Get paid by clients overseas as a US freelancer

Tunde Aladeloba

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Freelancers in the United States are not limited to serving American clients; they can also work with clients from other countries. Many international businesses actively seek US-based talent because they associate the US market with high-quality work, professionalism, and competitive expertise. This international demand means you have access to wider opportunities, higher-earning markets, and a more diverse range of projects.

Working with overseas clients also helps you build a globally competitive portfolio and increases your income stability throughout the year. The freelance market is global, and positioning yourself to work with international clients ensures you remain adaptable, profitable, and in demand.

Also read: Best platforms to receive freelance payments from the USA in Africa

Why US freelancers should work with international clients

Working with international clients allows you to tap into broader markets, elevate your earning power, and build a reputation that extends beyond the United States.

Earn in more currencies

Working with clients who pay in GBP, EUR, or AUD gives you access to markets with significantly stronger currency values than the US dollar. This automatically increases the real value of your work and helps you build higher, more sustainable income streams. For freelancers looking to scale, earning in premium currencies provides predictable financial growth and long-term professional leverage.

Reach a global client base

Expanding beyond the US market frees you from the limitations of local demand and seasonal slowdowns. Working overseas means you can connect with clients in regions where your skill set is rare, in demand, or valued at a premium. This broader reach increases your visibility, boosts your credibility, and positions you as a globally relevant professional.

Global portfolio

International projects expose you to diverse industries, creative expectations, and working styles. This helps you develop a portfolio that reflects global standards rather than a single-market perspective. Such diversity strengthens your professional positioning, impresses future clients, and showcases your ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver high-level work across cultural and geographic boundaries.

Steady income

Different regions operate on unique economic cycles, fiscal calendars, and peak work periods. By working with clients across multiple countries, you avoid seasonal dips in the US market and ensure more consistent cash flow. This global spread stabilises your freelance income, reduces reliance on any single economy, and creates a more predictable, year-round workload.

Also read: How to invoice clients in the USA as a freelancer in China

How to get paid by international clients as a US freelancer

Receiving payments from international clients requires methods that are fast, secure, and cost-effective.

International bank transfers

Many clients prefer to send payments directly to your US bank account through international wire transfers. It’s secure and widely accepted, but fees can be high depending on the sending country and currency. Transfers may also take several business days. This option works well for large invoices, but smaller payments can lose value due to conversion and processing charges.

Grey

Grey provides you with virtual international account details in USD, GBP, and EUR, allowing clients to pay you as if you had local bank accounts in those regions. This reduces fees, speeds up transfers, and gives you more control over currency conversion. It’s a convenient way to receive overseas payments without the usual complexity of traditional banking systems.

Paypal

PayPal is a widely recognised platform that allows clients to pay you quickly and securely from anywhere in the world. It supports multiple currencies, offers buyer and seller protection, and is convenient for smaller or recurring payments. While fees and conversion rates may apply, PayPal remains one of the simplest ways to receive international freelance income.

Wise

Wise provides low-cost international transfers with transparent exchange rates. Clients can send money directly to your US account while you avoid hidden fees and slow processing times. It’s particularly effective for freelancers who receive payments in multiple currencies regularly and want reliable, predictable transfer amounts.

Tips to consider before working with an international client

Working with international clients can be highly rewarding, but it requires care, professionalism, and clear communication.

  • Verify the client: Research their company, website, and LinkedIn profile. Check reviews and prior work to ensure legitimacy and avoid scams or unreliable projects.
  • Set clear communication: Agree on preferred channels, regular updates, and response times. Document important discussions to prevent misunderstandings and ensure both parties stay aligned.
  • Agree payment terms: Confirm the payment method, schedule, and invoicing format upfront. Clear terms protect your income and avoid delays or disputes later.
  • Clarify scope: Define deliverables, milestones, and revisions before starting. This avoids scope creep, manages expectations, and ensures the project is completed efficiently.

Steps to receiving your money with Grey from the USA

1. Create your Grey account

Go to grey.co or download the Grey app. Sign up and complete your identity verification to activate your account quickly.

2. Get your multicurrency account

Once verified, Grey provides you with multicurrency account details in USD, EU, and GBP, allowing clients to pay you directly.

3. Share your account with clients

Enter your Grey-provided account details on your invoicing platform or give them directly to your clients to receive payments safely and efficiently.

4. Manage and withdraw funds

Once your payment arrives, track it in the Grey app, convert to your preferred currency, and withdraw to your local bank securely.

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Simplify overseas payments

Freelancers in the USA must not forget that getting paid is just as important as being in high demand with global clients. Grey offers multi-currency accounts in USD, GBP, and EUR, letting you receive payments securely and efficiently.

Start using Grey today to simplify overseas payments.

Open a free Grey account to get startedJoin 1 million digital nomads

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