FAQ for developers

Yes, Lemon.io is a legitimate platform for software developers. It connects vetted senior software engineers with vetted clients and offers real remote project opportunities. The platform has an established vetting process, real client engagements, and a community of professionals working on meaningful assignments, making it a trusted choice for developers seeking remote work.

Lemon.io differs from other freelance platforms like Toptal or Upwork in how it connects software engineers with clients and the level of vetting involved. Lemon.io focuses on connecting vetted senior software engineers with vetted clients and emphasizes quality matches rather than an open marketplace. Unlike Upwork, where many freelancers can create profiles without in-depth screening, Lemon.io requires a thorough vetting process before developers can receive project opportunities. Compared to Toptal, which also vets talent, Lemon.io offers a streamlined experience with a focus on remote project matches and a community built around long-term collaboration opportunities. This approach helps ensure that developers are well-aligned with client needs and that clients can access experienced engineers efficiently.

Lemon.io is a marketplace of vetted developers. The platform carefully selects clients as well – typically startups and mid-sized companies looking for reliable collaboration with experienced engineers.

Lemon.io is more than a marketplace – it’s a flexible talent partner.

Three engagement options:

• Contract developers managed through the platform;
• Direct hire candidates (we handle vetting and matching);
• Try-before-hire: start contract, convert to full-time.

Beyond matching, Lemon.io manages vetting, contracts, payments, and ongoing support.

Lemon.io differs from a traditional outstaffing company by offering software engineers greater flexibility and faster access to projects. The platform provides both short-term and long-term project opportunities, allowing developers to choose assignments that best match their interests and preferences. If a suggested project is not a good fit, software engineers can decline it, and Lemon.io will continue searching for a more suitable option.

Unlike traditional outstaffing models, Lemon.io does not extend the hiring process over several months or require multiple interview stages. The streamlined vetting and matching approach helps developers move to active projects more quickly while maintaining a focus on quality matches.

Collaborating with Lemon.io gives software engineers access to short-term and long-term projects without the need to sell themselves, negotiate terms, or handle organizational tasks. Lemon.io manages the matching and onboarding process, allowing developers to focus on their work.

Developers collaborate directly with clients, without managers or intermediaries, while still having Lemon.io’s support when needed. Both clients and engineers are pre-vetted, ensuring a high standard of communication and professionalism. Lemon.io also guarantees payment for completed work and offers access to a developer community with events, trainings, and peer connections.

Lemon.io does not cover certain employment-related benefits and expenses. Paid sick leave and vacation time are not provided and should be factored into a software engineer’s hourly rate. Lemon.io and its clients also do not supply hardware or paid tools and services required for work. In addition, Lemon.io does not handle taxes – developers are responsible for declaring their income and paying applicable taxes. However, if a software engineer operates through a registered company, they can invoice Lemon.io on behalf of that company, which may simplify tax handling.

To become a Lemon.io freelancer, software engineers must complete registration and pass the vetting process, which includes CV screening, a recruiter call, and a technical interview. Vetting typically takes at least 5 business days. Project matching and client interviews may take from several days to several weeks, depending on demand for the tech stack and project availability. Lemon.io provides feedback at each stage and stays in touch throughout the process.

Yes, software engineers can pass multiple technical interviews at Lemon.io. This typically applies when a developer’s CV shows strong experience and a broad set of relevant skills across multiple technologies or tech stacks.

Lemon.io’s developer vetting process usually takes at least 5 business days. The process is flexible and can move forward according to a timeline that is comfortable for the software engineer.

Yes, software engineers can start Lemon.io’s developer vetting process while working on other projects.

Lemon.io’s vetting process includes several steps: VideoAsk, an intro call, a technical call, and filling out the Lemon profile as a CV.

Clients typically discuss culture fit, professional experience, and work approach during interviews at Lemon.io. Developers can expect questions about their background, work ethic, processes they use, and areas of comfort. When the client is technical, interviews may also include a deeper review of expertise, past projects, logical reasoning questions, and, in some cases, live coding or verbal tasks.

One or two client calls are typically required for a software developer at Lemon.io. Clients are informed that developers have already passed vetting, so multi-round interviews are usually not required. In practice, interviews may involve a CEO, CTO, or team lead. In some cases, a technical test task may also be requested, either paid or unpaid.

Junior or mid-level software engineers typically cannot work with Lemon.io, as the platform focuses on senior-level developers. They can stay in touch by completing the registration form on the Lemon.io website. After gaining more experience and reaching senior level, Lemon.io may contact them about collaboration opportunities.

