How to receive payments from Upwork in Nigeria in 2025

Tunde Aladeloba

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The gig economy is thriving in Nigeria, with platforms like Upwork connecting skilled freelancers to global clients. However, a common challenge remains: how to efficiently receive payments in Nigeria. With over 45% of Nigerian internet users engaged in remote work or freelancing, finding cost-effective and reliable payment solutions is essential. Grey, a multi-currency account platform, is revolutionising how freelancers handle their payments, offering speed, transparency, and ease.

Here’s how to receive your Upwork payments in Nigeria seamlessly in 2025.

Also read: The best digital nomad jobs to earn from anywhere in Nigeria

Understanding how Upwork payments work

Upwork provides multiple payment options for freelancers, including:

  • Direct to local bank: Payments are converted to Naira (NGN) and sent directly to your bank account, but the conversion rates may not be favourable, and processing can take up to five business days.
  • PayPal and Payoneer: Popular for freelancers but often involve high fees and may take longer to withdraw funds to local accounts.
  • Wire transfers: Reliable for large sums but usually involve large banking fees and delays.

While these methods work, they can reduce your earnings due to fees and poor exchange rates. That’s why many Nigerian freelancers are turning to Grey.

Also read: How to receive US Dollars in Nigeria with Grey

How to use Grey to receive Upwork payments in Nigeria

Grey offers a streamlined way to manage international payments, making it perfect for freelancers in Nigeria.

  1. Download the Grey app or visit the website.
  2. Sign up and complete verification with your ID.
  3. Get your international bank details and start managing your earnings like a pro.

How to link your Grey account to Upwork

Grey makes connecting to Upwork hassle-free:

  1. Log into Upwork and go to Settings > Get Paid.
  2. Select 'Add a Payment Method' and choose the type of bank account that matches your Grey account (e.g., USD, GBP, or EUR).
  3. Input your Grey bank details and confirm.
  4. Select the account type(Individual Checking) and enter the routing number(ACH routing).
  5. Enter your account number and select Add Bank Account.
  6. Confirm and start receiving payments directly to your Grey wallet.

Benefits of using Grey for Upwork payments

Grey is designed to cater to the unique needs of Nigerian freelancers. Here’s why it’s the ideal choice:

  • Low fees, better rates: Avoid high conversion and transfer fees while enjoying competitive exchange rates.
  • Fast transactions: Receive payments faster than traditional bank transfers.
  • Multi-currency: Hold and manage USD, GBP, and EUR, and convert to Naira (NGN) only when needed.

Get started with Grey today

With over 122 million Nigerians online and an increasing number turning to freelancing, having a robust payment solution is non-negotiable. Grey simplifies global transactions, helping freelancers maximise their earnings while staying compliant with local regulations.

Sign up for a free Grey account and join thousands of Nigerian freelancers who trust Grey to manage their payments seamlessly in 2025.

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