What it costs to live in 6 nomad hotspots around the world

Few things are as frustrating as waiting for money you’ve already earned. You’ve delivered the work, the client has paid, and you’re counting on that money to hit your account, only to realise your payment platform is taking forever. Suddenly, your bills, rent, or weekend plans are on hold because of a “processing delay.”

If you’ve ever been in this situation, you know it can feel helpless. However, with the right steps, you can take control, troubleshoot the problem, and ensure you’re not stuck waiting indefinitely.

Let’s break down exactly what to do when your payment platform drags its feet.

Also read: Global accounts vs traditional banks: What remote workers should know

1. First, don’t panic. Check the expected payout window

One of the most common mistakes freelancers make is assuming their money is “late” when on the contrary, the payment platform is following its regular payout cycle. Every platform has its own rhythm, and it’s worth learning it like the back of your hand.

Take PayPal, for instance. Transfers to your bank usually take between one and five business days. Upwork doesn’t pay you right away either. Once a client approves your work, there’s a five-day security hold before the money hits your balance. Fiverr even takes it a step further. Earnings sit in clearance for 14 days after you deliver (seven if you’ve reached top-rated status).

It might be frustrating, but this is how the system works. Before worrying, always double-check the payout windows listed in the platform’s FAQ or support section.

Here’s a smart move: keep a small “payout calendar.” Set reminders for each platform you use so you always know when to expect your earnings. That way, you can plan your expenses around real timelines, instead of stressing over money that may not be late.

Also read: The ultimate guide to using virtual accounts for global payments in 2025

2. Check for account or compliance holds

One of the most common reasons your money may not land sooner is the platform’s compliance rules. These platforms run on strict rules, and the moment something looks unusual, they’re quick to hit pause. Think of it as a safety lock to protect you and them. However, it can feel frustrating when your earnings get stuck in limbo.

Sometimes, the issue is as simple as missing paperwork. If you haven’t completed KYC (Know Your Customer) verification, like uploading your ID, business registration documents, or proof of address, your account might be flagged until you do. Other times, it’s less obvious. A larger-than-usual payment can trigger fraud checks, or something as small as changing your linked bank account or payout method may cause the system to double-check your details before letting funds through.

The first thing to do is log in and check your notifications or inbox. Most platforms are clear about what’s holding your money. They’ll usually prompt you to upload documents, confirm your identity, or re-verify your bank details. Once you’ve cleared these compliance checks, your payouts typically start flowing smoothly again, and you’re less likely to face future delays.

Also read: Why KYC is required to use global accounts (and how to do it easily)

3. Contact your bank

Not every delay is the platform’s fault. Sometimes, the holdup happens once the money has landed in your bank’s system. Banks can flag or pause international transfers for all sorts of reasons: maybe the amount looks out of the ordinary compared to your usual transactions, maybe the sender is from a region they consider “high risk,” or maybe they just need to double-check compliance boxes like anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

It’s frustrating, but it’s also part of how banks protect themselves and their customers. A quick nudge can often get things moving. Instead of saying something vague like “My money hasn’t arrived,” give them everything they’ll need to trace the transaction quickly. Include your transaction ID or reference number, the exact date, the amount and currency, and the payout method you used.

The more precise you are, the less time they’ll spend searching and the faster you’ll get answers. Adding screenshots of your receipt or payment history is a bonus. It gives them visual proof to work with.

Ask directly if the funds are sitting in a review queue. If they are, confirming a few details with you, like who sent the payment and what it’s for, might be all they need to release it.

By proactively checking in, you can avoid the stress of waiting days for something that could’ve been cleared up in a single phone call or email.

Also read: Receiving dollar payments in Nigeria: Best platforms and what to avoid

4. Build a financial cushion

No one gets excited about putting money aside instead of spending it on a new gadget, a night out, or that trip you’ve been eyeing. But here’s the truth: a financial cushion is your lifeline as a remote worker.

Payouts get delayed. Clients disappear. Platforms take longer than expected to release your funds. If you’re living pay cheque to pay cheque, even a one-week delay can spiral into stress over rent, bills, or groceries. That’s why having an emergency buffer is non-negotiable.

You can start with with5% of each payout, then work up to 10% as things stabilise, then go higher over time, you’ll have enough to cover at least six months of basic expenses. With that safety net in place, you won’t panic the next time a payment drags. Instead, you’ll have breathing room to focus on your work and clients, rather than scrambling to cover essentials.

