How to Hire Filipino Workers Directly – Ultimate Guide

Do you have a freelance task that you need to outsource? Why not hire someone from the Philippines?

Filipino workers are affordable, dependable, and highly skilled, making them a great option for businesses of all sizes that need to hire freelancers for many different tasks.

Foreign businesses, in particular, benefit from hiring Filipino workers due to their cost-effectiveness and the availability of various payment structures for remote employees. These businesses can leverage the expertise of Filipino workers while managing expenses efficiently.

Here’s how you can hire Filipino freelancers directly without using an expensive agency.

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OnlineJobs.ph is our favorite place to find affordable virtual assistants:

• One of the lowest and most affordable rates for virtual workers
• Has the largest database of Filipino talent
• Offers plenty of resources like time tracking software and a free payment system (EasyPay)

Key Takeaways

• The Filipino workforce is full of experts trained in everything from IT to robotics and especially VA work
• There are special considerations to take into account when hiring a Filipino freelancer, including cultural differences, employment requirements, and more.
• To hire a high-quality Filipino worker directly, use a trusted site like OnlineJobs.ph for the largest, most qualified pool of candidates in the Philippines.

About the Filipino Workforce

Curious about the Filipino workforce?

Let’s dive a bit deeper into why so many companies are now outsourcing work to Filipino freelancers. Foreign businesses employ workers in the Philippines through various methods, such as establishing a legal entity, using an employer of record, or hiring contractors.

A few of the industries that commonly use Filipino workers include:

• IT
• Manufacturing
• Digital Marketing
• Healthcare
• Social media
• UX design
• Graphic design
• Human resources
• Etc.

Some common job roles filled by Filipino workers are:

• Virtual assistants
• For Real Estate
• IT
• Web development
• Content creation
• Graphic design
• UI/UX design
• Programming
• Video editing
• Etc.

There are some skills and qualities that make the Philippines one of the best countries to hire freelancers from.

A few of these include:

• English proficiency
• Adaptability
• Skill in tech functions thanks to available training
• Strong work ethic
• Dedication
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Sense of community and teamwork
• Growth mindset

Benefits of Hiring Filipino Workers

Hiring Filipino workers can bring numerous benefits to foreign companies. One of the primary advantages is the cost-effectiveness of hiring Filipino employees. The cost of hiring and paying employees in the Philippines is significantly lower compared to other countries. Additionally, Filipino workers are known for their strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and high level of education. They are also proficient in English, making it easier for foreign companies to communicate and manage their workforce.

Moreover, the Philippines has a large pool of skilled and talented workers, making it an ideal destination for companies looking to outsource their operations. The country’s business process outsourcing (BPO) industry is one of the largest in the world, with many foreign companies setting up their operations in the country. This thriving industry is a testament to the quality and reliability of Filipino workers, who excel in various fields such as customer service, IT, and digital marketing.

Legal Considerations & Labor Laws

While there are many positives to hiring Filipino workers, there are some special legal considerations you will need to be aware of that don’t apply to workers in the U.S.

It’s important to note that requirements differ when hiring in-person vs. remote and full-time vs. contractor. Additionally, understanding the implications of withholding taxes is crucial. Using a contractor management solution can alleviate concerns about tax codes since no withholding taxes are applied, but misclassifying workers could lead to financial penalties and legal issues related to back taxes.

Legal Entity: Establish One or Work with Agency

In any case, to hire Filipino workers, you will need to set up a legal entity in the country or partner with an employer of record (EOR).

Engaging domestic employees or sending them on business trips to the Philippines can contribute to the establishment of a permanent establishment, leading to local corporate tax implications. It is important to recognize these circumstances to avoid noncompliance penalties associated with tax liabilities.

Establishing a legal entity is a good idea if you are looking to hire in-person or full-time employees, or if you want to establish a global standing. Otherwise, it can be expensive, time-consuming, and exhausting to do.

Working with an EOR is generally more preferred since someone else does most of the work for you. An EOR can act as an HR department that handles the hiring process, visas, payment, and more.

Partnering with an Employer of Record in the Philippines

Partnering with an employer of record (EOR) in the Philippines can be a convenient and cost-effective way for foreign companies to hire and manage employees in the country. An EOR is a legal entity that acts as the employer of record for a company’s employees in the Philippines. This means that the EOR is responsible for managing payroll, benefits, and taxes for the employees, as well as ensuring compliance with local labor laws.

