Top PayPal Alternatives for Secure Global Payments (2026)

When it comes to managing international payments, PayPal is often the first name that comes to mind. It is quite popular globally and offers a ton of features to make international transfers fast and secure.

But every business has its own needs and budget. Exploring PayPal alternatives can help you find one that is the most suitable and cost-effective for you.

That's exactly what we'll help you do in this article. We've rounded up the top 10 PayPal competitors that you should consider in 2025 for secure, hassle-free global payments.

A lot of freelancers and businesses have relied on PayPal for years. It is familiar, easy to set up, and also supports key documents like FIRA, which is essential for tax and export needs. However, as businesses grow, they often have to look beyond PayPal due to:

• High FX markup: PayPal charges a 3%-4% currency conversion fee. This can lower the final amount you receive, especially if you're receiving frequent or high-value payments.

• Transaction charges: PayPal takes 4.4% plus a small fixed fee on every payment, which can be expensive over time.

• FIRA delays: While PayPal does provide FIRA, it's not always instant. Waiting for it can slow down paperwork.

To select the right payment platform, you need to consider a few factors. These include the fees, exchange rate, currency support, compliance, and ease of use.

1. Fees

It's important to pick a platform with transparent pricing. Why? Because even small deductions can make a big difference, especially when you're dealing with larger invoices. Hidden charges can quietly eat away your profits, reducing the amount that finally reaches your account.

2. Exchange rates

Some platforms offer rates that are closer to the mid-market rate. Others add a bigger margin. So, carefully review the FX rates offered by different platforms, as it will directly affect your final payout.

3. Currency and country support

A reliable platform should let you receive payments in major currencies like USD, EUR, and GBP. It should also support fast, hassle-free transfers from regions where your clients are based.

4. FIRA and compliance

Receiving automated FIRA and GST-friendly fee invoices can save you hours on filings and export documents. It also shows that the platform follows guidelines set by the Reserve Bank of India.

5. Ease of use

Select a platform that offers quick onboarding and is easy to use. Make sure its customer support is responsive too, so you're not left stranded during problems.

PayPal is a reliable choice for international payments. But if you want lower fees or extra features, there are good alternatives. Some of the top options are Xflow, Stripe, Wise, Skrill, Payoneer, Square, Amazon Pay, Authorize.net, Google Pay, and Venmo.

1. Xflow

Xflow is built for Indian freelancers, exporters, and businesses that want a simple and predictable way to collect international payments. It lets your clients pay you through local bank transfers in their own country, which makes the process fast, reliable, and far cheaper than traditional wire transfers.

Xflow offers quick settlements, clear FX rates, and strong compliance support, including free FIRA for every withdrawal.

Key features of Xflow:

• Local receiving accounts: Get a free Xflow Receiving Account during sign-up. Share the account details with clients and start accepting payments from most parts of the world.

• Multi-currency support: Receive payments in 25+ currencies from 140+ countries.

• Local transfer options: Let your clients pay using methods like ACH, RTP, or Fedwire. These transfers are faster and cheaper than international wires.

• Reliable settlement process: There are no intermediary banks between your client and your Receiving Account. This reduces delays and unexpected deductions.

• Fast withdrawals: Move funds to your INR or EEFC account within one business day. You can withdraw any amount at any time.

• Clear FX: Know the exact INR amount you will receive before you withdraw. Xflow's FX rates are linked to the inter-bank or mid-market rate.

Pros:

• Secure platform.
• Supports 25+ currencies.
• Clear, mid-market-linked FX rates.
• Fast, predictable settlements.

Cons:

• Limited to receiving payments only.

Pricing:

• Starter: $12 for invoices up to $2,000 and 0.6% for invoices above that.
• Growth: $20 for invoices up to $5,000 and 0.4% for invoices above that.
• Scale: Custom pricing.

G2 rating: 4.9/5

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2. Stripe

Stripe offers a solid payment system with tools that are easy for developers to work with. It was first designed for online businesses, but many freelancers and creators also use it to collect payments.

With Stripe, you can create your own payment process and accept multiple currencies. You can also link it to popular e-commerce platforms and apps.

