Wise vs Remitly: which works better for Egyptians?

Tunde Aladeloba

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For freelancers in Egypt working with international clients, navigating cross-border payments and exchange rates can be a real challenge. Platforms like Wise and Remitly each promise convenience and speed, but differences in fees and conversion rates can significantly impact how much you actually receive in Egyptian pounds.

This guide compares Wise and Remitly, examining transfer fees, exchange rates, and transaction speeds. The goal is to provide Egyptian freelancers and remote workers with clear insights to choose the platform that delivers the best value for their international earnings.

Read also: Paypal and Payoneer alternatives for freelancers in Egypt

Why Egyptian freelancers should compare payment platforms

Comparing payment platforms helps Egyptian freelancers understand exchange rates, transfer speed, reliability, and convenience, so they can make smarter choices and keep more of what they earn.

  • Maximise earnings: Platforms differ in exchange rates and fees. Some even have hidden charges.  Choosing wisely ensures more Egyptian pounds land in your account.
  • Plan cash flow: Knowing transaction times and costs helps freelancers budget accurately and manage projects without surprises.
  • Stay competitive: Understanding platform differences lets freelancers price their services fairly without losing money to transfers.
  • Reliable payments: Comparing platforms ensures faster, hassle-free transfers, so freelancers spend less time worrying and more time working.

Read also: How Fiverr freelancers in Egypt can receive payments easily in 2025

How Wise and Remitly compare for cross-border payments in Egypt

As a freelancer in Egypt, choosing the right payment platform is about speed, reliability, and ease. These are key differences between Wise and Remitly for international payments.

Cost

Wise is known for low, transparent fees. It uses the mid-market exchange rate, meaning no hidden markups. Fees depend on the amount sent and payment method, often around 0.4–0.5% for transfers to Egypt. You always see exactly how much the recipient will get before sending.

Remitly has two pricing options: Economy (cheaper, slower) and Express (faster, higher fees). It also applies a small markup on exchange rates. While Express is quick, the cost can be higher than Wise, especially for smaller transfers. Choosing the right tier depends on how fast you need the money delivered.

Delivery options

Wise focuses on bank-to-bank transfers. Money goes directly into the recipient’s bank account, which is secure and reliable, though it may take a few hours to a day, depending on the bank.

Remitly offers more flexibility. Egyptians can receive money via bank deposit, cash pickup at designated locations or mobile wallets. This makes it ideal if the recipient does not have a bank account or prefers cash in hand.

Speed

Wise transfers are often fast. Many payments reach recipients within minutes or a few hours, depending on the sending method and bank processing times. Wise also shows an estimated delivery time before you confirm the transfer.

Remitly has two speed options: Economy (3–5 business days) and Express (minutes, when paying with debit or credit cards). The faster option is convenient for urgent payments but costs more than Economy.

Account availability

Wise supports Egypt and over 140 countries. Users can create multi-currency accounts, hold different currencies, and receive money as if they had local bank accounts abroad. This is ideal for freelancers or businesses working with international clients.

Remitly also serves Egypt, but doesn’t offer multi-currency accounts. Its strength lies in varied delivery options like cash pickup and mobile money, making it suitable for recipients without traditional bank accounts.

Choosing between Wise and Remitly

Wise is ideal for freelancers or businesses who want transparent, fast bank-to-bank transfers with predictable delivery times. It’s best when sending larger amounts, managing multiple currencies, or needing multi-currency accounts for regular international payments.

Remitly is perfect for sending smaller amounts quickly, especially when recipients need cash pickup or mobile wallet access. Its Express option works well for urgent payments, while Economy is suitable for non-urgent transfers at lower costs.

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Alternative cross-border payment solutions in Egypt

Besides Wise and Remitly, Egyptian freelancers can also consider OneSafe, PayPal, and Grey.

OneSafe: OneSafe offers a secure digital wallet for Egyptian freelancers, enabling safe storage and transfer of funds globally. It emphasises encryption, reliability, and user-friendly solutions for hassle-free international payments.

PayPal: PayPal is a widely recognised platform for global payments. Egyptian freelancers can send and receive money internationally, enjoy strong buyer protection, and access seamless transactions across multiple currencies.

Grey: Grey provides fast and dependable international money transfers with competitive exchange rates. Egyptian freelancers can easily move funds abroad, benefiting from transparent fees, timely transactions, and a smooth digital interface.

Simplify international payments with Grey

Grey stands out because it makes sending and receiving money internationally simple, fast, and reliable. Its transparent rates, secure platform, and easy-to-use interface give Egyptian freelancers full control over their payments.

Sign up or download the Grey app today and start managing global payments effortlessly.

Open a free Grey account to get startedJoin 1 million digital nomads

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