How to Receive Payments from Abroad in 2025 - Fast & Simple with low fees

Receiving international payments doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. In 2025, some money transfer platforms make it quick, secure, and affordable to receive payments from abroad, whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or sending support to family back home.

Why International Currency Exchange Is Easier

Thanks to digital wallets, fintech platforms, and new regulations, cross-border payments are now:

Faster — transactions clear in minutes, not days.

Affordable — low or zero transfer fees in many corridors.

More secure — encrypted, regulated, and traceable.

More accessible — works via mobile apps or bank accounts.

Methods to Receive Payments from Abroad in 2025

1. Bank Transfer (SWIFT or SEPA)

Best for: Businesses and high-value transfers

Funds are sent directly to your local bank account.

Processing time: 1–3 business days.

Fees: Usually $10–$30, depending on the bank.

A reliable, though not the most affordable, option.

Currency Solutions

Best for: Personal and Businesses (large & small money transfers)

Get multi-currency accounts.

No hidden charges for currency transfers.

Supports 40+ currencies and major currencies pair.

Personal portfolio manager to guide complex transfer processes.

Highly rated on Trustpilot for service and reliability.

MoneyGram

One of the best and most trusted global networks.

Senders can pay online or in person; receivers can collect cash at local agents.

Available in 200+ countries.

Great for people who prefer cash pickup.

Dahabshiil

Popular across Africa and the Middle East.

Offers both bank deposits and cash collection.

Mobile wallet integration in many countries.

Known for community trust and low fees.

Nala

Fast-growing African fintech app.

Focused on remittances to Africa with low transaction fees.

Users receive money directly from mobile wallets or bank accounts.

Transparent exchange rates with no hidden charges.

Mama Money

South African mobile money platform.

Simple sign-up and quick transfers to 50+ countries.

Great for people sending money to South Africa or Asia.

Cash pick-up, mobile wallet, and bank delivery available.

How to Receive Money Step-by-Step

Choose your platform (e.g., Currency Solutions, MoneyGram, Nala, etc.)

Register an account (upload ID for verification).

Provide your payment details (bank or mobile wallet).

Ask the sender to transfer funds via the same platform.

Receive your payment instantly or within 1–2 days, depending on the method.

FAQs

Can I receive money without a bank account?

Yes! Platforms like MoneyGram, Dahabshiil, Nala, and Mama Money allow cash pickups or mobile wallet transfers.

How long does it take to receive funds?

Instantly with apps like Nala or Mama Money

1–3 days with bank transfers or Currency Solutions

Minutes with cash pickup via MoneyGram

What’s the cheapest way to receive payments internationally?

Usually, Nala and Mama Money are the affordable platforms, as they charge minimal fees and offer competitive exchange rates.

Is it safe to use online money transfer apps?

Yes. All the above mentioned companies are licensed, regulated, and use secure encryption for transactions.

Can I receive business payments through these platforms?

Yes. Currency Solutions and Dahabshiil both support business and freelancer payments internationally.