By partnering with an EOR, foreign companies can avoid the need to establish a legal entity in the Philippines, which can be a time-consuming and costly process. Additionally, an EOR can provide expertise and guidance on local labor laws and regulations, helping to minimize the risk of non-compliance. This partnership allows foreign companies to focus on their core business operations while the EOR handles the complexities of employment in the Philippines.

Pay Employees: Filipino Workers

Some important factors to consider regarding payment in the Philippines include the following:

• Social Security System (SSS). The SSS provides financial support for various contingencies, such as sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, and unemployment.
• Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). PhilHealth is a government-funded healthcare system.
• Home Development Mutual Fund. This housing program provides short-term loans and access to housing programs for all Filipino workers.

Understanding the complexities and requirements associated with paying employees in the Philippines is crucial. This includes compliance with local labor laws and payroll processes.

There are also some statutory benefits that must be granted to workers in the Philippines:

• National regular holidays. This number varies each year, but in 2024, there will be 10 national regular holidays.
• Special non-working days. The Filipino government prescribes eight to 10 special non-working days per year. In 2024, there are eight.
• Service discretionary leave. This is similar to paid time off in other countries.
• Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA). PERA is a retirement fund similar to the U.S. 401K retirement plan.
• 13th-month pay. Unlike a bonus, 13th-month pay is non-negotiable and is typically equivalent to one month’s pay or one-twelfth of the employee’s annual salary. Employers must pay it out by December 24 each year.

Overtime pay is another critical aspect, calculated based on regular hours worked, holidays, and rest days, ensuring employees are fairly compensated for extra work.

If you hire someone directly as a contractor, there is some risk involved.

Hiring a contractor in the Philippines comes with a misclassification risk, which could lead to fines, legal action, and a damaged reputation.

Tax Rates and Brackets in the Philippines

The Philippines has a progressive tax system, with tax rates ranging from 0% to 35%. The tax brackets are as follows:

• ₱0-250,000: 0%
• ₱250,000-400,000: 15%
• ₱400,000-800,000: 20%
• ₱800,000-2,000,000: 25%
• ₱2,000,000-8,000,000: 30%
• ₱8,000,000+: 35%

In addition to income tax, employers in the Philippines are also required to make contributions to the Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF). These contributions are essential for providing social security, health insurance, and housing benefits to employees. Understanding these tax obligations is crucial for foreign companies to ensure compliance and avoid any legal issues.

Local Labor Laws in the Philippines

The Philippines has a comprehensive set of labor laws that govern the employment of workers in the country. Some of the key labor laws include:

• The Labor Code of the Philippines, which sets out the minimum standards for employment, including minimum wage, working hours, and benefits.
• The Social Security Law, which provides for social security benefits for employees.
• The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Law, which provides for health insurance benefits for employees.
• The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) Law, which provides for housing benefits for employees.

Employers in the Philippines are required to comply with these labor laws, which can be complex and time-consuming. Partnering with an EOR can help to minimize the risk of non-compliance and ensure that employers are meeting their obligations under local labor laws. This partnership allows foreign companies to navigate the intricacies of Filipino labor laws with ease and confidence.

Steps to Hiring Filipino Workers

Have we sold you on hiring Filipino workers? Good!

When hiring international employees, it is crucial to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and legal requirements.

Here’s how to do it.

Understanding the Hiring Process in the Philippines

The hiring process in the Philippines can be complex and time-consuming, involving multiple steps and requirements. Here is an overview of the typical hiring process in the Philippines:

1. Job Posting: The employer posts a job advertisement on a job board or website.
2. Application: Candidates apply for the job by submitting their resume and cover letter.
3. Screening: The employer screens the applications and selects candidates for an interview.
4. Interview: The employer conducts an interview with the selected candidates.
5. Job Offer: The employer makes a job offer to the selected candidate.
6. Onboarding: The employer onboards the new employee, which includes providing them with a job description, contract, and benefits information.

Employers in the Philippines are required to comply with local labor laws and regulations throughout the hiring process. This includes ensuring that the job advertisement is compliant with labor laws, conducting a fair and transparent interview process, and providing the new employee with a comprehensive onboarding package. By following these steps and maintaining compliance, foreign companies can successfully hire and integrate Filipino workers into their operations.

