As the world becomes more interconnected, so does the need for efficient and reliable international payment solutions. Now, traditional methods of international money transfers are gradually being replaced by innovative and user-friendly payment apps. These apps not only simplify the process of receiving money from overseas but also offer added features such as real-time currency conversion, security, and convenience.
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Whether you're a freelancer working with clients from the US or an expatriate managing finances across borders, the importance of streamlined cross-border transactions cannot be overstated.‍

Join us as we unveil the top five international payment apps that have revolutionized the way we receive money from overseas along with their highlights, lowlights and our ultimate pick.

Higlobe

Higlobe is a global payments platform built specifically for professionals, freelancers, and small businesses to receive free, instant transfers from the USA while not having to worry about high fees and costs per transaction. Higlobe offers its users the ability to have a US receiving bank account along with the ability to transfer dollars to a virtual prepaid card to enjoy spending around the world.

The highlights

• Money in minutes guarantee: Unlike most other international payment platforms, Higlobe guarantees same-day transfers where the vast majority of funds are delivered in minutes 24x7.
• Free transfers: Higlobe users enjoy transactions completely fee-free while being able to complete as many as they wish. This puts recipients back in the driver’s seat as they no longer have to face getting charged high rates and hidden fees by banking institutions and other international payment methods.
• Prepaid card: Users can load up to$1,000 US dollars with no limit for loading transfers. It’s also available in digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Uu can use your Higlobe balance locally or globally! 
• Local bank transfers: You can transfer USD to your local bank in Brazil or Mexico (local currency transfer) from within the Higlobe app without having to worry about transfer fees and costs.

The lowlights

• Limited to Brazil, Mexico, and the Philippines: At the moment, Higlobe is only available to professionals and businesses located in Brazil, Mexico, and the Philippines.But, not for long. Soon, Higlobe will be expanding its horizons to offer zero-fee transactions to more professionals all around the world.

How to get access to unlimited transactions with Higlobe

Higlobe is on a mission to move the world’s money instantly and at no cost and that’s why we offer global payments with zero transaction fees. We want you to get the hard-earned money that you deserve. Why not start by opening your account? It’s straightforward, simple and only takes 2 minutes!

PayPal

PayPal is a widely used online payment platform that facilitates secure transactions between individuals and businesses. Users link their bank accounts or credit cards to their PayPal accounts, allowing them to make purchases or receive payments without directly sharing financial information. With its user-friendly interface and global reach, PayPal has become a trusted and convenient tool for online transactions worldwide.

The highlights

• Global Accessibility: PayPal operates in 200+ countries, making it a widely accepted choice for global transactions, benefiting businesses and individuals engaging in cross-border activities.
• Security and Buyer Protection: With advanced encryption and fraud detection, PayPalensures secure transactions. Its buyer protection policy adds an extra layer of security,resolving issues like non-delivery or discrepancies in purchased items.
• Effortless Currency Conversion: PayPal automates currency conversions for international transactions, providing real-time exchange rates. This transparency helps users understand and manage the costs involved, enhancing clarity in cross-currency dealings.
• Versatile Payment Methods: Supporting credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers,PayPal offers users flexibility in choosing payment methods. Linking to a bank account adds an extra layer of convenience for managing funds across different sources.
• Business Solutions and Integration: PayPal provides tailored solutions for businesses, including Business accounts, invoicing tools, and customizable payment buttons for seamless integration into websites and e-commerce platforms. This enhances efficiency and user-friendliness in international transactions for merchants and customers alike.

What are the drawbacks of using Paypal?

• High International Fees: PayPal charges fees for certain transactions, especially for cross-border and currency conversion. These fees can add up, particularly for businesses and individuals with high transaction volumes, impacting the overall cost of using the service.
• Currency Conversion Rates: While PayPal provides real-time exchange rates for currency conversion, some users may find that these rates are less favorable compared to other alternatives. This can result in users receiving slightly less money when converting currencies.

Payoneer

Another platform for international transactions is Payoneer. Payoneer is a financial services company that specializes in online money transfer and digital payment solutions. It offers users the ability to receive payments from international clients and marketplaces, providing across-border payment platform. With its focus on simplicity and global accessibility, Payoneer has become a popular choice for freelancers, businesses, and professionals engaged in cross-border transactions.

The highlights

• Global Reach: Payoneer facilitates international transactions, allowing users to receive payments globally in multiple currencies, catering to freelancers and businesses involved in cross-border transactions.
• Multi-Currency Accounts: Payoneer allows users to hold balances in different currencies within a single account, reducing currency conversion fees and simplifying fund management for those dealing with international transactions.
• Compliance and Security: Payoneer prioritizes compliance with financial regulations and implements security measures, ensuring user accounts are protected and building trust among users engaging in safe and secure international transactions.

What are the disadvantages of using Payoneer?

While Payoneer offers several advantages for international transactions, there are some potential disadvantages that freelancers, particularly those in countries like Mexico, Brazil, or the Philippines, and receiving payments in USD, should consider.

• Currency Conversion Fees: Payoneer may charge fees for currency conversion when receiving payments in a currency other than the one your account is denominated in. If you receive USD but your Payoneer account is in a different currency, you may incur additional costs for converting the funds.
• Withdrawal Fees: When withdrawing funds from your Payoneer account to your bank in a country like Mexico, there may be associated fees. These fees can vary, and it's essential to be aware of the costs involved because they can impact the total amount you receive.
• Exchange Rates: Payoneer, like other financial services, may offer exchange rates that are slightly less favorable than the market rates. This could result in you receiving slightly less money when converting USD to the local currency.

Wise

Wise is an international money transfer service that allows users to send and receive money across borders at a cheaper rate than other platforms.

The highlights

One of its standout features is its use of real exchange rates, providing users with a fair and cost-effective way to convert currencies. Over the last couple of years, Wise has gained popularity for its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and providing a straightforward solution for individuals and businesses involved in international transactions.

Cons of using Wise for international money transfers

• Transfer Speed: While Wise transactions are generally efficient, the speed of transfers may vary depending on factors such as the destination country, currencies involved, and the banking systems in place. In some cases, traditional bank wires may still be faster for urgent transfers.

What are the disadvantages of using Wise?

• Not Ideal for Large Transactions: While Wise works for smaller to medium-sized transactions, for very large transfers, users might find that the fees, while still competitive, can add up. In such cases, exploring other options for large transactions may be worthwhile.
• Market Fluctuations: Wise's real exchange rate model means that the rate can fluctuate based on market conditions. While this is generally advantageous, it also means that users might not always know the exact amount their recipient will receive if the exchange rate changes between the initiation and completion of the transfer

Enjoy unlimited, instant transfers from the USA. Use Higlobe!

Being set up to receive international payments might be a daunting task for anyone who doesn’t know the pros and cons of working with banks or international payment providers. The good news is that remote workers, freelancers, and businesses providing services to US-based companies no longer have to worry about losing money on each transaction.

With Higlobe’s easy-to-use platform, international workers, freelancers, contractors, and businesses doing work with clients based in the United States, can easily earn, save, and withdraw money in US dollars.

With Higlobe you get a US-receiving bank account and can receive payments via ACH transfer for business use only. That way, you can get paid as if you were a US resident. Once the money arrives in your US account, you can make withdrawals to your local bank account at any time.

It’s as simple as signing up, sharing your unique Higlobe account number with your client or employer, and receiving payments in US dollars!