Before you set up for global freelancing from Indonesia, you must read this article.
It is time to stop dragging your feet about starting freelancing from Indonesia. You should not overthink it because it is a solid move, and you will be entering the market at a good time. The global demand for remote talent continues to grow, and Indonesian freelancers are doing well in various freelancing roles. Of course, the competition is now tougher than it used to be, which is why you need to plan ahead. This guide walks through how to set yourself up for global freelancing from Indonesia.
Freelancing has become attractive for Indonesians for several practical reasons:
Transitioning into freelancing is easier when you understand the landscape. These steps help you build a solid foundation.
International clients hire based on demand, not location. In 2026, Indonesian freelancers are finding consistent work in areas such as:
Focus on one core skill first, then specialise further as you gain experience.
Clients want evidence, not just promises. Before you start pitching your skills, help your prospective clients see what you can do by putting a portfolio together. This should include real samples such as code repositories on GitHub for developers, design mocks on Behance, or writing samples on a simple site. Highlight what you did and the results (even if it's mock projects at first). These proofs can convince your clients to hire you.
Landing your first client is usually the toughest part of freelancing. First, make it clear that you are offering this service and are open to hiring. Alerting your immediate network helps them recruit others to support your job search. They can share opportunities they come across or recommend you to others. But this is not sustainable. You still need a freelancing platform or job board. Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are popular freelancing platforms with a wide range of roles. For curated, tech-focused platforms, you should look at Toptal, Gun.io, and Hired.
Remote job boards such as We Work Remotely, Remote.co, and FlexJobs help you filter your search by your preferences. You can also reach out to prospective recruiters via LinkedIn or connect on Slack and Discord communities. Many successful freelancers combine platforms with direct outreach rather than relying on a single source.
Also read: How freelancers in Indonesia can access global gigs and get paid
Receiving foreign income is one of the most important and often overlooked parts of freelancing from Indonesia. Most international clients pay in USD, EUR, or GBP. Traditional banks may convert your funds immediately at unfavourable rates and charge high international transfer fees, which can eat into your earnings. You might also experience a delay in accessing your money.
To avoid this, many freelancers set up multi-currency accounts that allow them to receive foreign payments, hold funds in stable currencies, and convert to IDR only when rates are favourable. Platforms like Grey provide Indonesian freelancers with:
This setup helps you protect your earnings and maintain better control over cash flow.
Also read: How freelancers in Indonesia can switch from traditional banks to Grey
Pricing is one of the hardest parts of freelancing. As a general rule, you should price in foreign currencies whenever possible. Start with a rate that covers your living costs, taxes, and tools. You should avoid a race to the bottom by competing solely on price. While it is good to start small, don't compromise on your base rate. Increase your rates as you gain reviews, results, and repeat clients. One thing people won’t tell you is that project-based pricing often works better than hourly billing, especially for experienced freelancers. So, prioritise getting long-term roles.
Clients often check your online presence before responding. Optimise your LinkedIn profile with a clear headline and professional photo. Clearly describe what you do and who you help. List skills, certifications, and relevant experience. Sharing insights, completed projects, or industry analysis/commentary proves that you know your onions.
It is time to stop brooding over the idea of starting global freelancing from Indonesia. While it requires structure and intentional planning, the rewards are promising. One structure you must put in place early is a system for managing your earnings. Many Indonesian freelancers use Grey to manage foreign income through multi-currency accounts, transparent fees, competitive exchange rates, and fast local withdrawals. Features such as invoicing tools and virtual USD cards streamline payments and reduce unnecessary losses.
Visit Grey’s website today and download the app to set up the reliable payment solution for Indonesian freelancers.
.svg)
Back to top
