Freelancers and remote professionals rely on dependable ways to get paid by international clients. The problem is most platforms charge hidden fees, have slow transfers, or poor exchange rates. Choosing the right payment app can make a big difference in how much you keep from every invoice.

This updated 2026 guide reviews the best apps for freelancers to receive international payments quickly and securely. It compares transfer speed, fees, supported currencies, and key features to help you choose the right fit for your work.

Higlobe_‍

_Overview

Higlobe is a U.S.-regulated platform that lets professionals abroad receive USD payments instantly from American clients with zero transfer fees. Users get a free U.S. receiving account, can withdraw locally in their currency, and earn up to 3% on their balance through Higlobe Earn.

_{Key features}

‍• Free U.S. account for ACH, wire, and card payments
• No transaction or withdrawal fees
• Instant transfers to local banks
• Regulated in the U.S. for security and compliance
• Available in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, India, and the Philippines

_Pros

‍• Zero transfer fees
• Instant USD payments
• Local bank withdrawals
• U.S. regulation and protection

_Cons

‍• Available only in select countries

_{Ideal for}‍

Freelancers and contractors with U.S. clients who want instant, fee-free USD transfers.

_Tip

Connect your Higlobe account to platforms like Upwork, Deel, or Gusto for seamless USD payments.

Learn more: How Higlobe works | Higlobe Earn | Lowest Cost Guarantee

‍

Wise

_Overview

Wise offers a multi-currency account that supports 80+ countries and transfers at the real mid-market exchange rate. Its transparency and speed make it a favorite for freelancers.

_{Key features}

‍• Hold and convert 50+ currencies
• Local account details for USD, GBP, EUR, and more
• Transparent FX fees between 0.35% and 1%
• Transfers within 1–2 business days

_Pros

‍• Transparent pricing
• No hidden fees
• Global coverage

_Cons

‍• FX fees for frequent conversions

_{Ideal for}

‍Freelancers or businesses working with multiple currencies and global clients.

_Tip

‍Keep balances in USD or EUR and withdraw when exchange rates are most favorable.

‍

Payoneer

_Overview

‍Payoneer is widely used by global freelancers and e-commerce sellers. It integrates with popular platforms and supports multiple currencies.

_{Key features}

‍• Multi-currency accounts for USD, EUR, GBP, and more
• Integrations with Upwork, Fiverr, Amazon, and Airbnb
• Transfers within 1–3 business days
• Fees between 1% and 3% depending on payment method

_Pros

‍• Trusted and secure
• Multi-currency support
• Global reach

_Cons

‍• Higher fees than newer options
• Conversion and withdrawal costs

_{Ideal for}

‍Freelancers and sellers working on global marketplaces or platforms.

_Tip

‍Use Payoneer to consolidate multiple income sources into one account for easier tracking.

‍

PayPal

_Overview

‍PayPal remains one of the most widely used global payment services. It’s fast and convenient but more expensive than modern alternatives.

_{Key features}

‍• Accept payments from over 200 countries
• Integration with Xoom for quick transfers
• Instant payouts to bank or debit card
• Buyer and seller protection

_Pros

‍• Global recognition
• Easy to use
• Strong security features

_Cons

‍• High transaction fees (around 2.9% + FX margin)
• Account holds may occur

_{Ideal for}

‍Freelancers who need convenience and a platform most clients already use.

_Tip

‍Use PayPal for one-time or small payments, and switch to low-fee platforms for regular transfers.

‍

Stripe

_Overview

‍Stripe powers payments for online businesses and platforms globally. Stripe Connect enables compliant global payouts to freelancers and contractors.

_{Key features}

‍• Payouts in 135+ currencies
• Integrated tax and compliance tools
• Local payout rails in key markets
• Transfers within 2–5 business days

_Pros

‍• Reliable and transparent
• Scales with business growth
• Trusted by large marketplaces

_Cons

‍• Not available for individuals directly
• Requires setup for businesses or platforms

_{Ideal for}

‍Companies, agencies, and SaaS platforms managing global contractor payouts.

_Tip

‍Use Stripe Connect to automate large-scale global payments with full visibility and compliance.

‍

Revolut

_Overview

Revolut offers digital banking with advanced money management tools, allowing users to hold and exchange over 30 currencies.