Lemon.io does not request feedback from a software engineer’s current employer during the vetting process. The only feedback Lemon.io may collect is from clients if the software engineer has previously collaborated with them through the Lemon.io marketplace.

Lemon.io cannot cooperate with software engineers from certain countries due to legal restrictions and current client demand. If there are no active requests from clients for senior software engineers in a specific country, Lemon.io is unable to proceed with cooperation in that location.

Yes, you can still continue the vetting process at Lemon.io if you cancel an intro or technical call. However, you should inform the Lemon.io team about the cancellation in advance. Please note that if there are multiple cancellations, the vetting process may be paused for a certain period of time.

Yes, software engineers who were rejected after an intro or technical call at Lemon.io can reapply later. Lemon.io may proceed with the vetting process if, at the time of reapplication, the software engineer has a relevant tech stack, an appropriate seniority level, and sufficient English proficiency.

Lemon.io works with tech stacks based on current client demand. The platform focuses on mainstream technologies like React, Node.js, Python, Ruby on Rails, Java, .NET, and cloud platforms, as well as roles in UX/UI design, Data, AI/ML, QA, and Data Analysis.

You can still register even if your primary stack or specialization isn’t currently in high demand. Lemon.io will reach out when relevant opportunities arise – provided you have strong senior-level expertise and are located in a country where Lemon.io operates.

Yes, Lemon.io accepts developers with a notice period, but availability during that period matters.

The ideal scenario is if you can start part-time on a project while serving your notice period, then transition to full-time once available. This allows you to begin collaboration immediately while managing your current commitments.

However, if you’re unable to work at all during your notice period and can only start full-time after 2+ months, Lemon.io may not be able to move forward with your profile at that time.

Countries eligible for software engineers to collaborate with Lemon.io are spread across multiple regions worldwide. Lemon.io collaborates with Senior Software Engineers from more than 71 countries located in North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. This global coverage allows Lemon.io to build a diverse, international developer community while offering fully remote opportunities.

After registering on Lemon.io, the team reviews your profile to better understand your background and experience. This may take some time. Once completed, you’ll be invited to a 40-minute intro call and receive follow-up questions by email. Submit your CV to speed up the process – it helps assess your current projects and expertise more efficiently.

To join Lemon.io as a freelance software engineer, developers must be senior-level, have strong written and spoken English communication skills, and at least three years of commercial, hands-on experience with a specific tech stack. Availability of 20+ hours per week is required, with full-time preferred. Collaboration depends on current client demand for the relevant technology.

The technical interview at Lemon.io is a one-on-one session conducted by experienced contractors from the platform. It typically lasts about 1.5 hours and focuses on the developer’s primary technology or tech stack through theoretical questions and a practical part, which may include live coding. The interview also assesses communication and soft skills. Feedback is usually shared within one business day after the interview.

Software engineers on Lemon.io are not required to fully work in the client’s timezone. Most clients use tools like Slack, Jira, and Trello for async communication and task management. However, many projects include daily standups or a few sync meetings per week, so some overlap in working hours is usually needed to stay aligned and communicate effectively.

Lemon.io does not use a built-in time tracker. Software engineers simply submit the number of hours worked. In some cases, clients may request the use of a time tracking tool, but developers can decline such requests, and Lemon.io will help match them with another suitable project.

Software engineers do not need perfect English to join Lemon.io’s developer community, but a strong level of English is required. All projects involve communication in English, so developers must be able to clearly understand spoken discussions during meetings and handle written communication, which is typically conducted in English.

Yes, software developers use their own personal laptops and mobile devices (iOS and Android) for development work. Clients are not responsible for providing equipment to developers. If specific devices or tools are required for a project, any additional costs can be discussed with the client during the call.

No, you cannot browse or review project offers before applying to Lemon.io. Recruiters sometimes share example projects during the vetting process to illustrate available opportunities, but developers are matched based on skills and client needs – not by choosing specific projects upfront.

Lemon.io does not offer visa assistance for software engineers. However, in cases of direct hire by a client, visa support may be possible depending on the client’s capabilities and policies.

Lemon.io cooperates exclusively with senior software engineers. However, this does not mean that clients work only with seniors or tech leads within their teams. Clients may also have junior or mid-level software engineers on their internal teams, but those team members are not engaged through the Lemon.io marketplace and typically join projects through other channels.

