Hightekers Blog
Umbrella company pension contributions: what builds your pension
Freelancing through an umbrella company can help you build a pension without managing every contribution yourself. Here's how mandatory pension payments work, what your employer contributes, and how the rules differ across the main European markets.
Best countries to move to from UK as a skilled freelancer
Six markets, compared on the things that decide what a skilled freelancer keeps and what they're entitled to. Here's how each one treats your income, contributions, and legal standing once you become a resident.
Belgium digital nomad visa: Freelancing in Belgium legally
Thousands of remote professionals already live and work in Belgium legally, but do any of them use a digital nomad visa? Here is how freelancers get authorized to work in Belgium, and which rules apply once you're the one signing the lease.
Best countries to work remotely in Europe as a freelancer
Five European markets compared on visa routes, tax position, and the social security rules that decide whether a remote setup gets through its first full year.
Self-employed social security Belgium: rates and coverage
Belgian social contributions are one of the few costs of freelancing billed on set dates: four deadlines a year, for an amount your fund sets in advance. Here is what you owe, why the amount often doesn't match your current income, and what changes under an employment contract instead.
Umbrella company comparison: How to choose the right provider
You've decided to work through an umbrella company. The next logical question is "which one?". But if you go looking for the answers online, you'll find lists that tell you who exists but not what separates a provider that supports your career from one that runs your payroll, charges its fee, and leaves you to figure everything else out.
Umbrella company mortgage: How to borrow what you earn
Your umbrella company should not stop you from getting a mortgage, but it can affect how much a lender thinks you earn. Here’s how umbrella income is assessed, why your payslip may work against you, and how to present a stronger borrowing profile.
A contractor's guide to umbrella company holiday pay
Holiday pay is not extra money added to your contractor rate. It comes from what you bill, and how it is calculated, saved, or paid out depends on the country and your employment contract. Here’s what to expect before you take time off.
What can you claim from umbrella company expenses?
Business expenses can make a real difference to your freelance income, but what you can claim depends heavily on where you work. Here’s how umbrella company expenses are handled across Europe, which costs may qualify, and where the rules become more restrictive.