Making Money with Toptal, Contra, Arc Guide
Platforms like Toptal, Contra and Arc are top-tier freelance networks that connect experienced developers, designers and consultants with US-EU based companies. After going through a tough screening process, they offer a chance to build long-term, high-paying client relationships. Although access from Turkey is restricted, getting accepted is entirely possible with the right preparation.
Who is it suitable for?
- Software developers, designers, project managers or consultants with at least 3-5 years of experience
- Those at a level to handle English business correspondence and calls
- Those who can set aside at least 2 hours a day and want to build long-term client relationships
- Experts who want to break away from mass platforms like Fiverr/Upwork and charge higher rates
How to start step by step?
- 1Platform Selection and Application
Start the process by creating an English profile on Toptal, Contra and Arc's application pages. Each platform's selection criteria differ; Toptal asks for more technical tests while Contra focuses on portfolio.
- 2Preparing for the Screening Process
Prepare for language, technical skill and problem-solving tests with LeetCode, portfolio updates and interview simulations. This process can take 2-5 weeks on Toptal, so be patient.
- 3Strengthen Your Profile
Prepare a portfolio describing your past projects with concrete results (revenue growth, user count, performance improvement). Keep your English summary text clear and professional.
- 4First Client Match
After acceptance, the platform matches you with suitable projects; clarify price and scope in the first meeting. Strictly stick to delivery dates to build trust on your first job.
- 5Set Up Your Payment Infrastructure
Open a Wise or Payoneer account to receive payments from the platform in USD/EUR. Transfers to banks in Turkey usually take 1-3 business days
- 6Contract and Legal Regulation
Arrange the freelance receipt or invoicing process through a company with your accountant. Clarifying your tax obligation from the start prevents problems later on.
- 7Scaling and Long-Term Relationship
After succeeding on your first project, ask the client for a reference and gradually raise your hourly rate. By working with multiple clients in parallel, you can boost your monthly income to the 3,000-10,000 USD range.
Realistic earnings expectation
During the first month there's usually no income while you go through the screening process and find your first client; cash flow starts between 1-3 months. By month 3, someone working 15-20 hours a week can earn around 1,500-3,000 USD. As you gain experience and references grow, the hourly rate can rise to 80-150 USD, and full-time workers can reach 8,000-15,000 USD per month.
Common mistakes and risks
- Applying for qualification tests without enough preparation and getting rejected early
- Losing trust in client calls due to weak English communication
- Setting the hourly rate too low and damaging the platform's premium segment image
- Neglecting tax and invoicing processes and later facing penalties
- Staying dependent on a single client instead of diversifying your income stream
Mastery tips
- Update your portfolio in English with measurable results before applying
- Practice technical and behavioral questions beforehand by doing interview simulations
- In your first few projects, focus on delivering quality work instead of price to build trust
- Stand out on platforms like Contra and Arc by picking a distinct niche (e.g. fintech, AI)
- Regularly collect customer references and add them to your LinkedIn profile
Platforms
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Create my free planFrequently asked questions
Can I apply to Toptal, Contra, or Arc from Turkey?
Yes, all three are open to global applications but mostly serve US-EU customers. Applications from Turkey are accepted, you just need to plan your time zone and payment infrastructure accordingly.
How do I receive payments and how should I handle taxes?
Most platforms provide USD/EUR payment via Payoneer, Wise, or bank transfer. In Turkey you need to issue a freelance receipt or company invoice and declare income tax.
How soon does the first payment arrive?
The screening process takes an average of 2-5 weeks to complete, after which the first client match and project delivery usually bring the first payment within 1-3 months.
What skills are needed for these platforms?
At least a few years of experience in specialty fields like software development, UI/UX design, project management or financial consulting, along with good English communication skills, is required.