Yes, Lemon.io accepts referrals from software engineers. When a referred developer starts a project and logs 30 hours of work, the referring software engineer receives a financial bonus of $200.

Lemon.io does not provide direct mentorship or learning resources during cooperation. However, it offers access to a strong community of senior software engineers, where developers can exchange expertise, ask for advice, and share knowledge with other experienced professionals.

Software engineers collaborating with Lemon.io gain access to a global community of 1,000+ senior-level developers. This includes opportunities to connect with peers, attend offline meetups in different countries, and participate in online events covering both technical topics and professional well-being. Check out our vlog to see how fun previous gatherings were: LEMON.IO EURO TRIP VLOG.

Lemon.io also hosts regular online sessions on areas such as Machine Learning, Flutter, and career development. Developers stay informed about these opportunities through the contact details they provide during registration.

Software engineers do not apply for projects directly on Lemon.io. After passing the vetting process and joining the Lemon.io community, the matching team shares projects that fit a developer’s skills and requirements. If a project is of interest, the developer confirms it, Lemon.io arranges an intro call with the client, and once both sides agree, the engineer starts working directly with the client using the client’s communication tools.

Lemon.io does not focus on a single technology or development area. Clients work across industries such as fintech, healthcare, education, sports, e-commerce, travel, social platforms, and business software.

There is higher demand for technologies like JavaScript and its frameworks, TypeScript, React Native, iOS, Flutter, Python, Ruby, and PHP. Lemon.io also collaborates with experienced data scientists and UI/UX designers. Even if a specific technology is not currently in demand, software engineers are encouraged to register, as client requests vary over time.

There are no strict schedule requirements for software engineers working with Lemon.io. Developers can choose working hours that suit them, while availability for calls and written communication is agreed directly with the client. Some U.S.-based clients may request 3–4 hours of overlapping time for collaboration.

Yes, software engineers can learn new technologies while working on Lemon.io projects, as long as they have strong experience with the core technology required for the project. Clients may be open to developers mastering additional technologies during the engagement.

If a developer learns new technologies outside of active projects, they can contact the Lemon.io team to validate their expertise. In this case, a new technical interview may be scheduled, and relevant projects using those technologies can be offered upon successful evaluation.

No, your current employer cannot see your profile on Lemon.io. Developer profiles are not public, and even clients can only view a candidate’s profile when a call is scheduled.

Yes, all projects on Lemon.io are remote. In rare cases, exceptions may apply to direct-hire projects, but the vast majority of opportunities available through the platform are fully remote.

Lemon.io’s clients are primarily located in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. In addition, Lemon.io also collaborates with clients from other countries worldwide.

Yes, you can get a long-term project through Lemon.io. Many software engineers and clients collaborate on long-term engagements through the platform, with some projects lasting for several years, depending on client needs and mutual fit.

No, Lemon.io does not guarantee a project to every vetted developer. Completing the vetting process makes a software engineer eligible to receive project offers, but successful matching depends on how well their skills and experience align with current client needs. Project placement is driven by client demand and requirements.

Yes, there are rules for offering projects on Lemon.io. The platform prioritizes software engineers whose qualifications best match a client’s project requirements. If a developer’s skills, experience, and profile align closely with a specific project, Lemon.io will offer that opportunity to them rather than to candidates whose qualifications do not meet the client’s expectations. The goal is always to find the best possible match for each project.

After a project ends on Lemon.io, if the cooperation with the client is is no longer continued, the developer can return to the Lemon.io community at his\her own decision. Lemon.io will then continue connecting this developer with new clients and their project opportunities as they become available, on a regular basis.

Yes, you can choose which projects to work on at Lemon.io.
You can set preferences for project types (e.g., fintech only), client locations, or specific industries. While being more flexible generally leads to faster matching and more opportunities, having clear preferences ensures you work on projects aligned with your goals.

Lemon.io works with diverse clients globally, so all preferences should be set professionally and respectfully.

Software engineers can increase their chances of getting a project with Lemon.io by having a realistic and competitive rate, strong availability, a high level of English proficiency, and solid knowledge of multiple programming languages and frameworks. Being flexible also plays an important role, as developers who are open to different types of projects and collaboration with various teams: without excessive restrictions – have more opportunities to be connected with clients.

Yes, you can find part-time projects on Lemon.io.

The majority of opportunities are full-time (around 40 hours per week), as most clients prefer long-term, dedicated collaboration. Part-time roles (20–30 hours) do appear occasionally, but they’re more of an exception than the rule.

