As a Nigerian freelancer who has worked with international clients for years, I’ve had my fair share of struggles with cross-border payments and exchange rates. From using Grey to Wise, and hearing first-hand experiences from colleagues who rely on Payoneer, I’ve seen how fees and transfer speeds can make or break your earnings. One thing that stands out for many freelancers is the Grey exchange rate, which often determines how much you actually get in naira after every transaction.

In this piece, I’ll compare Grey fees in Nigeria with Geegpay, Payoneer, and Wise, looking closely at conversion rates and transaction charges. The goal is simple: to help Nigerian freelancers decide which platform offers the best value for their hard-earned money.

Read also: Receiving dollar payments in Nigeria: Best platforms and what to avoid

Why should Nigerian freelancers compare the fees on payment platform?

• Maximise earnings: Even small differences in exchange rates or fees can add up over multiple projects, meaning more money stays in your pocket.
• Plan cash flow: Knowing which service takes less, allows you to predict exactly how much you’ll receive, making budgeting and reinvesting in your business easier.
• Stay competitive: Understanding fees helps you price your services accurately without undercharging to cover payment losses.

Grey vs Wise vs Payoneer vs Geegpay: comparing fees for Nigerian freelancers

As a freelancer in Nigeria, comparing payment platforms isn’t just about preference, it’s about keeping more of what you earn through better rates and lower fees.

Grey

Grey has been my go-to platform for client payments, and honestly, it’s the one I recommend most. Withdrawals cost just ₦35, deposits attract 0.5% + ₦60, and payouts are instant. What really makes Grey stand out is its competitive exchange rate, which closely mirrors the market rate, ensuring I get great value for my earnings. For Nigerian freelancers, it strikes the perfect balance between speed, transparency, and affordability. There are no hidden charges or delays, just smooth payments.

Read also: How Nigerian freelancers maximise their foreign earnings

Wise

Wise is a solid option, especially if you love transparency. It charges 0.85% for Euro transfers and 0.7% for Pounds sent to Nigeria. Its biggest strength is using the real mid-market rate, meaning what you see is exactly what you get. While transactions can take a bit longer compared to Grey, Wise remains a dependable choice for freelancers who prioritise clarity and consistent international conversions.

Payoneer

Payoneer is popular among my freelance friends, especially those handling big international contracts. It charges up to 1% (minimum $4) for Payoneer-to-Payoneer transfers and up to 3% for withdrawals to Nigerian bank accounts. The platform is well-established and secure, though some freelancers prefer newer options with simpler, lower fees. Still, Payoneer’s global reach and brand reliability make it a strong option for receiving client payments worldwide.

Geegpay

Geegpay is a promising platform tailored for Nigerian freelancers. It charges 0.7% for both Pounds and Euro transfers, with a minimum fee of 1.5 EUR or GBP, and ₦12 for local withdrawals. The experience is smooth, and rates are fairly competitive. It’s a great alternative if you want flexibility.

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Why Nigerian freelancers are choosing Grey for international payment

Beyond the fair fees and strong exchange rates, many Nigerian freelancers like me choose Grey for other practical reasons that make everyday transactions easier and faster:

• Instant payouts: Payments reflect within minutes, saving the stress of waiting days for funds to clear.
• Multiple accounts: You can get USD, GBP, and EUR accounts, making it easier to receive from global clients.
• Safe and secure: Grey uses advanced security measures to protect transactions and user data, giving freelancers peace of mind.

For freelancers in Nigeria, every naira counts, and choosing the right payment platform can make a real difference in how much you actually earn. After comparing rates, speed, and reliability, Grey stands out as a solid choice for anyone working with international clients. It’s fast, transparent, and built for the way freelancers work today.

Sign up on Grey or download the app to start receiving your payments seamlessly

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