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How to Get Paid Like a Local – Even If You’re Abroad

Tired of Losing Money When Getting Paid from Abroad?

Living or working abroad shouldn’t mean dealing with international banking headaches. But for many expats, freelancers, and digital nomads, getting paid by clients or employers from other countries comes with long wait times, costly fees, and complicated account setups.

The good news? You don’t need a local bank account in every country to get paid like a local.

Let’s explore the smarter, modern way to receive payments across borders without losing money in the process.


The Problem With International Payments

Long Transfer Times

Traditional international wires can take 3–7 days, especially when intermediary banks are involved — and each one may charge a fee.

Currency Conversion Fees Add Up

Even if you receive the payment, converting it to your local currency can come with poor exchange rates and extra charges.

Payment Platforms Aren’t Always Global-Friendly

Platforms like PayPal can hold funds, apply high fees, or force currency conversions before you’re ready — costing you more over time.


The Wise Solution – Local Account Details, Global Freedom

Wise offers a game-changing solution for anyone working or earning across borders: receive local bank details in over 10 currencies, without opening local accounts.

How It Works

With one Wise account, you can receive money like a local in:

  • EUR – IBAN

  • GBP – Sort code + account number

  • USD – Routing and account number

  • AUD, NZD, CAD, HUF, SGD, TRY, RON – Local account formats

Share these details with clients, platforms, or employers, and they can pay you just like they would someone in their country — no international wire needed.


Real-World Examples

Freelancer Living in Portugal

Gets paid by US and UK clients via Wise using USD and GBP account details. Converts when needed into EUR and spends directly with the Wise card in Portugal.

Remote Employee Working from Spain

Employer pays salary into Wise USD account. Employee converts to EUR at mid-market rate and sends it to their Spanish bank account or spends using the Wise card.


Benefits of Getting Paid Like a Local

No Receiving Fees

Receiving money into your Wise account via local routes is fee-free — unlike banks that charge to receive international wires.

Mid-Market Rate Currency Conversions

When you’re ready to convert currencies, Wise uses the real rate — no hidden markups.

Faster Access to Your Money

Since you’re receiving payments locally, you skip the global banking delays. Funds usually arrive faster than traditional transfers.


Ideal for…

  • Freelancers working with global clients

  • Remote employees getting paid in foreign currency

  • Expats receiving pensions, salaries, or family support

  • Digital nomads with income from multiple countries


Final Thoughts – One Account, Endless Flexibility

Getting paid from abroad doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. With a Wise account, you get the local banking experience without local paperwork — and full control over your money.

It’s a smarter, faster, and more affordable way to manage your global income.

Set Up Your Wise Account Today
Share Your Local Account Details
Explore More Expat Money Tips


About 247 Expat Insurance – Helping You Thrive Abroad

At 247 Expat Insurance, we understand the challenges of living and managing finances abroad. From international money transfers to expat health coverage, our mission is to make your life simpler, safer, and more affordable.

We carefully research and recommend tools that help expats like you save money and avoid unnecessary fees — wherever life takes you.

Looking for more tips and trusted services?
👉 Explore our expat guides and tools to make the most of your journey.


 

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