful person so don't let anything get in the way of your next opportunity, even if it's not your current wish to be fulfilled. Your time will come.
So, keep sending out resumes for local remote work and see what happens. You are an ambitious and smart person so even if things aren't happening right now, you'll see things change if you move forward and do what is possible for you to do.
I wish you all the best !
Well, you know, I wouldn't get discouraged just yet. It's really hard to say which employer will hire which employee as there are so many variables as well as things to consider. In general, online employers hire a person who is qualified and can contribute to their company. I admit that employers do want people who have lots of proven experience and sometimes they choose applicants that have an education over applicants that perhaps do not have a college degree. So it's hard to generalize about this because every employer is different.
More than any hearsay, I think the issue stems from the enormous legal guidelines that American employers would have to go by. It's more expensive too because American standard full time hours is a 40 hour week. If you work for an American company, that company would have to pay you more salary for any hours worked over 35 hours a week. It's like that for France, I don't know about Italy. Not only that, Europe has different laws about what can be done with employees personal information. In the U.S., American workers can be let go from their job but Europe has different guidelines that make it less easy for American employers to discharge a European employee. In a way, it's kind of understandable why American employers would not want to have separate rules for one employee when it's easier to just hire someone local or in another state for online work. There is also the expense if phone calls may be needed. In a nutshell, it's easier for American employers to hire American employees. And as you mention, it is very rare that someone still in high school would be hired in the U.S. for a salary of $50,000.00 per year - unless it was an acting job, of course, LOL !(I remember that you are an actor, too.)
Speaking of Acting, have you considered doing some remote acting work ? That actually might be more advantageous at age 18 before college. Look into UGC work. That is User Generated Content which many actors are doing. I did a commercial for an agency in Austin, Texas while I lived 3,000 miles away. The trades have UGC notices - Backstage, Actors Access as well as Linked In sometimes. My advice is to continue to be well-informed and when you find out information, go with it and find what will work for you if it's not what you expected. As my half Milanese half Neapolitan Grandmother used to say, "Calma e sangue freddo.". And you'll be fine.
My previous advice to you about acting and moving to Santa Monica plays into my advice for you now. Until you finish secondary school, keep busy. Don't focus on the things that you're not being able to do, create new opportunities for yourself where you are because you are going to need experience when you get to your new home in the U.S. It's not worth micro-hoping that things can be different. That will only hold you back. You are a very useful person so don't let anything get in the way of your next opportunity, even if it's not your current wish to be fulfilled. Your time will come.
So, keep sending out resumes for local remote work and see what happens. You are an ambitious and smart person so even if things aren't happening right now, you'll see things change if you move forward and do what is possible for you to do.
I wish you all the best !
Excellent point of view 😃 congratulations on the advice you provide.
ARIADNA FLORES
Thank you for your kind words, Ariadna Flores ! My aim is to focus on the best information and advice for students so they can choose the best path for themselves for their future. It's the best type of "giving back" I can think of giving. Have an awesome day, Ariadna !
Michelle M.
Laura Turkienicz
Consultant
55
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Yes, many U.S. companies hire remote workers from the EU. The rise of remote work has made it easier for companies to access a global talent pool.
Ethan Huang
global real estate strategy
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Ethan’s Answer
Hi Angy, yes! US companies (US software companies included) very much do hire in the EU. Large multinational companies do proactively look for BDR hires who have familiarity with cultural norms and regional dynamics. On the topic of pay, it does vary from company to company - however, in a sales role, much of the pay may be performance based (commission dependent on how many customers you bring in/retain). Hope this helps!
Emily Park
Site Acquisition Manager
5
Answers
Singapore
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hi Angy,
I think it is great that you have specific goals for your career!
My suggestion is to keep an eye on Job Descriptions of similar roles that you are looking for.
If you already know what you are looking for, you can start searching Job Descriptions by using keywords (i.e. remote, SQL or Sales etc.).
Some companies give priority to local people but there should be some positions giving location flexibility.
Good luck!
I think it is great that you have specific goals for your career!
My suggestion is to keep an eye on Job Descriptions of similar roles that you are looking for.
If you already know what you are looking for, you can start searching Job Descriptions by using keywords (i.e. remote, SQL or Sales etc.).
Some companies give priority to local people but there should be some positions giving location flexibility.
Good luck!
Keith Stewart
Solutions Consultant, Technical Writer
2
Answers
Marco de Canaveses, Portugal
Updated
Keith’s Answer
Angy:
Speaking from personal experience, yes, some US companies hire remote workers from the EU. My experience is that you may have a better chance if you live in a country where the US company has an office or already has remote employees. One of my previous US employers has remote and office workers in the UK, Spain, France, Germany, Poland, Italy as well as several locations in Asia. Another possible avenue is to research setting yourself up as a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporate entity (depending on your country) and operate as an independent contractor to a US company. There generally are many approvals, bureaucracy, rules and regulations and financial obligations that you must be aware of in your specific location before you choose this option. In these cases, you are usually responsible for your own taxes, health care, licenses, insurance, career development, etc. Hope this helps.
Speaking from personal experience, yes, some US companies hire remote workers from the EU. My experience is that you may have a better chance if you live in a country where the US company has an office or already has remote employees. One of my previous US employers has remote and office workers in the UK, Spain, France, Germany, Poland, Italy as well as several locations in Asia. Another possible avenue is to research setting yourself up as a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporate entity (depending on your country) and operate as an independent contractor to a US company. There generally are many approvals, bureaucracy, rules and regulations and financial obligations that you must be aware of in your specific location before you choose this option. In these cases, you are usually responsible for your own taxes, health care, licenses, insurance, career development, etc. Hope this helps.
Yes well I’ll do just that and then have the money to pursue a education in the US
Angy
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7219
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Angy!
I'm not able to directly address your question about whether US companies hire EU remote workers.
However, I can offer some information that may be helpful.
The US government has a program called the H-1B visa, which allows US companies to hire foreign workers
in specialty occupations. This program requires that the employer file a petition with the US Citizenship
and Immigration Services (USCIS). If the petition is approved, the foreign worker will be able to work in
the US for up to six years.
I recommend that you research the H-1B visa program and the requirements for obtaining one.
You can also contact the USCIS directly for more information.
I hope this information is helpful.
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫
|________________God Bless You, Richly!_________________|
|________________James Constantine,____________________|
|_____________The Little Old Aussie Battler._____________|
|_____Programming For Your Nutrition Education_____|
|___________________ ~ Since 1972! ______________________|
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫
I'm not able to directly address your question about whether US companies hire EU remote workers.
However, I can offer some information that may be helpful.
The US government has a program called the H-1B visa, which allows US companies to hire foreign workers
in specialty occupations. This program requires that the employer file a petition with the US Citizenship
and Immigration Services (USCIS). If the petition is approved, the foreign worker will be able to work in
the US for up to six years.
I recommend that you research the H-1B visa program and the requirements for obtaining one.
You can also contact the USCIS directly for more information.
I hope this information is helpful.
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫
|________________God Bless You, Richly!_________________|
|________________James Constantine,____________________|
|_____________The Little Old Aussie Battler._____________|
|_____Programming For Your Nutrition Education_____|
|___________________ ~ Since 1972! ______________________|
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