Also read: How safe is your money with global virtual accounts?

5. Know when to escalate

There’s a difference between being patient and being taken for granted. If the official processing window has long passed, you’ve followed up multiple times, and you’re still stuck with radio silence, it may be time to move beyond polite reminders.

Start with the platform’s formal dispute process. Almost every payment provider has one — even if it’s buried in the help centre. Document every email, chat, or ticket number you’ve raised so far; a clear paper trail often pushes your case forward faster.

If that still doesn’t get things moving, don’t underestimate the power of visibility. Companies that ignore inboxes often sit up quickly when tagged on social media, especially platforms like X (formerly Twitter) or LinkedIn, where their reputation is on show. A professional but straightforward call-out can put your issue at the top of their priority list.

For freelancers or businesses dealing with larger sums, you may also want to explore professional help. Depending on your country, that could mean contacting a local financial regulatory body, consulting with a lawyer, or even leaning on community groups where others share similar experiences.

At the end of the day, delays shouldn’t be normalised. You’ve done the work and deserve to be paid on time.

Also read: Why Brazilian online entrepreneurs need virtual bank accounts

Payment delays can be stressful, especially when you’re counting on that money for rent, bills, or simply keeping your work-life balance in check. The more informed and prepared you are, the less power these hiccups have over your financial stability.

One real game-changer is having a system that puts you in charge, where payments are faster, currency conversion is seamless, and you’re aren’t stuck waiting.

That’s precisely what Grey was built for. With global accounts in USD, EUR, and GBP, instant currency swaps, and tools designed for cross-border payments, Grey helps freelancers and businesses cut through the usual roadblocks and access their money when it matters most.

Create your free Grey account today or download the app for more secure and timely payments.

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Working from abroad can be an incredible experience. You can explore new cities, meet new people, and get a fresh perspective on life. In addition, it’s an opportunity to help the people back home and sometimes, build businesses.

In 2024, the World Bank estimated that global remittances to low and middle-income countries reached over $650 billion, with workers abroad making up the bulk of that flow. Challenges like high fees, poor exchange rates, and unpredictable delays often disrupt that flow.

Here’s how you can manage those challenges and keep your remittances smooth, affordable, and stress-free, so you can focus on your work and life abroad without worrying about money transfers.

Also read: How to protect your funds while travelling abroad

Challenges of sending money while abroad

Living and working abroad is exciting, but sometimes, what should be a quick, straightforward transfer often leaves much to be desired.

Here are some of the biggest pain points remote workers and expats face:

1. High transfer fees: Traditional banks and many remittance services take a sizeable cut, sometimes as much as 5–10% of your transfer. That’s money that could have gone straight to your loved ones.
2. Poor exchange rates: Even a small difference in the foreign exchange rate can add up to a significant loss on larger transfers. Sometimes, the “bank rate” you’re offered is far worse than the real market rate.
3. Slow processing times: While you can send an email instantly from anywhere in the world, an international wire transfer can still take several business days to clear. For urgent payments, that delay can be stressful.
4. Limited payout networks: If your recipient lives in a country with fewer banking or payout options, they may have to travel far or wait longer to collect funds, adding more time and inconvenience.
5. Hidden costs: Some providers apply receiving charges, intermediary bank fees, or mandatory conversion fees that you only discover after the transfer.

Also read: A freelancer’s guide to avoiding payment scams online

How can you manage remittances effectively?

With the right combination of planning and modern payment tools, you can send money across borders quickly, affordably, and with far fewer headaches. Here are a few tips that can help:

1. Map your routes before you send

Not all transfer paths are created equal. Bank wire, fintech transfer, card payout, and mobile money each have different speeds, fees, and success rates by corridor. Do a quick A/B test with small amounts to see which route lands fastest and cheapest for your destination.

2. Time your transfers with intention

FX moves daily. If you’re paid in a strong currency (e.g., USD/EUR) and sending to a weaker one, batching and converting on favourable days can add up. A nice hack is to set a target rate, and only convert when it’s at or above that line. When in doubt, split transfers, convert some now, hold some to hedge.

3. Avoid double conversions

For example, converting USD to EUR to KES means paying two spreads. Whenever possible, receive the currency you earn and send it in the currency your recipient needs with a single, transparent conversion.

4. Match the payout method to the recipient

Speed, convenience, and cost vary by recipient. A parent may prefer a direct bank credit, while a contractor might want mobile money for instant access. Ask what works for them, then optimise for that rail.