Lemon.io’s clients are primarily startups and mid-size companies based in the United States, Canada, Australia and Western Europe. Project durations vary by type: mobile app projects usually last 2–3 months, web projects typically run for 3–6 months, and some engagements may be as short as one month or extend beyond a year.

Communication with clients on Lemon.io is handled directly through common collaboration tools such as Slack, Jira, and Trello. Most projects include regular sync meetings, either daily or a few times per week, to discuss tasks, align on progress, and clarify any questions.

Not always. Some clients may not have a technical expert, such as a CTO, on their side. Lemon.io carefully reviews projects from non-technical founders, and it is also common for teams to work without duplicated expertise in a specific tech stack

Clients assess a software engineer’s fit for a project on Lemon.io by relying on Lemon.io’s vetting expertise and developer connecting process. Even non-technical clients usually come with predefined requirements prepared by a technical advisor, which they review based on the developer’s CV and interview discussions. In addition to technical alignment, soft skills play an important role in the final decision.

The time it takes to get matched with a project on Lemon.io depends on demand for the developer’s tech stack, availability, and rate. Full-time developers are often matched in less than a week, while part-time availability or higher rates may extend the timeline.

The intellectual property rights created by a software developer belong to the client. According to Lemon.io’s Terms and Conditions, all deliverables, including intermediate or partial versions, are considered works made for hire and become the client’s property after full payment is received.

Software engineers cannot receive payments in cryptocurrency when working with Lemon.io.

Yes, Lemon.io guarantees payment for the hours logged by software engineers, provided those hours accurately reflect completed work and delivered tasks. If hours are logged without the corresponding work being completed, the situation is reviewed in accordance with Lemon.io’s rules and conditions.

Software engineers do not pay any commissions or additional fees during a project with Lemon.io. The only possible fee on the developer’s side is the standard commission charged by the selected payment method when receiving payments. However, Lemon.io covers the $3 commission for completing payments to a Payoneer account.

Lemon.io does not provide tax advice or handle taxes on behalf of software engineers. Developers are responsible for managing their own tax obligations and are encouraged to consult a qualified tax professional in their country or state for guidance.

Software engineers on Lemon.io are paid once a month based on the hours logged during the previous month. Lemon.io calculates the payment by multiplying the approved hours by the developer’s rate and covers the $3 commission for transfers to a Payoneer account. Payments are usually processed on the 9th–10th of the following month and are sent either to a Payoneer account or directly to a bank card, with no additional commissions charged by Lemon.io.

Yes, Lemon.io offers alternative payment methods for software engineers. Developers can receive payments either directly to a bank card or through a Payoneer account. Registering with Payoneer takes only a few minutes, and funds can be withdrawn to a bank account.

Software engineers define their rates on Lemon.io before project matching begins, and this rate is used as the default for all projects on the platform. Developers can increase or decrease their rate when a specific project is offered. If a developer has not worked with hourly rates before, they can estimate one by dividing their current or most recent monthly salary by 168 hours.

Software engineers on Lemon.io define their rate before starting a project. For long-term engagements, rate changes are possible, but typically no more than once every six months. Clients usually prefer stable rates during an active project, so it is best to set expectations clearly at the beginning.

On Lemon.io projects, software engineers are responsible for estimating the work and setting deadlines. Developers define the required hours and delivery timelines, often providing a range when the scope is not fully detailed. Estimates are typically created for new projects that require upfront planning, while in some cases deadlines and hours are discussed with the client or refined together with the team after the project starts.

Yes, a client can disagree with a software engineer’s task estimates on Lemon.io. In such cases, developers are encouraged to justify their estimates clearly and avoid lowering them just to meet unrealistic expectations. Lemon.io may also involve another developer to review the scope, and if a client’s expectations are consistently unrealistic, Lemon.io may choose not to proceed with the project.

If a time estimate turns out to be inaccurate on a Lemon.io project, the software engineer should inform the client as soon as possible and explain the reason, such as new requirements or unforeseen technical complexity. It is important to receive the client’s confirmation to proceed with additional hours before continuing the work.

If the incorrect estimate is fully due to the developer’s miscalculation and no new information was introduced, it is usually reasonable to discuss limiting billing to the originally agreed hours or slightly more. Each situation is handled individually based on the specific circumstances.

Yes, software engineers need to accept Lemon.io’s Terms and Conditions and sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with the client before starting cooperation.