Sourcing Quality Workers

To source quality workers, I use a dedicated freelance platform that vets freelancers and offers ones with different expertise.

Use a direct hiring website that has been through the process of hiring freelancers to foreign countries and offers solutions for things like payment, contracts, etc.

Our favorite platform for directly hiring Filipino freelancers is OnlineJobs.ph [Check out our review]. They have a safe, trustworthy platform with the largest talent pool in the whole country, with more than 250,000 profiles and over 10,000 Filipinos joining each month.

This site has freelancers specializing in everything from VA work to Facebook marketing experts and even customer service representatives.

Once you have your shortlist of candidates, it’s time to move on to the next step.

Interview & Hiring

Next, reach out to your shortlist and set up interviews.

Interviewing freelancers in the Philippines comes with a few extra considerations. Follow these best practices to ensure cultural sensitivity and optimized communication when interviewing candidates:

• Video interviews can allow you to read body language and non-verbal cues better, which could get lost in translation on the phone.
• Establish clear lines of communication and expectations so everyone is on the same page.
• Ask for references so that you can vet the freelancer further.
• Evaluate the technical skills and expertise that will be required for the role you’re hiring for.
• Discuss time zones and time differences.
• Discuss payment terms.

Check out more tips to avoid common scams on OnlineJobs.ph >>

Cultural considerations to keep in mind during the hiring process include:

• Filipino culture is often more polite and less direct than the U.S. Instead of “no,” try using “we’ll see” or “I’ll try,” as directness can be interpreted as rude.
• Filipinos often follow a hierarchal structure in the workplace, so “ma’am” and “sir” are commonly used when referring to superiors.
• Filipino culture is more collectivist and community-based than our individualistic culture in the US, so a collaborative environment is welcomed.
• The Philippines is all about celebrating religious and national holidays, so make sure you understand what time off will be necessary.

Once you’ve selected your perfect candidate, set up clear and fair employment contracts that work for everyone.

Onboarding & Training

When the contract is set up, and payment terms are finalized, move to training and onboarding.

Due to the slight language barrier and differing time zones, onboarding and training present a unique challenge to U.S. companies hiring from the Philippines. Luckily, there are ways to work around this.

Provide comprehensive onboarding training documents that your freelancer can easily reference and understand. These documents should clearly outline expectations, daily tasks, requirements, etc.

Set up clear communication channels where freelancers can come to you with questions any time of the day, while also understanding that there may be a delay in response time.

It’s also a good idea to set up SOPs (we recommend these SOP software) and use workflow tools that accommodate the differing time zones and allow work processes to flow seamlessly without necessitating constant checking in.

Maintaining Compliance & Ethics

Once your employee or contractor in the Philippines is working with you, you’ll need to make sure to maintain compliance with both Filipino and local labor laws.

There are also a few ethical considerations to bear in mind with compensation and working conditions. To provide better working conditions from afar, allow Filipino workers to work flexible hours and fair pay.

It’s also important to understand and respect the culture, including national holidays and traditions that are meaningful to your team.

To maintain compliance, regularly review contracts and update employment terms and conditions as necessary.

Conclusion

The benefits of hiring Filipino workers are numerous and, with the right platform, it’s incredibly easy to hire a Filipino worker directly.

When you hire a Filipino worker, you benefit from cost savings, English proficiency, work ethic, and technical expertise.

All you need to do is take certain legal and cultural considerations into account, create an employer profile on OnlineJobs.ph, pay a low flat-rate fee, and find everything from VAs to copywriters and more.

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Learn More

OnlineJobs.ph is our favorite place to find affordable virtual assistants:

• One of the lowest and most affordable rates for virtual workers
• Has the largest database of Filipino talent
• Offers plenty of resources like time tracking software and a free payment system (EasyPay)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I consider hiring a Filipino worker?

Consider hiring a Filipino worker because they are cost-effective, English proficient, and technically skilled.

How much does it cost to hire employees from the Philippines?

The cost of hiring an employee in the Philippines includes the employee's total base salary plus a minimum of 13.5% of that salary.

How do I hire an independent contractor in the Philippines?

To hire an independent contractor in the Philippines, all you need to do is create a profile on a trusted site like OnlineJobs.ph and get connected with independent contractors, interview candidates, select the right one, and pay them directly.

Where can I find remote Filipino workers?

OnlineJobs.ph is the best place to find and hire remote Filipino workers.