5. Keep a remittance buffer

If your pay fluctuates, hold a small cushion in the sending currency to avoid forced conversions on a bad FX day. Even 2–4 weeks of average transfers can protect you from swings.

6. Prioritise security and compliance

Stick to regulated platforms, complete KYC, and use two-factor authentication. If a service can’t tell you where your money is in the flow, that’s a red flag.

7. Choose a platform built for global workers

You want a fast and easy-to-use platform that works where your recipients live. A good example is Grey.

Also read: How to get paid as a creator on social media from anywhere in the world

With the right tools, you can support your loved ones from anywhere without any issues.

Create your Grey account today or download the app to enjoy inclusive global banking designed to carry your dreams across borders.

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If you are among the millions of expatriates working across the Middle East, we get how hard you work to build a better life for yourself and for the family you’ve left behind. Sending money home is how parents cover school fees, relatives pay medical bills, and entire households stay afloat. It’s a big responsibility, and making sure your hard-earned money gets home safely (without losing too much on the way) makes all the difference.

Remittances are a lifeline, and for those of us earning or saving in stronger currencies like USD, EUR, or GBP, choosing the right way to send money can mean saving hundreds, or even thousands, over the course of a year.

What the remittance landscape looks like today

The Middle East, especially the Gulf states like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, are some of the top sources of remittances worldwide. In 2024 alone, global remittances are estimated at more than 900 billion US dollars, and a great share of that came from expatriates living in this region.

Also read: How to create a foreign currency account in the Middle East and North Africa

How most expats send money home

If you’re living and working in the Middle East, you probably have already tried a few different ways to send money back home, some more convenient (and cheaper) than others.

• Money exchange houses

You’ll find these everywhere, especially in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. They’re still the go-to for many expats who like dealing in cash or prefer the face-to-face experience. But between the fees and exchange rate markups, they’re not always the best deal, especially if you're converting from USD, EUR, or GBP.

• Mobile remittance apps

Platforms like Grey, Wise, Remitly, Western Union, and WorldRemit are popular with tech-savvy expats. They’re fast, easy to use, and usually more transparent about what you’re actually paying. This option often makes life easier if you’re juggling long hours or living far from an exchange centre.

• Bank transfers

Still common, but rarely the most cost-effective. Transfers can take several days, and banks often charge higher fees and offer less competitive exchange rates. Plus, the process isn’t always as smooth as you’d hope.

• Cash pickup and prepaid cards

Useful when your family doesn’t have access to a bank account or needs the money urgently. But the convenience usually comes at a higher cost, and not every location offers these services reliably.

Breaking down the real cost of remittances

So, how much are you really spending to send money home?

The cost of remittances can quietly add up, especially if you’re sending money regularly. A few extra dollars in fees here and less-than-ideal rates there might not seem like much at first, but over time, it can mean hundreds lost. Let’s break down what the most common options actually cost today:

• Banks are the most expensive, with fees averaging 11–14% per $200. Transfers can also take up to five business days.
• Exchange houses charge around 5–5.5% and generally process transfers faster (often same day), with flat fees on popular corridors.
• Online banking platforms often charge 2.8–4.8% (sometimes lower for first-time users or regular transfers). Speedy, transparent, and often the best value when sending from currencies like USD or EUR.

You may also like: Benefits of online global bank accounts for remote workers in the Middle East and North Africa

Always watch out for hidden costs

It’s easy to get caught up in “zero fee” offers, but always check the real cost of sending money, including the transfer fee and the currency conversion rate (which can vary significantly)

Some platforms quietly take a margin on the exchange rate, so you receive less than expected on the other end.

To get a clearer picture, use tools that let you track current exchange rates and margins in real time. It’s a quick way to see how much of your money actually makes it home.

Having a multi-currency account helps

If you’re earning or saving in USD, EUR, or GBP, using a multi-currency account makes it easier and cheaper to manage your money abroad.

You can:

• Hold your money in a strong currency without converting until you're ready.
• Transfer locally in your currency of choice or convert at more favourable rates when the time is right.

Multi-currency accounts also present smart ways to keep your savings stable while living in countries with different local currencies, especially if you're sending money to multiple family members or accounts in different countries.