Key features of Stripe:

• Supports 135+ currencies: Stripe works well for companies with international customers. You can accept payments from almost anywhere.

• Wide range of payment methods: It supports cards, wallets, bank debits, and other local options in different countries.

• Strong API system: Customize everything from checkout to recurring billing.

• Tools beyond payments: Stripe includes invoicing, tax tools, fraud checks, payment reporting, and subscription management.

• Native integrations: Since most e-commerce platforms already support Stripe, it is easy to set up.

Pros:

• Accepts payments in 135+ currencies.
• Can handle subscription billing.
• Has built-in fraud protection.
• Easy to link with leading e-commerce platforms.

Cons:

• Does not provide FIRA in India.
• Invite-only onboarding for Indian users.
• International card fees and conversion charges can be high.
• It can be complicated for non-developers.

Pricing:

• Standard: 2% for cards issued in India, 3% for cards issued outside India.
• Custom: Available on request.

G2 rating: 4.3/5

3. Wise

Wise, formerly known as TransferWise, offers low-cost international transfers with clear fees and real exchange rates. It is popular among freelancers and business owners who wants a simple way to receive money from customers abroad.

Wise shows you the exact fee upfront. It also converts currency at the mid-market rate, without adding a hidden markup.

Key features of Wise:

• Real mid-market rates: Wise uses the actual exchange rate you see on Google, with no markup. This helps you retain more of the money you earn.

• Local currency accounts: You can get bank details in major currencies like USD, GBP, and EUR.

• Simple dashboard: The interface is easy to understand, even if you manage your own accounts.

• Multi-currency balance: You can hold and manage money in several currencies, which is helpful if you work with customers across different regions.

• Digital FIRA: Indian users can request a Foreign Inward Remittance Advice, but it comes at a small fee of $2.50 per transaction.

Pros:

• Transparent fees.
• Mid-market exchange rates with no hidden charges.
• Local receiving accounts in major currencies.
• Easy to use.

Cons:

• No cash deposits or physical branches.
• FIRA is not free.
• Invoice limit of $10,000 for Indian freelancers.
• Not available for registered companies in India.

Pricing:

• ​Sending money: Varies depending on the currency, starting from 1.16%.
• Receiving payments: Free for domestic transfers (non-SWIFT/non-wire) and ACH transfers, varies for SWIFT and wire transfers (depending on currency).
• Conversion fee: Varies by currency.
• eFIRC: USD 2.5 for every transfer.

G2 rating: 3.9/5

4. Skrill

Skrill is a digital wallet that lets you send, receive, and keep money digitally. You can use it for both personal and business payments worldwide.

Skrill offers a wide international reach and supports multiple currencies. It also lets you access funds quickly through its prepaid card.

Key features of Skrill:

• Wide global coverage: Available in 120+ countries and supports around 40 currencies.

• Digital wallet for online payments: You can store money, pay on global websites, and send funds abroad.

• Loyalty program: Users can earn points for transactions and redeem them for rewards.

• Payment flexibility: Supports ACH, ecommerce, and mobile payments.

• Dashboard options: Offers both ready-to-use and custom reporting tools, depending on what you need.

Pros:

• Supports many currencies.
• Prepaid Visa card for quick access to funds.
• Can be used for spending on global websites.
• Offers a loyalty program for regular users.

Cons:

• High currency conversion and withdrawal fees.
• Charges an inactivity fee if the account is unused.
• Slow customer support.

Pricing:

• Skrill-to-Skrill transfers: Up to 2.99%.
• International transfers: Up to 4.99%.
• Currency conversion: 3.99%.
• Withdrawals to bank: 1.75%, with a minimum fee of € 3.50.
• Inactive accounts: €5 per month if there's no login or transaction for 6 months.
• Skrill Visa Prepaid Card: €10 card application fee, €10 annual fee, and 1.75% for ATM withdrawals.

G2 rating: 3.4/5

5. Payoneer

Payoneer has been operating since 2005 and is widely used by freelancers, businesses, and online sellers who work with clients across different countries. It is also used by marketplaces like Amazon, Fiverr, and Upwork.

