Ask any Indonesian freelancer who’s ever received a payment in US dollars. They’ll probably smile before they talk about how fulfilling it is. For them, the difference in earning potential becomes clear almost instantly. For example, a project worth Rp 500,000 locally could earn them $100 when working with an international client.

Behind these smiles, is a nagging problem: managing this hard-earned money. What no one really tells you is that while getting paid in USD is exciting, managing that money isn’t always as straightforward. Between high fees, frustrating delays, and account limitations, many freelancers who earn USD have issues with proper spending and saving.

So, how are smart freelancers in Indonesia getting around these problems?

Let’s break it down.

Why are more Indonesian freelancers getting paid in USD?

The freelance scene in Indonesia has exploded in recent years. More people are joining global platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com, and Toptal. Many of their clients are based in the United States or Europe and often pay in USD.

For Indonesian freelancers, USD payments open doors. This way, they can charge more competitively, avoid the unpredictability of exchange rate dips during invoicing, and build a truly global client base.

Also read: The best digital nomad jobs to earn from anywhere in Indonesia

The problem? Managing your USD earnings isn’t always easy

Getting paid in USD is one thing. Actually using that money without losing a chunk of it to fees or delays is another. Here’s what many freelancers deal with:

• No access to a proper USD account: Most traditional Indonesian banks don’t offer easy access to foreign currency accounts unless you’re a business or willing to go through extensive paperwork.
• Currency conversion fees: Even when you can receive USD, converting it to Indonesian rupiah (IDR) often has bad rates and hidden fees.
• Delayed payments: Some platforms process payments slowly, even longer if the bank on your end isn’t optimised for international transfers.
• Inconsistent income management: Without the right tools, it’s tough to track how much you’re earning, how much you’re losing to conversion, and how much you actually get to spend.

Also read: How to receive payments from Upwork in Indonesia in 2025

How Indonesian freelancers are managing USD smarter

To sidestep these issues, many freelancers are getting more strategic with receiving and managing international income.

• Holding USD until rates are favourable: Instead of converting immediately, they wait until the rates are better before turning USD into IDR.
• Separating spending: Some keep USD aside for international subscriptions (like design tools or courses) and only convert what’s needed locally.
• Using platforms that give them control: They’re ditching traditional banking limitations and exploring modern tools that properly support cross-border freelance income.

One platform many are turning to: Grey

Grey gives Indonesian freelancers a more innovative way to receive, hold, and convert their USD income. With Grey, you get access to a virtual USD account without needing to be in the US.

Here’s how it helps:

• Free USD account: Instantly receive USD from clients or freelance platforms without hassle.
• No forced conversions: Hold your USD until you’re ready to convert; no pressure, no automatic deductions.
• Low-cost currency exchange: Convert USD to IDR at better rates than most traditional banks.
• Quick withdrawals: Once you’ve converted your funds, you can seamlessly withdraw them to your local Indonesian bank account.
• Multi-currency support: If you work with clients in Europe or the UK, Grey also provides bank accounts in EUR and GBP.

Also read: Top travel destinations in Indonesia for summer vacation

How to start receiving USD with Grey in Indonesia

Setting up your Grey account is straightforward. Here’s how:

1. Sign up at grey.co or download the Grey app.
2. Complete the verification by submitting a valid ID and proof of address. This process helps keep your account secure and compliant.
3. You can access your virtual USD account in minutes. You’ll receive official bank details you can share with clients or add to platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
4. Start receiving payments, manage your earnings, and convert to rupiah whenever you need.

Make the most of your freelance income

Freelancing is just as much about getting paid as about keeping what you earn and making it work for your life. By being intentional with how you manage your USD payments, you’re building a solid financial foundation that allows you to work with clients from anywhere and live comfortably at home.

Grey gives you the tools to make that happen.

Create your Grey account today or download the app to enjoy inclusive global banking designed to carry your dreams across borders.

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