You may also like: Best virtual banking solutions for freelancers in the Middle East

Little things that make a big difference

• Skip weekend transfers: Rates are often worse when markets are closed, so if it’s not urgent, wait for a weekday.
• Keep an eye on the rates: If your home currency is weaker, it might be a good time to send more and get better value.
• Use local options when you can: Mobile wallets or local banks (like M-Pesa, UPI, or GCash) can be cheaper and quicker. Grey integrates easily with Mobile Money.
• Have your details ready: Double-check account info and add a clear reason for the transfer. It helps avoid hiccups.
• Stay safe: Stick with trusted services, track your transfer, and never share tracking codes publicly.

What you should know about some countries

In the UAE, most expats now rely on exchange houses or digital apps. Some banks that previously offered free transfers have introduced flat fees in 2025, prompting a shift towards newer digital-first providers like Grey, Remitly, Wise, and WorldRemit.

In Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, the remittance landscape is similar, with digital tools growing fast and fees remaining in line with those in the UAE.

In countries like Lebanon, Syria and Yemen, transfers can be more difficult due to extra compliance checks and limits on cash payouts.

Related article: How to open a virtual bank account as a freelancer in the UAE

Money doesn’t have to be the hardest part

Being away from home comes with enough challenges, and sending money back shouldn’t be one of them. You can easily use Grey to hold, send, and convert USD, EUR, or GBP, without chasing down exchange houses or worrying about bank delays.

You get fair rates, low fees, and transfers that actually land when they’re supposed to. Whether it’s rent, school fees, or just a regular “I’ve got you” transfer to family, send money abroad easier.

Open a free Grey account to send, receive, and convert money across borders without the usual stress.

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Freelancing in Nigeria is a bit like cooking the perfect egusi soup. You need the right ingredients, timing, and technique for it to turn out great. But without a smart way to manage foreign payments, it’s easy to burn your profits before you even take a bite.

In this article, I’ll walk you through how smart Nigerian freelancers get paid in dollars, make the right swaps, and turn it into naira without losing too much to the banks. From using better platforms to knowing when to convert, it’s all about keeping more of your money where it belongs: with you.

The challenges with earning and receiving money globally in Nigeria

Global platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal are packed with Nigerians delivering high-quality work across time zones. But international clients come with international payments. And with that, new challenges.

You get paid in USD, but your landlord wants naira.

Your client pays via PayPal, but PayPal is restricted in Nigeria for receiving funds.

The project went great, but your bank held your funds hostage for weeks.

That’s when many freelancers realise: making money isn’t the hard part. Receiving it seamlessly is.

Also read: How to receive USD freelance payments in Nigeria

The three-money mindset

Smart freelancers in Nigeria don’t just focus on earning more. They manage money in three key stages that help them stay ahead.

1. Earning: Get paid in strong currencies

Earning in dollars, pounds, or euros helps protect your income from the naira’s instability. Whether through freelance platforms or direct clients, prioritise payment in stable foreign currencies

2. Holding: Avoid converting everything at once

The moment your foreign payment lands, it’s tempting to convert it all to naira. But waiting for a better rate can make a real difference. Holding your money in a global currency gives you more control.

3. Spending: Convert only when needed, and do it smartly

Convert to naira only for local expenses. For international tools and subscriptions, spend directly from your global balance using a virtual card. This avoids unnecessary fees and poor exchange rates.

This mindset helps you grow your income in real terms. Converting your entire payment to naira the moment it lands is like buying premium fuel just to pour it into a leaking tank.

Also read: How to convert and send USD to NGN online easily

The money mistakes many freelancers make

Let’s talk about the ones we’ve all made.

• Ignoring taxes until it’s too late: When the money starts flowing, it’s easy to forget that the taxman doesn’t. Many freelancers treat taxes as an afterthought until penalties start piling up. A little planning early on can save you a lot of stress later.
• Using personal bank accounts for foreign payments: Many people start out by sharing their regular bank accounts with clients. The result? Funds get stuck, flagged, or converted at terrible rates, and you have little control over the outcome.
• Converting USD to NGN too quickly: It's tempting to cash out immediately, especially when you have bills to pay. But converting during a dip in the FX rate can cost you thousands of naira. Imagine losing ₦50,000 just because you swapped currencies at the wrong time
• Accepting payments through platforms that eat into your income: Some platforms charge up to 10% just to receive your money. Add that to hidden currency conversion charges and withdrawal fees, and you're losing a big slice of your earnings before you even touch it.
• Relying on international transfers that take forever: Banks can hold your funds for days, even weeks. Meanwhile, your landlord won’t wait, your internet subscription is due, and your wallet’s on E.

