Pakistan is now one of the top destinations for global remote talent.
With a large English-speaking workforce, affordable rates, and a strong work ethic, it’s the perfect place for US-based startups to find skilled professionals.
From software developers and graphic designers to accountants and virtual assistants, businesses can hire freelancers in Pakistan for US-based startups and get high-quality work at a fraction of the cost.
However, managing contracts, compliance, and payments across borders can be challenging. That’s where Remire.co makes a difference. Let’s discuss how you can do that
6 Steps to Hire Freelancers in Pakistan for US-Based Startups with Remire
Remire.co helps US startups hire, pay, and manage freelancers or remote employees in Pakistan, without setting up a local entity.
Here’s how the process works:
1. Share Your Requirements
Start by defining your hiring needs, the role, skill level, project duration, and budget.
Remire’s team helps you identify whether you should engage a freelancer, contractor, or full-time employee through their Employer of Record (EOR) platform.
2. Candidate Sourcing & Vetting
You can either bring your own freelancer or let Remire’s network match you with vetted professionals.
They handle background verification, skill testing, and contract eligibility checks — ensuring your remote hire meets both quality and compliance standards.
3. Legally Compliant Contracts
Remire drafts local-law-compliant contracts that protect your intellectual property, data security, and confidentiality.
All agreements include NDAs, IP transfer clauses, and clear payment terms in line with US startup legal standards.
4. Easy Payments in USD or PKR
Pay freelancers in Pakistan without worrying about currency conversions, tax filings, or transfer delays.
Remire manages payments through secure local and international channels (PKR or USD) and provides invoices, receipts, and audit logs for your accounting.
5. Tax, Payroll, and Compliance Covered
For startups hiring multiple contractors or transitioning to full-time teams, Remire handles:
- Local tax deductions (where applicable)
- EOBI and social security compliance
- Digital payslips and contribution tracking
- Statutory benefits (if employees are hired through EOR)
You stay compliant with Pakistan’s labour and tax laws while operating seamlessly from the US.
6. Onboarding & Performance Management
Once onboarded, freelancers can be integrated into your project management stack. Remire, on the other hand, provides HR dashboards, attendance tracking, and offboarding support
How Do I Pay a Freelancer in Pakistan?
Foreign employers can pay contractors via:
- Remire’s payroll automation (fastest & compliant)
- Bank transfers (SWIFT / IBAN)
- Payoneer or Wise
Remire’s system ensures both parties meet SBP remittance regulations and income tax obligations, while offering transparent digital payslips.
Tax and Compliance Practices When Hiring Freelancers from Pakistan
When paying Pakistani freelancers:
- Freelancers pay income tax (typically 5%–20%)
- Employers don’t need to withhold tax if hiring as independent contractors
- Corporate clients must maintain invoices for international audit purposes
Remire simplifies all of this — generating compliant invoices, automated tax statements, and proof of payment.
What Are the Labor Laws in Pakistan?
Pakistan’s labor laws protect full-time employees but not independent contractors.
Still, understanding key points ensures compliance and fair work practices.
Income Tax in Pakistan
- Salaried individuals: 2.5%–35% based on income brackets.
- Freelancers: Usually file under “income from business or profession.”
Social Security Contributions
- Applicable for employees, not independent contractors.
- Employers contribute ~6% to EOBI and Social Security for full-time staff.
Employment Benefits
Employees get paid leave, medical coverage, and gratuity — freelancers don’t unless contractually agreed.
Labor Laws, Visas, and Compliance for Foreign Employers
Work Permits in Pakistan
- Needed for foreign nationals working locally.
- The process includes a BOI invitation letter, NOC, and employment contract.
Employment Contracts
Contracts should specify job title, salary, leave entitlements, and dispute clauses.
Onboarding Workers in Pakistan
- Before the first day: Submit CNIC or passport copies
- First day: Orientation and bank account setup
- First week: Add to payroll
- Beyond: Continuous compliance via Remire’s automated HR platform
Why Hire Freelancers in Pakistan?
Hiring from Pakistan gives businesses a unique edge in both talent and cost.
- Skilled Workforce: Over 3 million freelancers, including top-rated tech experts, marketers, and finance professionals.
- Affordable Labor Costs: Average monthly salary ranges between PKR 60,000–250,000 (≈ USD 200–800), depending on skill level.
- Fluent English & Cultural Compatibility: Ideal for US, UK, and GCC clients.
- Time Zone Advantage: Overlapping hours with both Europe and Asia.
- Strong Remote Work Infrastructure: High adoption of platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Remire’s integrated payroll network.
Average Salary Guide – Hire Employees in Pakistan
| Role | Average Monthly Salary (PKR) | USD Equivalent | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | 150,000 – 300,000 | $500 – $1,000 | Full-time |
| Graphic Designer | 80,000 – 180,000 | $270 – $600 | Freelancer |
| Digital Marketer | 100,000 – 250,000 | $350 – $800 | Hybrid |
| Customer Support Agent | 60,000 – 120,000 | $200 – $400 | Remote |
| Accountant / Finance Executive | 120,000 – 200,000 | $400 – $650 | Remote / Onsite |
Remire vs Other Hiring Platforms in Pakistan
| Feature | Remire.co | Upwork | Fiverr | People HR Pakistan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Compliance | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Multi-Currency Payroll | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| EOR (Employer of Record) | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Tax & EOBI Management | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| One-Click Payments | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
Understanding the 70 Rule of Hiring
The 70% rule of hiring suggests hiring candidates who meet 70% of the requirements and have the potential to grow into the role.
It prevents over-screening and encourages diversity and adaptability — vital in Pakistan’s dynamic freelance market.
FAQs – Hire Freelancers in Pakistan
How can I legally hire freelancers in Pakistan?
Use an EOR or contractor platform like Remire.co to handle contracts, compliance, and payments legally under Pakistan’s regulations.
How do I pay freelancers in Pakistan?
You can pay via bank transfer, Payoneer, or directly through Remire’s payroll system, which automates currency conversion and compliance.
What are the benefits of hiring through Remire?
Remire handles contracts, compliance, payroll, and local taxes, letting you scale teams quickly without setting up a local entity.
Which Countries Are Hiring Pakistanis the Most?
Pakistan’s freelance exports are booming — exceeding $400 million annually. The biggest hiring countries include:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- United Arab Emirates
- Saudi Arabia
- Canada
- Australia
These countries frequently hire Pakistani developers, accountants, designers, and customer service reps via Remire’s global EOR and contractor solutions.
Which is the Best Platform for Hiring in Pakistan?
The best hiring platform depends on your needs:
- For short-term freelancers → Upwork, Fiverr
- For full-time employees → Rozee.pk
- For compliant international hiring & payroll → Remire.co (best all-in-one option)
Who is the Biggest Job Provider in Pakistan?
In the private sector, Pakistan’s IT and telecom companies (e.g., Systems Ltd, Telenor, Jazz) are among the largest job creators.
However, globally, freelance marketplaces and EOR providers like Remire are opening far greater opportunities for remote professionals across Pakistan.
Conclusion: Hire Freelancers in Pakistan for US-based Startups
Hiring employees in Pakistan opens access to world-class talent, but managing compliance, contracts, and payroll can be complex.
With Remire.co, you can hire, pay, and manage teams in Pakistan with zero hassle — fully compliant, fast, and secure.
Start hiring freelancers in Pakistan with Remire today, and build your global team the smart way.