Learn the step-by-step guide to withdraw freelancing income in Pakistan using platforms like Payoneer, Wise, and local bank transfers. Explore the safest and most efficient ways to receive money from Fiverr, Upwork, and other freelance sites directly into Pakistani bank accounts.
Introduction
As the freelancing industry continues to grow globally, Pakistan has become one of the top contributors, especially on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer, and PeoplePerHour. A common challenge for many Pakistani freelancers is figuring out the best way to withdraw earnings into local bank accounts efficiently and securely. This guide is designed to help U.S. audiences understand how freelancers in Pakistan receive payments, which platforms are trusted, and how the entire process works—from freelancing platforms to banks in Pakistan.
Available Methods to Withdraw Freelancing Income in Pakistan
Pakistani freelancers have access to several money transfer services that bridge international platforms with local banking systems. Below are the top options:
1. Payoneer (Recommended)
Payoneer is the most popular and reliable service used by Pakistani freelancers.
Steps to Use Payoneer:
- Sign up for a Payoneer account (free): https://www.payoneer.com
- Link your freelancing platform (Fiverr, Upwork, etc.)
- Receive payments in your Payoneer account
- Link a local Pakistani bank account
- Transfer funds from Payoneer to your bank (usually within 24–48 hours)
Supported Banks:
- Meezan Bank
- Bank Alfalah
- UBL
- HBL
- Standard Chartered
(And all other major banks in Pakistan)
Charges:
- Up to 2% on currency conversion
- No hidden monthly fees
2. Wise (Formerly TransferWise)
Wise is another highly trusted platform, known for real-time exchange rates and transparency.
How to Use Wise:
- Create an account on Wise: https://wise.com
- Add recipient details (Pakistani bank account)
- Convert USD or EUR to PKR using mid-market exchange rates
- Send directly to the bank account
Benefits:
- Very low transaction fees
- Faster transfers (same day in some cases)
3. Direct Bank Transfer (Available on Upwork)
Freelancers on Upwork can use Direct to Local Bank Transfer (DTL) powered by Wise.
Steps:
- Go to your Upwork settings > Get Paid
- Choose “Direct to Local Bank”
- Add Pakistani bank details
- Set withdrawal schedule
4. Skrill and PayPal (Limited/Indirect Use)
- Skrill is accessible in Pakistan but not widely used due to high fees and fewer integrations.
- PayPal is not officially available in Pakistan. Indirect workarounds exist but are not recommended due to security and policy violations.
Required Documents to Withdraw Income in Pakistan
To link international accounts with local banks, freelancers need:
- Valid CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card)
- Bank account in their own name
- Registered freelancing platform profile
- Tax registration (optional but recommended for high income)
Taxation on Freelance Income in Pakistan
According to FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) guidelines:
- Freelancing income is treated as export of services
- Income is tax-free if brought through proper banking channels and declared
- Registering as a freelancer with FBR can provide long-term tax benefits
Official Link:
FBR Freelancing Income Guide
Currency Conversion & Bank Processing Time
| Platform | Conversion Rate | Processing Time | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Payoneer | Mid-market – 2% | 24–48 Hours | Low |
| Wise | Real-time rate | 1–2 Business Days | Very Low |
| Bank Transfer | Varies by bank | 2–5 Days | Medium |
Best Practices for Secure Withdrawals
- Always verify your account using legal documents
- Avoid third-party services or agents
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for your Payoneer/Wise accounts
- Never share login or bank details with untrusted sources
- Track all transactions for future tax filings
FAQs – Freelancing Withdrawals in Pakistan
What is the best way to withdraw Fiverr earnings in Pakistan?
Payoneer is the best option, allowing smooth transfers from Fiverr to Pakistani bank accounts.
Can I use PayPal in Pakistan?
No, PayPal is not officially available in Pakistan.
Which bank is best for receiving freelance payments?
Banks like Meezan, Alfalah, and Standard Chartered are preferred for their fast processing and support for Payoneer/Wise.
Is freelancing income taxable in Pakistan?
Yes, but income through official channels is tax-free if declared and received in foreign currency.
How much time does Payoneer take to transfer money to Pakistan?
Usually between 24 to 48 hours.
Can I withdraw Upwork income directly to my Pakistani bank?
Yes, Upwork allows direct local bank transfers through Wise.
Is Wise available for Pakistani freelancers?
Yes, Wise supports sending money to Pakistan but not from Pakistan to other countries.
Are there any limits on withdrawal amounts?
No, but banks may impose daily limits on transactions, which can be adjusted on request.
Can I use someone else’s bank account?
No, the bank account must be in the freelancer’s own name.
What are the charges for using Payoneer?
Typically 2% currency conversion fee. No monthly maintenance charges.
Do I need to register with FBR for freelancing?
It’s optional, but highly recommended for tax documentation and income legitimacy.
Official Links
| How to Open a Payoneer Account in Pakistan | Payoneer Registration Guide for Freelancers | How to Open a Payoneer Account in Pakistan | Payoneer Registration Guide for Freelancers |
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| How to Get Your First Freelance Job on Upwork | Fiverr Profile Tips for Beginners – NayaPK.blog | How to Get Your First Freelance Job on Upwork | Fiverr Profile Tips for Beginners – NayaPK.blog |
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| Top Freelancing Skills to Learn in 2025 | High-Income Remote Skills – NayaPK.blog | Top Freelancing Skills to Learn in 2025 | High-Income Remote Skills – NayaPK.blog |
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| Freelancing vs. Office Job in Pakistan | Career Comparison for U.S. Audiences | Freelancing vs. Office Job in Pakistan | Career Comparison for U.S. Audiences |
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| How to Create a Fiverr Gig | Fiverr Gig Creation Guide – Step-by-Step for Beginners | How to Create a Fiverr Gig | Fiverr Gig Creation Guide – Step-by-Step for Beginners |
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| Top Freelancing Platforms for Pakistani Beginners | Work from Home Jobs – NayaPK.blog | Top Freelancing Platforms for Pakistani Beginners | Work from Home Jobs – NayaPK.blog |
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| How to Start Freelancing in Pakistan | Freelance Career Tips for Beginners – NayaPK.blog | How to Start Freelancing in Pakistan | Freelance Career Tips for Beginners – NayaPK.blog |
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| How to Prepare Financial Documents for Visa Application | Visa Financial Proof Guide – NayaPK.blog | How to Prepare Financial Documents for Visa Application | Visa Financial Proof Guide – NayaPK.blog |
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| Study Visa vs Student Exchange Program | Key Differences & U.S. Education Guide | Study Visa vs Student Exchange Program | Key Differences & U.S. Education Guide |
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| How to Write a Motivational Letter for Scholarships | Scholarship Letter Guide – NayaPK.blog | How to Write a Motivational Letter for Scholarships | Scholarship Letter Guide – NayaPK.blog |
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