If you regularly receive international payments, Payoneer can be another good option to consider. It offers a simple way to get paid in multiple currencies without asking clients to deal with expensive international wire transfers.

Key features of Payoneer:

• Multi-currency receiving accounts: Get local account details in USD, EUR, GBP, and other major currencies. Clients can pay you through a simple local transfer.

• Marketplace integrations: Connects with Amazon, Fiverr, Upwork, and more.

• FIRA availability: Payoneer provides a digital FIRA, which helps with GST refunds and export documentation.

• Web and mobile access: The dashboard is clean and simple to manage.

Pros:

• Works in over 190 countries and supports 150+ currencies.
• Easy setup.
• Secure and reliable.

Cons:

• High annual maintenance fees.
• Customer support can be slow during busy periods.
• ATM withdrawals can be costly.

Pricing:

• Payments from another Payoneer user: Free.
• Payments sent directly by your clients: Depends on the method, starting at around 1%.
• Payments from marketplaces or partner platforms: Varies based on the marketplace or network.
• Payments received through your global receiving accounts: Free for local currency deposits; a fixed fee or 1% applies for other currencies.

G2 rating: 3.2/5

6. Square

Next on our list of the best PayPal alternatives is Square. It helps individuals and small businesses accept both online and in-person payments.

While Square is more popular for its point-of-sale tools, it also offers simple invoicing, card payments, and a companion app through Cash App. It gives you a fast and easy way to collect payments without a complicated setup.

Key features of Square:

• Point-of-sale tools: Lets small shops and independent sellers accept card payments with minimal effort.

• Cash App support: end and receive money, or even invest in stocks and Bitcoin through Cash App.

• Instant deposits: Move money to your bank instantly for a small fee. Standard deposits take longer but are free.

• Simple setup: Creating an account and starting payments is easy.

Pros:

• User-friendly dashboard.
• Supports both in-person and online payments.
• Cash App gives extra flexibility for quick transfers and small transactions.

Cons:

• Instant deposits come with an added percentage fee.
• Limited global coverage; mainly operates in the US and the UK.

Pricing:

• Free: $0 per month + transaction charges
• Plus: $35 per month + transaction charges
• Premium: Custom pricing + transaction charges

G2 rating: 4.5/5

7. Amazon Pay

Amazon Pay is a payment option built on Amazon's trusted system. It lets customers pay on other websites using details already saved in their Amazon account. This makes checkout faster and easier, as they don't need to enter the information every time.

Plus, most customers are already familiar with the platform. This makes it a good pick to build credibility and provide a smoother shopping experience.

Key features of Amazon Pay:

• Amazon account login: Customers can complete a payment by signing in with their existing Amazon credentials.

• Supports multiple currencies: Accepts payments in 12 currencies across 18 countries.

• Built-in fraud protection: It uses Amazon's security tools to keep transactions safe.

• Multiple payment methods: Works with saved credit cards, debit cards, and eligible local payment options.

• Express payouts: Transfers funds to your bank account within 24 hours.

Pros:

• Very convenient for customers who already shop on Amazon.
• Strong security backed by Amazon's systems.
• No setup or monthly fees.

Cons:

• Limited usage.
• High fee structure.
• Limited customization options.

Pricing:

• Base price: 2.7% + 30p per transaction
• Cross-border surcharge: 0.4% - 1.5%, capped at 4.2% + 30p per transaction

G2 rating: 4.5/5

8. Authorize.net

Authorize.net lets you accept payments through credit cards, debit cards, and other digital methods. While it is mainly used by companies, even individuals who need a reliable way to collect payments can use it.

Authorize.net runs on Visa's network, which adds a layer of trust and stability. It supports online payments, mobile payments, and even in-person transactions through compatible card readers.

Key features of Authorize.net:

• Multiple payment options: Accepts credit cards, debit cards, eChecks, and digital wallets.

• Mobile and in-person payments: Works with smartphones and card readers for in-person transactions.