You’ve got better options now.

Enter: financial tools that work for you, not against you

Grey is helping Nigerian freelancers flip the script. Here’s how:

• You get free USD, GBP and EUR accounts that make receiving payments from clients or platforms easy.
• You hold foreign currency and only convert to naira when the rate is right.
• You convert currencies in seconds, not days.
• You get a virtual card for spending in dollars online, so you don’t waste money on hidden fees.

All of this, without leaving your living room.

The freedom to earn anywhere, spend smartly and stay in control

The global freelance economy is growing fast, and Nigeria is part of the movement. But your hustle deserves more than reasonable rates. It deserves tools that support your long-term goals.

Saving for a trip, paying rent, building an emergency fund, or managing your foreign earnings should feel effortless, not like a puzzle with missing pieces.

Grey helps you keep your income flowing, your costs low, and your focus on doing great work where it matters.

Ready to take control of your freelance earnings?

Create your free Grey account and make your money work smarter, not harder.

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The internet is the freelancer’s playground; unfortunately, the same can be said of the scammer.

Gigs can disappear overnight, and clients sometimes vanish just before payday. Online scams are an unfortunate reality for freelancers everywhere. With more people working independently across borders, the tricks are getting smarter, faster, and harder to spot.

If you’re a freelancer navigating multiple platforms, currencies, and clients, I’ll help you identify red flags, protect your payments, and keep your workflow secure.

Why are freelancers prime targets for scammers?

Freelancers often work independently, without the legal or administrative buffers that traditional jobs offer. Many don’t have contracts or secure payment systems, making them easy targets.

You may also be working across countries and time zones, which can complicate communication and make it easier for scammers to disappear.

The threats come in many forms. And once you lose money, recovering it is difficult.

Also read: Top five money transfer scams and how to avoid them

The most common online scams targeting freelancers

Here are some of the most common online cams that freelancers should be looking to avoid:

1. Non-payment scams

The client reaches out, gives a brief, agrees to your rate (almost too quickly), and asks for a quick turnaround. You submit the work and suddenly, they disappear.

Scams like this hit freelancers who need consistent cash flow to support themselves.

Here are some things to watch out for:

• No signed contract or upfront agreement
• Vague details about the company or project
• An eagerness to get work done urgently without a deposit
• Using personal email addresses or no company website

How to avoid non-payment scams

• Always request an upfront deposit, about 30% to 50%, before you start any work. If a client is hesitant, that’s already a red flag.
• Split payments so that as you reach a milestone, you get paid.
• Use freelance contracts or platforms with built-in escrow to hold funds securely until you deliver.

2. Fake cheque or overpayment scams

In this one, the scammer says they’ve overpaid you by mistake, usually via cheque or a fake bank transfer and asks you to refund the difference. Then, their original payment bounces, and you’re left footing the loss. Usually, the client claims to be “in a rush” or dealing with a bank error. A common method that they use to make tracing even more difficult is that they ask you to send the difference to a third party. They may also insist on using odd payment methods or wire transfers.

How to avoid fake cheques or overpayment scams

• Never refund money until a payment has cleared.
• If it’s a cheque, wait for it to fully settle, which can take days.
• Don’t accept overpayments or forward funds to anyone you don’t know personally. Trust your gut if something feels fishy.

3. The client who wants you to pay first

Some scammers flip the script and tell you they need something before starting, like a processing fee or a subscription to a third-party platform. These payments can range from asking you to pay to unlock job details to requiring a security or verification fee before onboarding. Sometimes they may offer to reimburse you for an expense. Of course, that’s never going to happen.

Freelancers, especially those new to the field, are more likely to fall victim to these kinds of scams. They may feel desperate to land a gig, and this scam preys on that urgency.

The simple way to avoid this kind of scam is to never pay a client. Ever. You’re providing the service, not the other way around. Any job that requires payment up front is likely a scam.

4. Stolen identity or fake job postings

This usually begins with a scammer lifting the branding or profile of a real company or agency to lure you in. You think you’re talking to someone legit, but it’s a bait-and-switch. You usually will apply through what looks like a legit job board and are then contacted via Telegram, WhatsApp, or email by someone posing as an “HR rep”. They conduct a fake interview and ask for your personal info or bank details. You later discover the job never existed.

