Getting paid by international clients: options for Nigerian freelancers

By Axyra Nova Editorial · 25 September 2026 · 5 min read · Freelancing

Working with clients abroad opens up a much larger market for freelancers, but it also raises practical questions. How will the client pay? How long will the money take to arrive? What will it cost in fees and exchange rates? What records do you need to keep?

This guide walks through the main options for getting paid internationally, with a focus on freelancers in Nigeria, though most of the advice applies elsewhere too. Rules and providers change, so always check the latest terms directly with each provider.

Start with the client's preference

The best payment method is often the one your client already uses comfortably. Large companies may only pay through their accounts payable systems, by bank transfer to a supplier account. Small businesses may prefer card payments. Marketplace clients pay through the marketplace.

Ask early, ideally in your proposal, so payment never becomes a last-minute obstacle.

Option 1: Marketplaces

Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork handle payment collection for you. The client pays the platform, the platform releases the funds when work is approved, and you withdraw to a supported method.

Advantages:

  • Payment protection and dispute processes.
  • No invoicing or chasing.
  • Clients trust the platform.

Trade-offs:

  • Platform fees on each order.
  • Withdrawal fees and waiting periods.
  • Rules about keeping communication and payment on the platform.

Read each platform's help pages carefully; Fiverr's help centre explains withdrawal methods and timing for sellers.

Option 2: International payment platforms

Services that provide receiving accounts in other currencies let clients pay you as if you were a local supplier. Payoneer is widely used by freelancers for this. Other providers offer similar features in some countries.

Advantages:

  • Clients can pay by local bank transfer in their own currency.
  • You can hold funds and choose when to convert or withdraw.

Trade-offs:

  • Fees for receiving, converting and withdrawing.
  • Account verification requirements.
  • Exchange rates that may differ from the rates you see quoted elsewhere.

If you invoice clients directly, a payment link lets them pay by card. Providers such as Paystack and Stripe offer invoicing and payment links in supported countries. Check which currencies each provider supports for your account, how payouts work, and the fees for international cards.

Option 4: Direct bank transfers

Some clients prefer to pay by international bank transfer. This can work for larger invoices, but fees can be high on both sides, transfers can take several days, and intermediary banks may deduct charges. Make sure your bank details are complete and correct, and confirm how the client's bank will route the payment.

Understanding fees and exchange rates

Every method has costs, often in more than one place:

  • Platform or processing fees on the payment itself.
  • Conversion fees when switching currencies.
  • Withdrawal fees when moving money to your local bank.
  • Exchange rate margins between the rate applied and the mid-market rate.

Compare the total cost of receiving a typical invoice through each method, not just the headline fee. Build these costs into your pricing; our guide to freelance pricing explains how.

Writing clear invoices

For direct clients, a clear invoice speeds up payment:

  • Your name or business name and contact details.
  • The client's name and address.
  • A unique invoice number and date.
  • A description of the work and the period it covers.
  • The amount and currency.
  • Payment methods and details.
  • The due date.

Agree payment terms in your proposal, such as a deposit before starting and the balance on delivery. Our client onboarding guide covers how to set expectations early.

Staying compliant

Freelancers are responsible for understanding the rules that apply to receiving foreign income. In Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria publishes foreign exchange regulations, and tax obligations depend on your circumstances. Keep good records and consider speaking to an accountant who works with freelancers. This guide is not legal or tax advice.

Keeping records

Good records make tax time easier and help you spot problems:

  • Keep a copy of every invoice and receipt.
  • Record the amount received, fees deducted and exchange rate applied.
  • Note which method each client used.
  • Reconcile monthly against your bank and platform statements.

A simple spreadsheet is enough to start. Our guide to Excel pivot tables shows how to summarise income by client or month.

A worked example

A Lagos-based developer works with three types of clients: a few through Fiverr, a UK agency that pays monthly by bank transfer, and a US small business that prefers paying by card.

She keeps Fiverr orders on Fiverr and withdraws regularly. For the UK agency, she uses a receiving account in pounds so the agency can pay her like a local supplier. For the US client, she sends an invoice with a card payment link. She records every payment in one spreadsheet, noting fees and exchange rates, and reviews her total costs each quarter to decide whether to adjust her prices or switch methods.

Protecting yourself from payment problems

  • Take a deposit before starting new direct projects.
  • Use milestones for larger work.
  • Be cautious of overpayment requests, where a "client" overpays and asks for a refund of the difference; this is a common scam.
  • Verify new clients before starting large projects.
  • Keep communication in writing.

How Axyra Nova helps

Axyra Nova tracks orders and earnings across your clients in one dashboard, so you can see what has been paid and what is outstanding. See the features page for details.

Frequently asked questions

Which payment method is cheapest?

It depends on the currencies, amounts and providers involved. Compare the total cost of a typical payment through each option, including conversion and withdrawal.

Should I invoice in naira or in the client's currency?

International clients usually prefer their own currency. Price in their currency and factor in conversion costs.

How do I handle a client who pays late?

Send a polite reminder on the due date, then a firmer one a week later. Clear payment terms and deposits reduce this risk.

Do I need a registered business?

Not always to start, but registering can make some payment providers and larger clients easier to work with. Seek local advice for your situation.