To be clear, international independent contractors aren't 1099 workers. But because “1099” is the IRS code for U.S.-based contract workers, U.S. companies may associate “1099” with all contractors, regardless of where the contractors are based.
All immigrants regardless of legal status are able to earn a living as independent contractors, or start a business using an ITIN or SSN.
However, the IRS doesn't require a company to withhold taxes or report any income from an international contractor if the contractor is not a U.S. citizen and the services provided are outside the U.S. filing forms 1099 is required if: The contractor is located internationally but is a U.S. citizen.
Foreign independent contractors must submit IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E to certify their foreign status and claim any applicable tax treaty benefits. The US company may also need to file Form 1099-NEC if certain conditions are met, though this is more common for domestic contractors.
Conversely, if the independent contractor is not a US person and did not perform any of their services within the US, you will not be required to issue Form 1099. Instead, the foreign contractor will have to complete and file Form W-8BEN.
Freelancers and Independent contractors must file a US tax return even when working overseas. The IRS provides a variety of tax benefits for Americans living abroad. Using these expat tax benefits, many overseas contractors can reduce their US tax bill significantly.
Form 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC: If your business pays a foreign contractor with a temporary TIN (ITIN) $600 or more for services provided within the United States, then you can file Form 1099-NEC or Form 1099-MISC to report these payments to the IRS.
Foreign vendors do not complete the Substitute Form W-9; foreign persons or entities must submit one of five available forms. The vendor must determine the one most appropriate to their United States tax status for reportable transactions.
Form 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC: If your business pays a foreign contractor with a temporary TIN (ITIN) $600 or more for services provided within the United States, then you can file Form 1099-NEC or Form 1099-MISC to report these payments to the IRS.