How to avoid stolen identity or fake job postings

• Double-check who you’re dealing with. Google the company, and to take things a step further, contact them via their official website to confirm the job offer.
• Avoid sharing sensitive documents like passport copies or account numbers unless you’re sure it’s for a verified gig.
• Avoid clicking on unknown links or downloading documents from untrusted sources. Use tools like password managers and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect your accounts.

5. Unpaid trial work

Another sneaky one. The client wants to test your skills with a small task, often framed as part of the hiring process. If the work is too detailed or suspiciously resembles actual deliverables, chances are they’re just collecting free work from multiple freelancers.

Some easy giveaways are the lack of a clear commitment to hire, the duration of the task and sometimes, multiple rounds of work.

To protect yourself, if you must accept an unpaid task, only take a short one, like a 100-word writing sample. Full-on work should be paid. Treat unpaid trials as speculative, and don’t invest serious time without something formal in place.

How to protect yourself and your money from scammers

Here are some practical ways to stay safe while freelancing online:

1. Use verified platforms

Stick to reputable freelance marketplaces like Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, and PeoplePerHour. These platforms have built-in safety features that help protect freelancers, including verified client identities, escrow payment systems, and dedicated dispute resolution support. Working within a trusted platform also gives you access to public client reviews and ratings, helping you vet job offers more effectively. Avoid platforms or websites that seem too new or lack a track record of protecting freelancers.

2. Always get a contract

Even when working off-platform, a written and signed contract is a non-negotiable layer of protection. It should clearly outline the scope of work, payment terms, timelines, revision limits, and who owns the final deliverables. A good contract protects both parties from misunderstandings or shady behaviour and helps enforce accountability. If a client resists signing an agreement, consider it a red flag.

3. Never pay to apply for a job

Legitimate clients don’t charge freelancers upfront to be considered for a job. If you’re ever asked to pay for application processing, software licenses, onboarding fees, or training before any work begins, it’s almost always a scam. These requests are often disguised to look professional, but they’re designed to exploit your eagerness to land a gig. Walk away immediately if money is requested before work starts.

4. Don’t work for free

Unpaid test tasks may seem harmless, especially if they promise future paid work, but scammers often use them to get free labour. If a potential client insists on seeing your skills, offer to complete a small portion of the job as a paid sample or direct them to your portfolio. Remember, if you’re expected to deliver value, you should be compensated for it, no matter how small the task.

5. Verify client details

Before accepting any work, do a quick background check on your client. Look them up on LinkedIn to verify their professional presence and check if they’re affiliated with a legitimate company. Explore the company website, read reviews, and request communication through a professional email address. Avoid engaging with anyone using vague identities, personal email accounts, or who refuses to provide contact details. If you feel uneasy after your research, walking away is okay.

6. Use secure payment methods

Avoid using untraceable payment methods like direct crypto transfers, especially with first-time clients. Instead, use secure platforms that allow you to track payments and lodge disputes if necessary. Trusted tools like PayPal, Wise, and Grey offer freelancer-friendly features and international transaction support. Grey, in particular, lets you receive payments from clients abroad in USD, EUR, or GBP, and convert them to your local currency at competitive rates.

7. Trust your instincts

Freelancers often overlook their gut feelings, but instincts are an important first line of defence. If a job description feels vague, the communication is pushy, or something doesn’t sit right, pause. Many scammers prey on desperation or urgency. Don’t let pressure push you into a risky deal. It’s better to miss out on a job than to chase a payment that’ll never come.

8. Stay informed

Scammers constantly adapt their strategies, so staying informed is crucial. Join freelancer communities on Reddit, Discord, or LinkedIn where people share scam warnings, client blacklists, and new fraud trends. Follow accounts and blogs that publish regular updates on remote work and online safety. Our blog is a great place to start.The more you know, the quicker you’ll spot a scam when it appears.

9. Get paid in phases

Breaking large projects into milestones protects both you and the client. Ask for partial payments at key project stages after the initial draft, after revisions, and so on. This ensures you’re compensated for your work as you go and avoids the nightmare of chasing down a full payment after you’ve delivered everything.

What to do if you’ve been scammed

• First, tell your bank. Banks are usually required to reimburse their customers for forged checks. However, depending on the circumstances of the case, they may want to investigate further.
• Alert other people within your circle. They could become potential targets, especially if it were a case where your details were stolen and subsequently, accounts hacked.
• Speak about it on social media if you’re comfortable with that. You may be helping someone.
• Alert the organisation/platform that the scammer mentioned they found your profile on.

