With the internet blurring borders and distance between countries, today’s work sector now allows global freelancing, where you can work with clients and companies across borders. While the digital freelancing world continues to expand, receiving international payments remains a common challenge. Freelancers and digital nomads face hassles like exorbitant transaction fees, unfair currency conversion rates, and platform restrictions that complicate the payment process.

Fortunately, emerging global payment solutions are bridging the gap between clients and freelancers by simplifying international transactions. Wise, Grey, and Payoneer are three services that have been the go-to options for freelancers and remote workers globally.

This article compares these platforms and recommends the best choice based on ease of use, fees, speed, and flexibility.

Also read: How to budget as a freelancer and manage irregular income

Considerations for receiving international freelance payments

Considering Wise, Grey and Payoneer are great options for receiving international freelance payment, it might be challenging to select one.

Here are some major points you should consider when picking an international freelance payment solution.

1. Where your clients are based

Choose a platform that supports receiving payments from your clients’ countries and currencies.

2. Your region’s availability

Ensure the platform offers full functionality (receiving, conversion, withdrawal) in your country.

3. Your freelance workflow

If you work via freelancing platforms like Fiverr and Upwork, opt for a payment solution that integrates seamlessly with the platform.

4. Currency conversion fees

Always check the exchange rates and markup.

5. Speed of withdrawal

Check out how fast you’d get your payment, especially if you are big on swift transactions.

6. Fee structure

Look beyond headline fees, ensuring the pricing is simple and transparent.

Also read: Best mobile banking apps for freelancers

Receiving international freelance payments: Wise vs Grey vs Payoneer

Let’s dive into the details of each international payment platform, carefully examining their key features and limitations.

1. Grey

Grey is an emerging international payment solution that offers virtual international bank accounts, simple currency conversion, and local withdrawals. Grey supports multiple currencies and allows freelancers to receive payments in USDC. It aims to streamline cross-border payments for freelancers, remote workers, and digital entrepreneurs.

Key features:

• Virtual bank accounts in USD, GBP, and EUR
• Ability to receive direct payments from international clients
• Quick conversion to local currencies at competitive rates
• Fast withdrawals to local bank accounts (in supported countries)
• User-friendly mobile and web apps
• Transparent and low fees
• Integration with freelancing platforms
• Virtual USD debit card
• Invoicing automation

Limitations:

• Unavailability in some countries
• Limited currency support

Also read: The easiest way to receive international payments as a freelancer

Grey is tailored to simplify international payments for freelancers. Its simple interface, competitive exchange rates, and fast withdrawals make it a strong alternative for anyone looking to receive international payments directly and affordably.

2. Wise

Wise is used for international transfers, offering transparent fees and mid-market exchange rates. Freelancers can use Wise’s multi-currency account to receive payments in several currencies, hold balances, and withdraw to local bank accounts.

Key features:

• Multi-currency account with local account details in USD, GBP, EUR, and more
• Mid-market exchange rate (no hidden markup)
• Transparent and competitive fees
• Transfers to over 80 countries
• Intuitive web and mobile interfaces

Limitations:

• Limited availability of some currency accounts, depending on the country
• Account verification can be strict or delayed in some regions
• Not directly integrated with freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr
• Some countries may face restrictions in receiving certain currencies

Wise is best suited for freelancers with clients in multiple countries and who want complete control over currency conversion and international transfers.

3. Payoneer

Payoneer is one of the most widely used payment solutions among freelancers, especially those who work with major platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal. It offers receiving accounts in several major currencies and supports prepaid cards and local withdrawals.

Key features:

• Virtual receiving accounts in USD, GBP, EUR, and others
• Direct integration with leading freelance platforms
• Option to withdraw to local bank accounts
• Prepaid Mastercard for direct spending
• Widely available

Limitations:

• Currency conversion fees are typically high (2–3.5 per cent)
• Annual card fees and potential inactivity fees
• Slower withdrawal times in some cases

Payoneer is ideal for freelancers who primarily work through established platforms or need the convenience of a globally accepted prepaid card.

Receiving international freelance payments

If you’re a freelancer working with international clients directly or through freelancing platforms, it is essential to have a reliable global payment solution to manage your earnings. Grey offers a practical, affordable, and fast payment solution to freelancers worldwide. It bridges the gap between freelancers and their clients by ensuring ease, low fees, and features specifically designed for local users.

Choose Grey for seamless payment from international clients, competitive exchange rates

Sign up today on Grey to enjoy swift and seamless international payments.

‍