Collecting from a client in Madrid and collecting from one in Toronto is not the same: the commissions, the deadlines and, in some cases, how you declare the income change.
Most common payment methods
| Method | Approximate commission | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| SEPA transfer (within the EU) | Very low or none | Customers within the European Union |
| wise | Low (~0.3-2% currency exchange rate) | Customers outside the EU, especially USD/GBP |
| Payoneer | Average, according to withdrawal | Collections from marketplaces (Upwork, Fiverr) |
| PayPal | High (commission + uncompetitive currency exchange) | Only if the client requires it, avoid as the main method |
What to check on each international invoice
The invoice currency, a clear reference to the project/month being billed and, if the client is outside the EU, the correct VAT treatment (normally you don't charge it, but you still report it). Go deeper in the <a href="/en/articulo/iva-en-facturas-internacionales-para-freelancers">guide to VAT on international invoices</a>.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to declare the income even if I receive it in an account like Wise or Payoneer?
Yes. The obligation to declare the income depends on your tax residence and your activity as a self-employed person, not on which platform or account you receive the money. Always consult with your agency how to reflect each charge correctly.
What is the cheapest method to collect from a customer outside the EU?
In general, Wise tends to have more competitive currency exchange fees than PayPal or a traditional bank transfer, although it is advisable to compare in your specific case depending on the client's country and currency.
