RobinB wrote:
There is a myth in some sections of the translator community that translators outside any specific EU country have an advantage over translators within that EU country because the former don't charge VAT on the face of their invoice. This is completely irrelevant, for the reasons I explained above. The question of whether you charge VAT on the face of your invoice will never affect your chances of business from corporate clients or (unless they're breaking the law) agencies.
This is interesting because I was under that exact impression.
3) As a freelance in Germany, you are not subject to any social security payments whatsoever. Health insurance and pension arrangements are entirely up to you. Note, though, that any U.S. pension arrangements in place will not be portable to Germany.
I don't plan to retire in Germany--at least not at this point anyway. I would probably continue to invest in my retirement accounts here if I am allowed to.
4) Do not expect to get an immediate work permit allowing you to work on a self-employed basis, unless of course you are an EU national, in which case it isn't a problem at all.
I think that as a spouse of a German national I can legally work--self-employed or otherwise. At least that was the case the last time we lived in Germany (although we only lived there for 6 months though).
5) Although U.S. citizens are taxable on their worldwide income, the U.S.-German DTA rules out double taxation in the vast majority of cases. You'll have to file annually with the IRS, but you can assume that you won't have to pay any U.S. tax.
Yes, that was my understanding unless income is over 80,000.
6) Overall, Germany has one of the most liberal regimes worldwide for freelance translators. It's worth taking advantage of if you have the opportunity.
It is nice to hear some positive things about it. Thanks.
Robin
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