How international clients usually pay freelancers in Ghana

Ghana is among the leading African countries attracting international clients to work with freelancers. From creatives to tech professionals, Ghanaian freelancers own their work and don’t allow time zone differences to become a challenge.

Many of these opportunities come through platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and other global freelance marketplaces. But beyond securing international gigs, freelancers face one important question: what is the most reliable way to get paid?

Just like other freelancers around the world, Ghanaians need safe and efficient payment options. This article shows how international clients pay freelancers in Ghana, and what you must put in place to ensure you get paid smoothly and on time.

Also read: How Fiverr freelancers in Ghana can receive payments easily in 2025

How Ghanaian freelancers receive payments from international clients

Multicurrency accounts

Multicurrency accounts enable Ghanaian freelancers to receive payments in foreign currencies such as USD, GBP, and EUR. This makes it easier to work with international clients without immediate currency conversion. They are popular because they reduce transfer fees, speed up payments, and give freelancers flexibility to hold, convert, or withdraw funds when exchange rates are favourable.

• Grey: Grey helps Ghanaian freelancers receive USD, GBP, and EUR easily, offering fast settlements, low fees, virtual foreign accounts, and seamless withdrawals to local banks.
• Wise: Wise allows freelancers receive international payments with transparent fees and real exchange rates, supporting multiple currencies, though setup and verification can take longer.
• Geegpay: Geegpay provides virtual dollar accounts for freelancers, enabling international payments and quick withdrawals, but with fewer supported currencies compared to other multicurrency platforms

Also read: How Ghanaian creators are earning and saving in multiple currencies

Bank transfers

International bank transfers are a common payment method, especially for corporate clients. Payments are sent directly to a Ghanaian bank account but usually take about three business days to reflect. While secure and suitable for larger amounts, the process often involves higher fees, exchange rate charges, and detailed banking information, which can slow things down.

• Speed & fees: International bank transfers typically take up to three business days, with processing fees and exchange rate charges that can reduce the final amount received.
• Accurate details: Correct account numbers, SWIFT codes, and beneficiary details are integral to avoid delays, failed transfers, or additional charges during international payments.

Mobile money

Mobile money payments are ideal for smaller transactions and quick settlements. Some international clients use platforms that allow TapTap transfers directly to MTN MoMo or Vodafone Cash. This method is fast, convenient, and widely accessible, making it a preferred option for short-term projects, one-off payments, or clients who need a simple, instant solution.

Payoneer

Payoneer is widely used by international freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr to pay Ghanaian freelancers. It allows users to receive payments in foreign currencies and withdraw directly to local bank accounts or use a Payoneer card. It’s trusted, reliable, and especially convenient for freelancers working with multiple global clients.

USDT

USDT is gaining steady acceptance among freelancers working with international clients, especially for fast, borderless payments. Its stability makes it attractive for avoiding currency volatility and high transfer fees. In Ghana, peer-to-peer USDT trading continues to grow, with weekly volumes estimated between $8–12 million. This rising activity reflects increasing trust, ease of cash conversion, and growing awareness among freelancers seeking flexible payment alternatives.

• Yellow Card enables freelancers receive USDT and other crypto, convert instantly to cedis, and withdraw to banks or mobile money with ease, nationwide availability.
• Binance supports P2P USDT trading, allowing freelancers to get paid globally, trade with verified merchants, and enjoy competitive rates, high liquidity, and fast local settlement options.

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

Payment essentials for Ghanaian freelancers

Getting paid consistently as a freelancer goes beyond landing international clients. You must put a few essential systems in place to avoid delays, disputes, and missed payments.

• Active bank account: Maintain an active local bank account that can receive international transfers. Ensure your account is enabled for foreign remittances and linked correctly to any freelance or payment platforms.
• Invoice: A clear invoice outlines your services, amount due, currency, payment method, and deadline. It helps clients pay faster, reduces confusion, and creates a professional record for follow-ups and accountability.
• Contract: A contract defines scope, timelines, payment terms, and dispute resolution. It protects both parties, builds trust, and ensures clients understand expectations before work begins or payments are released.

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Smart payments with Grey

Ghanaian freelancers are securing more international jobs than ever, and getting paid shouldn’t be the hardest part of the work. As global opportunities grow, having a fast and reliable payment solution is essential. Grey makes this easy by offering secure transactions, quick settlements, and excellent conversion rates. Sign up on Grey or download the app to start receiving international payments smartly and stress-free.

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