Can freelancers outside the US open a USD account?

Yes. Wise and Payoneer support users in many countries with online verification. Availability and features vary by region.

Which is cheaper for conversions?

Wise shows the real exchange rate with a transparent fee. Payoneer fees depend on how you receive and withdraw. Choose based on how you get paid.

Do I need a business entity?

No. Freelancers can open personal accounts. If you invoice as a company, you can open a business account with Wise or Payoneer.

Freelancers need a safe way to receive USD and convert with low fees. In 2025 the easiest solutions are digital multi-currency platforms. Below you’ll open a USD setup in minutes using Wise or Payoneer—and know when each one is the better fit.

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How to Open a USD Account as a Freelancer in 2025

What you need before you start

Valid ID (passport or national ID) and a selfie for verification.
Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement, recent).
A working email and phone number.
Optional: website/portfolio or marketplace profile (Upwork, Fiverr, etc.).

Option A — Open with Wise (transparent fees)

Best for: converting and spending across currencies with the real exchange rate. Wise lets you hold 50+ currencies and provides local details in supported regions.

Create your account: Open Wise (replace with your affiliate link).
Choose Personal or Business (freelancers can start with Personal; if you invoice as a company, use Business).
Verify your identity (ID + selfie). Approval usually takes minutes to hours.
Add money or receive USD from clients; convert only when you need, with fees shown upfront.
Order the debit card (if available in your region) to spend worldwide.

Open Wise (USD Account)

Commission disclosure: we may earn when you sign up via our links.

Option B — Open with Payoneer (marketplaces & payouts)

Best for: receiving USD directly from platforms and international clients. Payoneer integrates with Amazon, Upwork, Fiverr and many more, and lets you withdraw to your local bank.

Create your account: Sign up for Payoneer (replace with your affiliate link).
Complete KYC (ID + address). Provide links to your marketplace or portfolio if requested.
Receive USD in your Payoneer balance from supported partners or clients.
Withdraw to your local bank in your currency, or pay suppliers and services from Payoneer.

Wise vs. Payoneer — quick pick

Need	Choose	Why
Transparent conversions & multi-currency spending	Wise	Real exchange rate, low fees, debit card.
Get paid by marketplaces/clients in USD	Payoneer	Native integrations and fast withdrawals.
Travel & online purchases in multiple currencies	Wise	Hold 50+ currencies and spend globally.
Freelance invoices + payouts workflow	Payoneer	Tools for billing and client payments.

Tips to get approved faster

Use a clear, readable photo of your ID and a bright selfie.
Make sure your proof of address shows your full name and date.
Add links to your portfolio or marketplace profile—this helps Payoneer validate your activity.
Keep your account info consistent (same name on ID, invoices and bank).

Next steps

Open your account with the provider that fits your work today—Wise for transparent conversions and global spending, or Payoneer for integrated USD payouts. Many freelancers keep both to cover all scenarios.

Open Wise (USD Account) Create Payoneer

Editorial note: This guide is part of the Global Bank Guide 2025 series. Information may vary by country and eligibility. Read our Privacy Policy.