How do digital nomads get paid internationally?

Digital nomads have several flexible ways to receive international payments, depending on whether they freelance, work remotely for a company, or run a small online business. Here’s a breakdown of how it’s commonly done and which methods work best 👇

💼 1. Freelance Platforms #

• Examples: Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, Freelancer.

• Payments are handled internally, then withdrawn to your chosen method (e.g., Wise, Payoneer, or a local bank).

• 💡 Best for: Beginners and freelancers who want built-in protection, contracts, and automated payments.

• ⚠️ Watch out for: Platform fees (5–20%) and currency conversion costs.

💳 2. Fintech Payment Platforms #

🟩 Wise (formerly TransferWise) #

• Lets you receive local bank details in multiple currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, etc.).

• You get paid as if you had a local bank account in those countries.

• Converts funds at mid-market rates with low fees.

• 💡 Best for: Freelancers and remote workers who receive payments from various countries.

🟨 Payoneer #

• Works well for freelancers, marketplaces (e.g., Fiverr, Upwork), and e-commerce payouts.

• Supports multiple currencies and partners with global companies.

• 💡 Best for: Professionals paid by international clients or companies.

🟦 Revolut / N26 / Bunq #

• Offer personal and business accounts with multi-currency options and virtual cards.

• 💡 Best for: Nomads based in Europe who want seamless transfers and mobile banking.

🏦 3. Direct Bank Transfers (SWIFT) #

• Clients wire funds directly to your bank account.

• Reliable but can be expensive — intermediary bank fees and conversion rates can reduce payments by 3–5%.

• 💡 Best for: Larger or recurring payments when both parties prefer formal banking channels.

🪙 4. PayPal and Similar Services #

• Common, but costly due to high fees and poor exchange rates.

• Convenient for small, quick payments or one-time projects.

• 💡 Best for: Occasional transfers, not ideal for regular income.

🪩 5. Remote Work Platforms / Global Payroll #

• Examples: Deel, Remote.com, Oyster, Papaya Global.

• Handle cross-border payroll for full-time or contract workers.

• Allow payout in local or preferred currencies via Wise, Payoneer, or bank deposit.

• 💡 Best for: Remote employees working for international companies.

💡 Pro Tips for Nomads #

• Always invoice in your strongest currency (USD or EUR) when possible.

• Keep at least one multi-currency account (Wise, Revolut) to minimize conversion fees.

• Avoid receiving international payments directly into domestic-only accounts — hidden fees can exceed 10%.

• Maintain two payment methods (e.g., Wise + Payoneer) for backup in case one fails or delays occur.