Compare the real ways to get your money
Every option lined up on the things that decide the winner: the all-in cost (including the exchange-rate markup), how fast it reaches local cash, and how much verification it needs. Checked June 2026.
| Method | All-in cost (fee + FX) | Speed | KYC | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PayPal → bankwhere supported | ~3–4% high | 1–5 days | Medium | Clients who insist on PayPal | Conversion markup; receive limits |
| Payoneer | ~2% + flat medium | 1–3 days | Medium | Marketplaces & agencies | Conversion on USD→local |
| Wise | Mid-market + ~0.4–1% low | 0–2 days | Medium | Bank transfers in USD/EUR/GBP | Local payout not always supported |
| Grey / Geegpay | ~1% + flat low | Mins–1 day | Medium | Fast local-currency payout | Younger firms — withdraw regularly |
| Bank / SWIFT transfer | Flat fees + poor rate high | 1–5 days | High | Large one-off transfers | Worst value on small amounts |
Figures are indicative and region-dependent. Always confirm the live number with the provider before relying on it. Compare the amount that lands in your bank, not the advertised fee.
If a client can bank-transfer you
Wise usually gives the cleanest rate. Where local payout isn't supported, fall back to a regional fintech like Grey or Geegpay.
If you're paid via a marketplace
Payoneer is typically built in. Use it, verify fully, and withdraw to your bank on a schedule.
If you want the fastest local cash
Grey and Geegpay (in supported African markets) convert and pay out in minutes, often with a card attached.
Want the country-specific version?
Fees, documents and gotchas change by market. Pick yours.