In the couple of EU countries I've worked on contract, we were paid by an off-shore non-EU holding company. The flying was temporary and intercontinental. In the EU, claiming 'self-employed' status, I have had to declare I have more than 1 customer, even more than 2. My company is registered, accounts filed and taxes paid. Is this not the case in UK? Can you be self-employed working only for 1 agency with only 1 source of income? Do you really have freedom over your working schedule and time off periods? If not how can you be truely self-employed?