How to accept cross-border payments as a freelancer or SME

Freelancers and small businesses are no longer limited to local markets. Thanks to remote work, online platforms and digital tools, you can work with clients anywhere in the world. But with this opportunity comes a challenge: how to accept cross-border payments securely, affordably and quickly.

Whether you’re a freelancer trying to get paid globally or an SME handling regular international transactions, choosing the right SME payment solutions makes all the difference. Let’s explore the best methods, tools and tips to make cross-border payments work for you.

Popular cross-border payment methods

When it comes to cross-border payments, you’ve got several options. Each comes with its pros and cons, so it’s worth understanding the basics.

• Bank transfers (SWIFT and IBAN)
  A traditional choice, especially for larger amounts. While reliable, SWIFT transfers can be slow (taking up to five business days) and expensive due to intermediary bank fees.
• PayPal international payments
  Popular with freelancers because it’s simple to set up and widely recognised. However, PayPal charges relatively high fees for currency conversion and international payments, which can eat into your profits.
• TransferGo Business
  Known for transparent fees and real exchange rates. The TransferGo Business Account allows you to hold and exchange multiple currencies in one single, easy-to-use multi-currency account, making it a great option for frequent freelancers handling international payments.
• Money transfer services
  Digital-first platforms like TransferGo Business also offer low-fee payment methods that beat traditional banks on cost and speed. This is especially helpful if you want funds delivered quickly to your business account.

How to choose the right payment method

With so many options, how do you decide which is best for your business? Here are a few factors to consider when setting up international payments for freelancers or SMEs:

1. Fees: Look beyond the transaction fee. Consider conversion charges, hidden mark-ups on exchange rates and potential receiving fees. Low-fee payment methods save you money long term.
2. Speed: Do you need to get paid instantly, or can you wait a few days? Some methods, like PayPal, are relatively quick, while SWIFT payments can drag.
3. Client preference: Offering flexibility matters. Some clients are comfortable with PayPal invoices, while others prefer bank transfers.
4. Currencies supported: If you frequently receive PLN payments but your bank doesn’t support it, you’ll face conversion losses. Choose a method that handles the currencies you work with most.
5. Integration with your workflow: If you’re using global invoicing tools, make sure your payment solution integrates seamlessly.

Tools and platforms for international payments

Digital tools make managing cross-border payments much simpler. Here are some of the most useful:

• Global invoicing tools like FreshBooks, Xero and Zoho Invoice let you create professional invoices with international payment options built-in.
• PayPal invoice tools make it easy to bill clients in their currency, though be wary of fees.
• The TransferGo Business Account offers SME payment solutions that are affordable, fast and simple—ideal for freelancers and small businesses managing international clients.

These platforms don’t just help you get paid internationally; they also improve cash flow visibility and reduce admin stress.

Tips to reduce fees and ensure fast payments

Cross-border transactions don’t have to drain your profits. Here are some smart ways to keep costs low and payments quick:

• Batch payments: If you’re paying multiple suppliers or contractors abroad, batch them together to cut fees.
• Negotiate fees with clients: In some cases, you can agree that the client covers transfer fees.
• Use multi-currency accounts: Store funds in the currency you receive them in, then convert only when rates are favourable.
• Avoid unnecessary conversions: If you regularly receive RON payments, use a platform that lets you hold the currency until you need to convert (like the TransferGo Business Account, for example).
• Pick digital-first providers: Online services like TransferGo are faster and cheaper than traditional banks for international transactions.

The goal? Spend less time worrying about fees and delays, and more time growing your business.

Make cross-border payments simple with TransferGo

Accepting international payments doesn’t need to be complicated. With the right tools and strategies, freelancers and SMEs can receive payments quickly, affordably and securely. Whether you’re sending invoices or exploring TransferGo Business, the key is finding low-fee payment methods that keep cash flowing without unnecessary costs.

That’s where the TransferGo Business Account comes in. Designed for SMEs and freelancers, it offers:

• The ability to hold and exchange multiple currencies—including GBP, EUR, RON and PLN (with more on the way).
• Super-fast transfers—often arriving in minutes.
• Competitive exchange rates and low fees—helping you keep more of your earnings.
• Batch payment features—so you can pay up to 200 accounts at once.
• Multi-currency support—making it easier to get paid globally.

Just like choosing the right invoicing or accounting tool, having the right payment partner is essential.

Ready to make cross-border payments stress-free? Sign up to TransferGo Business today