A UK Company’s Guide to Paying Remote Staff in the Philippines

For many UK companies, hiring a brilliant virtual assistant in the Philippines is the easy part. The real challenge often comes after—how do you pay them efficiently, securely, and in compliance with both UK and Philippine requirements?

It’s a common concern: business owners want to reward their Filipino virtual assistants fairly but often feel lost when it comes to navigating international transfers, tax implications, and contracts.

This guide answers the central question: What is the simplest and most compliant way for a UK company to pay a remote virtual assistant in the Philippines?

Key Financial and Legal Considerations for UK Businesses

Before sending payments, UK companies should understand the financial and legal landscape of hiring abroad. This section addresses a frequent query: What are the UK tax implications for paying a virtual assistant in the Philippines?

UK Tax Considerations

• Business expense classification: Payments to a VA from the Philippines can be classified as legitimate business expenses if they are properly documented.
• Contracts are essential: A clear contract ensures both parties understand the terms of employment, deliverables, and payment schedules.
• No UK payroll tax: Since the virtual assistant is not a UK employee, you generally won’t deduct UK PAYE or National Insurance contributions.
• Philippine taxation: The VA is responsible for filing and paying taxes in the Philippines as a self-employed professional or contractor.
• HMRC compliance: Keep thorough records of contracts and payments to ensure compliance during audits.

The Best Way to Pay: Platforms and Processes

Now that you know the tax landscape, let’s tackle the practical question: How can a UK company pay a Filipino virtual assistant? The answer lies in using trusted international transfer platforms that balance affordability, speed, and security.

Comparing Top UK–Philippines Payment Platforms

Here’s a breakdown of two popular providers:

Both platforms are excellent choices for routine payments to a virtual assistant in the Philippines. Wise is particularly strong for transparency, while Revolut appeals to businesses already using its banking ecosystem.

Other Options

• PayPal: Widely accepted, but high fees (up to 4–5%) make it less ideal.
• Traditional banks: Reliable but costly due to poor exchange rates and high transfer fees.

For most UK SMEs, the best way to pay a freelancer in the Philippines is through Wise or Revolut, offering a mix of speed, low cost, and compliance.

Setting Up Contracts with a Filipino Virtual Assistant

Another common question is: How do I set up a contract with a Filipino virtual assistant?

Best Practices for Contracts

• Scope of work: Clearly define responsibilities—whether admin, social media, bookkeeping, or customer support.
• Payment terms: Specify currency (GBP or PHP), frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly), and method (Wise, Revolut, etc.).
• Confidentiality clause: Protects your business data and intellectual property.
• Termination clause: Outlines notice periods for both parties.
• Dispute resolution: Establishes procedures in case of disagreements.

A well-drafted contract not only secures compliance but also builds trust with your VA.

Conclusion

For UK companies, paying a remote VA from the Philippines doesn’t have to be complex. With the right platforms and a solid contract, you can reward your staff efficiently and compliantly.

• How can a UK company pay a Filipino VA? Use transparent, low-fee platforms like Wise or Revolut.
• What are the tax implications? Treat payments as business expenses, ensure contracts are in place, and keep records for HMRC.
• How to set up contracts? Define scope, payment terms, confidentiality, and dispute resolution.

Hiring a virtual assistant in the Philippines is one of the smartest moves UK companies can make. With the right guidance, you’ll avoid payment pitfalls and enjoy the full benefits of working with top global talent.
CreaThink Solutions is here to help—from recruitment to payroll—so you can scale with confidence.

How CreaThink Solutions Simplifies the Process

At CreaThink Solutions, we specialise in helping UK businesses confidently hire virtual assistants in the Philippines—and pay them without hassle.

Here’s how we make it simple:

• End-to-end recruitment: From screening to onboarding, we connect you with top VAs.
• Contracts & compliance: We guide you in drafting contracts that protect your business and ensure tax compliance.
• Payment support: Our expertise ensures you always choose the best way to pay freelancers in the Philippines—saving money and time.
• Scalability: Whether you need one VA or a full offshore team, we provide tailored staff outsourcing solutions.

With CreaThink Solutions, hiring and paying a VA from the Philippines becomes a streamlined process, so you can focus on growing your UK business. Learn more about our virtual assistant services and discover how we make offshore hiring effortless.

Ready to hire your next VA in the Philippines? Contact CreaThink Solutions today and start building your remote team the smart way.