_{Key features}

‍• Multi-currency accounts
• Budgeting and analytics tools
• Peer-to-peer transfers
• FX margin around 0.5%–1%

_Pros

‍• Easy global transfers
• Advanced financial features
• Debit card with low-cost spending abroad

_Cons

‍• Premium features require a paid plan
• Support can be limited for free users

_{Ideal for}

‍Freelancers and travelers who want all-in-one global banking.

_Tip

‍Use Revolut’s budgeting tools to track your income and expenses in real time.

‍

Western Union

_Overview

‍Western Union is one of the oldest and most widespread transfer networks, offering both digital and in-person options in 200+ countries.

_{Key features}

‍• Cash pickup and bank transfers
• 500,000+ global agent locations
• Real-time tracking
• Multiple payment options

_Pros

‍• Unmatched global reach
• Fast delivery options
• Multiple payout methods

_Cons

‍• Higher fees for small transactions
• Less competitive FX rates

_{Ideal for}

‍Freelancers or families in regions where digital banking isn’t widely available.

_Tip

‍Choose online transfers for better rates and faster delivery times.

‍

DollarApp

_Overview

‍DollarApp is designed for Latin American users who want to store, send, and receive USD easily. It helps freelancers hedge against local currency fluctuations.

_{Key features}

‍• USD accounts with crypto on/off-ramps
• Works in Argentina, Mexico, and other LATAM markets
• Fast transfers and payments
• Mobile-first design

_Pros

‍• Protects users from inflation
• Simple USD management
• Fast and affordable transfers

_Cons

‍• Limited to LATAM markets
• Smaller user base

_{Ideal for}

‍Freelancers in Latin America who receive USD from global clients.

_Tip

‍Use DollarApp to receive USD and protect your earnings from currency devaluation.

‍

What to look for when choosing an international payment app

Not every payment platform is built the same. Before choosing one, think about how it fits your work habits, income flow, and clients. Here are a few things worth checking:

_{Transfer costs and exchange rates}

‍Focus on the total amount you’ll receive, not just the advertised fee. Some platforms charge low upfront costs but add hidden FX margins.

_{Ease of use}

‍You shouldn’t need a manual to get paid. Look for an app that’s intuitive, mobile-friendly, and simple to connect with your clients.

_{Recurring or automated payments}

‍If you bill monthly clients, check whether the app supports recurring or scheduled payments. It saves time and reduces missed invoices.

_{Speed of transfers}

‍The difference between a one-day and five-day payout can matter. Compare delivery times and see whether instant options are available for your country.

_{Security and compliance}

‍Choose platforms regulated in the U.S. or your region, with features like two-factor authentication, encryption, and fraud protection.

_{Compatibility with other tools}

‍Many freelancers use platforms like Upwork, Deel, and accounting tools such as QuickBooks or Notion templates. A good payment platform should work smoothly with them.

_{Global reach}

‍Make sure the service supports transfers to and from the countries where you do business. If you work across continents, you’ll want a platform with wide currency coverage and local payout rails.

‍

Smart ways to manage your money as a global freelancer

Managing payments well keeps your income steady and your taxes stress-free. Here are a few habits that help freelancers stay financially organized:

_{Set expectations early}

‍Be clear with clients about your payment terms before starting work. Include details like your rate, currency, and preferred method of payment.

_{Automate routine tasks}

‍Use automation tools for reminders, follow-ups, or recurring invoices. It reduces the risk of late payments and saves time on admin work.

_{Keep a tax reserve}

‍Treat taxes as a recurring expense. Move a percentage of every payment into a separate account so you’re ready when it’s time to file.

_{Offer more than one way to pay}

‍Some clients prefer bank transfers, others use cards or platforms like Higlobe. Offering flexibility helps you get paid faster.

_{Track everything}

‍Keep a simple record of every invoice, payment, and expense. This helps you understand your cash flow, spot trends, and make filing taxes easier.

Conclusion

Finding the right international payment app starts with understanding your priorities. Look beyond brand names and focus on what matters most for your work—low fees, transfer speed, transparency, and reliability. Choose a platform that fits the way you earn, supports your country, and protects your funds with strong security standards.

As you compare options, pay attention to total costs, not just exchange rates. Test how easy it is to send and receive payments, and check how long transfers take in real conditions. The best platform is the one that helps you get paid quickly, safely, and without losing money to unnecessary fees.

When you’re ready to streamline your workflow and simplify how you receive USD payments, explore Higlobe to experience secure, instant, and fee-free transfers built for global professionals.