• Simple checkout tools: Add a 'Buy Now' or 'Donate' button to your website for quick payments.

• Fraud protection: Comes with real-time fraud detection tools backed by Visa's systems.

• Dashboard and workspaces: Organized payment information across devices and teams.

Pros:

• Supports many payment methods in one place.
• Strong fraud prevention features.
• Offers a free Virtual Point of Sale tool for in-person card payments.

Cons:

• Setup can feel complicated for users without technical experience.
• High monthly fees and gateway charges for low transaction volumes.
• Some features are more suitable for larger businesses.

Pricing:

• All-in-one: $25 per month; 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction
• Gateway only: $25 per month; 10¢ per transaction + daily batch fee of 10¢

G2 rating: 4.2/5

9. Google Pay

Google Pay started off as a digital wallet. But today, it is used as a global payment tool by millions of users across 60 countries. It is especially popular in India and the UK for online shopping, in-store payments, bills, and sending money to friends.

It is an easy way to give your customers a quick and familiar checkout. They can pay with a tap, scan a QR code, or use cards saved in their Google account without typing any details.

Key features of Google Pay:

• Fast checkout: Customers can pay with one tap online, in apps, or in stores.

• Google account integration: Payments use the cards already saved in a user's Google account.

• Strong security: Uses biometrics, encryption, and tokenization.

• Wide device compatibility: Works on most Android phones and browsers.

Pros:

• Very quick payments, both online and in-store.
• Strong security through biometrics and encrypted tokens.
• No additional merchant fee beyond the usual card processing rate.

Cons:

• Availability depends on countries and banks.
• NFC-based payments need compatible devices.
• Does not have its own dedicated merchant portal.

Pricing: Varies depending on the card and processor.

G2 rating: 4.6/5

10. Venmo

Venmo is a well-known payment app in the U.S. It started as a way for friends to split bills and send money to each other. Today, small businesses can use it too.

Since Venmo is owned by PayPal, it works easily with PayPal and Braintree accounts. Customers can pay through the app or scan a QR code. They can also use online checkout. However, Venmo is limited to the US. You can also not use it for international payments.

Key features of Venmo:

• Mobile-first payments: Lets users send and receive money in seconds through a simple mobile app.

• Multiple payment methods: Accepts payments through Venmo balance, bank account, QR codes, and cards.

• Instant transfers: Move money to your bank instantly for a small fee. Free standard transfers are also available.

• PayPal ecosystem: Works easily with PayPal and Braintree.

Pros:

• Simple and quick payments.
• Large active user base in the US.
• Works for both personal and business use.

Cons:

• Limited to the US.
• No support for international transfers.

Pricing:

• Standard: 1.9% + $0.10
• Tap to pay: 2.29% + $0.09

G2 rating: 4.5/5

Picking the right PayPal alternative depends on your business type. You should also look at fees, payment options, security, and whether it works in the countries you sell to.

1. Business model

Different types of businesses handle payments in different ways. Online shops, service providers, and physical stores each need tools suited to their sales model. Pick a payment platform that works with how your business operates and the way your customers like to pay.

2. Transaction fees

Transaction charges can add up quickly. So, check the rates and look for any hidden costs to determine what you'll actually have to pay based on your monthly volume.

3. Payment methods

Look at how your customers like to pay. Do they prefer cards and digital wallets? Or they're more comfortable with bank transfers and buy-now-pay-later options? Select an option that supports the payment methods they use the most.

4. Security measures

Always put security first. Choose a provider with strong encryption, fraud protection, and proper compliance so your customers can pay safely.

5. Global coverage

If you work with clients in other countries, pick a provider that handles multiple currencies, shows clear exchange rates, and makes international transfers simple and smooth.

We hope this list of the top 10 PayPal alternatives helps you see what's out there. In the end, the best choice depends on your business needs and the fees you are willing to pay.

One platform that hits all the right boxes is Xflow. It offers:

• Clear, mid-market-linked rates.
• Next-day settlements.
• Multi-currency support.
• Free FIRA.
• Seamless integrations.

Sign up with Xflow today to make cross-border payments more manageable than ever.