Across India, freelancers and remote workers are earning in GBP from global clients. From freelancers to Digital nomads, they’re powering the economy with international work. But receiving payments is still a major hurdle. Traditional banks take days, charge high fees, and offer poor exchange rates. As a result, a chunk of their hard-earned Pounds is lost in the process.

Grey offers a smarter solution, where Indians can receive GBP like a local, convert at competitive rates, and withdraw directly to their Indian bank accounts. It’s fast, transparent, and built for the modern Indian professional working with clients abroad.

Also read: How to create US and UK bank accounts as a migrant worker in India

Why would you need to receive GBP in India?

1. Freelancing: If you're working with UK-based clients or companies, they’ll likely pay you in GBP.
2. Business transactions: Exporters, consultants, or Indian vendors receiving payments from UK partners often get paid in Pounds.
3. Remittances: Indian residents with relatives in the UK might receive monthly support in GBP.
4. Tuition: Students returning from the UK or receiving scholarship payments may need to handle funds in Pounds.

Also read: Grey vs. local banks: The best way to exchange currency in India

Best platforms to receive GBP transfers in India

If you're in India and need to receive British Pounds (GBP), several platforms can help — but not all offer the same ease, cost, or speed. Here are four top options:

1. Grey: Grey provides you with a free UK bank account, allowing you to receive money like a local. You can convert your GBP at competitive rates and withdraw directly to your Indian bank account. The platform is user-friendly, with no hidden fees.

2. Wise: Wise offers a multi-currency account with GBP account details, letting you receive payments easily. It uses the real exchange rate and charges transparent, low fees, making it a great option for freelancers and remote workers.

3. Payoneer: Payoneer is designed primarily for businesses and freelancers and allows you to receive GBP and other currencies through virtual receiving accounts. However, it generally has higher fees than  platforms like Grey and Wise.

4. Western Union: Western Union is ideal for quick cash pickups or direct bank transfers. It's widely available across India but often includes higher fees and less favourable exchange rates than digital alternatives.

Also read: How to avoid scams when sending money to India

What to know about exchange rates and fees when receiving GBP

Receiving GBP in India is more than just getting paid; it’s about maximising what you receive after fees and conversion. Here's what to consider:

• Exchange rate markups: Traditional banks and some platforms charge a markup over the real (mid-market) exchange rate. That means you get less INR for every GBP.
• Transfer & Withdrawal Fees: Services like Payoneer and Western Union can charge up to 3–5% in fees.
• Speed of Transfer: Some platforms take up to 3–5 business days. Grey processes conversions and withdrawals faster.

How to  receive GBP into your Indian bank account

1. Create a Grey account
   • Visit Grey or download the Grey mobile app.
   • Sign up using your email and verify your identity (KYC).
2. Get your GBP account
   • Once verified, go to the “Accounts” tab.
   • Select ‘Open New Account’ and choose GBP.
   • Grey will generate a UK account number and sort code in your name.
3. Receive GBP from the UK
   • Share your GBP account details with your UK employer, client, or sender.
   • Funds will be deposited directly into your Grey wallet.
4. Convert GBP to INR
   • Once you receive the funds, tap ‘Convert’ and choose INR.
   • Grey uses competitive exchange rates with no hidden markups.
5. Withdraw to your Indian bank account
   • Enter your Indian bank details and withdraw the converted amount.
   • Transfers are typically processed quickly, often within the same day.

Conclusion

As more Indians tap into global opportunities, the way to receive and manage international payments needs to evolve. Whether you’re freelancing, consulting, or building a business with UK clients, every rupee counts. Grey offers a modern, reliable alternative to outdated banking systems, giving you control, speed, and transparency in one place.

Create your free Grey account today and experience the smarter way to receive GBP in India.

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