The internet means you can work for a client on another continent. Getting paid is where it gets complicated: currencies, fees, tax and time zones. A little planning avoids most problems.
Choose the currency
Invoicing in your own currency puts the exchange-rate risk on the client. Invoicing in theirs puts it on you. Many freelancers choose a widely used currency such as US dollars or euros, or their own, and say so clearly. Our generator supports a wide range of currencies, with the right symbol or code.
Know the costs
Banks and payment services charge fees for international transfers and take a margin on the exchange rate. The amount you receive can be noticeably less than the amount invoiced. Ask what fees will apply, include any you cannot avoid in your price, and agree who pays them. Some services offer local bank details in several countries, which can lower the cost.
Put the details on the invoice
For international payments you usually need more detail than for local ones:
- The full name and address of the account holder.
- The IBAN and SWIFT or BIC code for European and many other transfers, or routing and account numbers for the United States.
- The currency of the invoice, in words or as a code.
- A payment reference the client should use.
Tax across borders
Whether you charge VAT, GST or sales tax to a foreign client, and whether the client has to account for it themselves, depends on both countries' rules and on the type of service. Withholding tax can also apply in some places. Check with your tax authority or an adviser before the first invoice.
Language and format
Write in clear, simple English and use unambiguous dates, such as 12 April 2026, because 04/12/2026 means different dates in different countries. Use a clean layout and send a PDF so it looks the same everywhere. Be aware that our PDF export uses standard fonts: Western letters work, and for other scripts our page suggests using the Word download or printing to PDF.
Time zones and deadlines
State due dates as dates, not as 'in 30 days', and allow for the time transfers take. International payments can take several working days to arrive, so allow for that in your terms.
Tools for this guide
More tips
- What to Put on an Invoice: A Checklist
- Ten Ways to Get Paid Faster as a Freelancer or Small Business
- Invoice Numbers: How to Number Your Invoices Sensibly
- Quote, Estimate, Pro Forma, Invoice: What Is the Difference?
- Payment Terms Explained: Net 30, Due on Receipt and Everything Between
- Credit Notes: When to Use One and How to Write It
- How to Chase a Late Payment Without Damaging the Relationship
- Purchase Orders Explained for Small Businesses
- VAT, GST and Sales Tax on Invoices: The Basics
- Hourly, Day Rate or Fixed Price: How to Price Freelance Work
- Keeping Invoice and Receipt Records: What to Keep and for How Long
- Tracking Billable Time So You Never Under-Bill Again
- Your First Invoice: A Calm Guide for New Freelancers
- All tips and guides
These guides are general information to help you get paid and stay organised. They are not legal or tax advice. Rules differ by country and change over time, so check with your tax authority or an adviser.