Answer
Yes, remote work for clients or employers outside Uruguay can be acceptable income for permanent residency. A foreign client or employer does not make the income unsuitable if its regularity, basis, and connection to the applicant can be demonstrated.
Usually, the important evidence is a contract, certificates or invoices, payments, bank deposits, and a clear pattern of regular income. If the contract permits work from Uruguay, it reduces the risk of inconsistency. Transferring money to a local account can help establish a money trail, but does not itself change the foreign nature of the work.
For a freelancer or contractor, local registration of the activity also matters if it is required. Several stable clients are more persuasive than a one-off engagement. It is best to set out income by month in advance: who paid, for what, how much, and where the money was received.