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

Staying alert and cautious as a freelancer will protect your income, time, and peace of mind. Using a verified financial platform adds a layer of legitimacy that shady clients find more difficult to bypass. Create your Grey account today or download the app to enjoy inclusive global banking designed to carry your dreams across borders.

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Brazil has so many different cultures and ways of life that every time I visit a new state I feel like a foreigner discovering a whole new country. And I say that as a Brazilian.

With forests, arid backlands, wetlands, and over 7,000 kilometres of paradise beaches, our landscapes are just as diverse as our people. So I get why so many digital nomads come here looking to experience the unique adventure of a continental country, where each region offers a new layer of contrast.

But as someone who lives in Brazil and has been getting paid in USD for years, I also understand the less glamorous side of managing multiple currencies while living here. So, if you’re a digital nomad in Brazil still figuring out how to manage foreign currencies and the Brazilian real (BRL), I’m writing this article for you.

Join me as we explore the real-life hacks, tools and currency tips that make it all work.

Also read: Fastest way to receive US dollar payments in Brazil

Getting paid in foreign currency

Let’s start with the basics. Most digital nomads working in Brazil get paid in USD, EUR or GBP. That’s great news when you look at the exchange rates: 1 USD can get you over 5 BRL right now. But it also means your income is sitting in a different financial universe than the one you're living in day to day.

The first big decision is: where does my money land? If you’re still receiving payments through PayPal or Wise directly into BRL, you’re probably losing more to fees than you realise to bad exchange rates. That’s why so many nomads in Brazil use multi-currency accounts.

Controlling when and how you convert

Once you're getting paid in a foreign currency, the next challenge is how and when to convert it to BRL. Some convert everything immediately. Others hold their earnings in USD or EUR for as long as possible, waiting for a better rate or using that currency to pay for international expenses.

Personally, I do a mix of both. I use Grey to hold my USD earnings and then convert different amounts to BRL when I need to top up my local account. That way, I’m not forced into converting at a costly rate or all at once.

A few things that help:

• Use currency alerts: I keep an eye on the USD/BRL rate and convert when the USD-to-real rate is better for me.
• Don’t convert everything at once: If you stay in Brazil long-term, you’ll eventually need more BRL. But converting little by little gives you more control and flexibility.
• Split your expenses: I try to spend in USD when I can (subscriptions, software, some flights) and only use BRL for local life (groceries, rent, Pix payments, etc.). A virtual USD card makes it way easier to shop online globally. I just pay in dollars online and don’t even have to think about exchange rates.

Also read: How to open US and UK bank accounts in Brazil

Getting into the Pix of it

Once you’ve got your BRL, it’s time to live like a local. That means learning to love Pix, Brazil’s instant payment system. You’ll use it for everything: paying rent, splitting a bill at the bar, tipping your Uber driver, or buying coffee from a corner café.

Most digital nomads send BRL from their multi-currency accounts to a local bank account. From there, it’s all Pix, all the time.

Quick tips:

• You don’t need a CPF (Brazil’s version of a tax ID) to get started with some digital banks, but having one definitely helps.
• Always check for transfer fees or bad conversion rates when using international apps. Some platforms charge more than you think.
• If you’re staying in Brazil for a few months, opening a local bank account can save you money and make daily life easier.

You may also like: Best affordable living options for digital nomads in Brazil

The challenge of managing two financial worlds

Here’s what nobody tells you before you get here: managing two currencies at once is a bit like juggling. You’re constantly checking balances, comparing rates, and making sure you don’t get stuck with no BRL in your account on a holiday weekend.

But you do get better at it. After a few months, you’ll know exactly when to convert, how much to keep in foreign currency and what to leave in your Brazilian account for bills and day-to-day life.

And eventually, you’ll start to feel like you’ve got the best of both worlds: the earning power of USD, EUR or GBP, and the freedom and beauty of living in Brazil.

It’s all about flexibility

There’s no perfect system for managing foreign currencies and BRL, but there are definitely smarter ways to do it. The key is flexibility. When you have the right tools, you can decide when to convert, how to spend, and how to protect your income from unnecessary fees.

If you’re still figuring it all out, I’d genuinely recommend giving Grey a try. It’s super simple to use and built for people who live and work across borders. You can open a free account and see how much easier things get.

Living in Brazil is a wild, beautiful adventure. And with the right money strategy, it gets even better.

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