Freelancing is gaining strong momentum across China, with many professionals in design, software development, writing, translation, and digital marketing choosing to work with international clients. The United States is one of the most popular markets for Chinese freelancers thanks to its high demand for remote talent and strong currency.

However, while securing clients abroad is a win, sending professional invoices and receiving payments in USD can be challenging. With Grey, freelancers in China can create invoices in USD, send them to clients in the U.S., and receive international payments easily

Also read: Fastest and easiest ways to receive USD in China

What happens when you don’t send invoices

Delayed payments

Without a formal invoice, clients may delay payment because they lack essential details—like service breakdowns, due dates, and payment instructions. In some cases, they may even forget altogether, forcing you to chase payments.

Lack of professionalism

Sending random payment requests or informal messages instead of an invoice can make you seem unprofessional. For overseas clients, especially those in the U.S. or Europe, a proper invoice shows you’re serious and reliable—just like a business should be.

Difficulty tracking earnings

Without invoices, it's harder to track your income accurately. This becomes a real problem when you need to report earnings for tax purposes, apply for loans, or prove your income to potential clients or platforms.

Also read: How to handle foreign income taxes as a remote worker

Disputes

No invoice means no clear record of what was agreed upon, such as service type, cost, or deadlines. This makes it easier for misunderstandings or disputes to arise later, especially with clients in different time zones and legal systems.

How to create an invoice using Grey from China

Grey provides an easy-to-use invoicing feature tailored for freelancers working with international clients. Here's how to use it:

Step 1: Sign up and verify your Grey account

Go to Grey’s website and create an account. After registering, complete identity verification with a valid Chinese ID or passport.

Step 2: Set up your US bank account

Once verified, Grey assigns you a virtual USD account. You’ll include this account on your invoices so your U.S. clients can pay you like they would a local contractor.

Step 3: Navigate to the invoicing tool

Log in to your Grey dashboard and click on "Invoice" in the menu bar.

Click “Create New Invoice”.

Fill in the required fields:

Step 4: Preview and send

Click "Proceed to Preview" to double-check your invoice. You can:

• Save it as a draft
• Edit before finalising
• Send directly to the client via email

Once your client receives the invoice and makes payment, Grey notifies you when the funds arrive.

Simplify global payments with Grey

For freelancers in China working with U.S. clients, getting paid shouldn’t be complicated. Grey makes it easy to send professional invoices, receive payments in USD, and withdraw your earnings seamlessly. It saves time, reduces payment friction, and lets you focus on delivering great work—not worrying about transfers or exchange rates.

If you’re looking to grow your freelance business internationally, sign up for Grey today and take control of your global income.

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