How to receive international payments in Turkey, Nigeria, and the Philippines

Why receiving international payments is still challenging

As global work, e-commerce, and freelancing continue to grow, millions of people in Turkey, Nigeria, and the Philippines earn income from abroad. However, receiving international payments is often expensive, slow, and complicated.

Many users face:

• High transfer and conversion fees

• Long settlement times

• Limited access to USD banking

• Currency volatility

Understanding the available options—and choosing the right one can make a major difference in how much money you actually receive.

Common ways to receive international payments

Before looking at country-specific challenges, it’s important to understand the most common methods used worldwide.

International bank transfers (SWIFT)

SWIFT transfers are widely supported but often come with:

• High fees

• Slow processing (2–5 business days)

• Poor exchange rates

Digital payment platforms

Platforms like PayPal and similar services are popular but may charge high fees and apply unfavorable FX rates. Withdrawals can also take several days depending on the country.

US bank accounts

US bank accounts allow users to receive payments directly in dollars and convert only when needed. This reduces conversion losses and speeds up access to funds.

How to receive international payments in Turkey

In Turkey, international payments are commonly received through banks or digital platforms. However, strict regulations and currency volatility can make this costly.

Key Challenges in Turkey

• High FX spreads

• Slower international transfers

• Limited access to foreign currency accounts

Best practice

Holding funds in USD before converting to TRY helps protect earnings and provides better control over timing and exchange rates.

How to receive international payments in Nigeria

Nigeria has one of the largest freelance and remote work populations in Africa, but international payments remain complex.

Key Challenges in Nigeria

• FX restrictions

• Multiple exchange rates

• Delays in international settlements

Best Practice

Receiving payments in USD and withdrawing locally helps users avoid forced conversions and maintain better value.

How to receive international payments in the Philippines

The Philippines is a global hub for freelancers, BPO workers, and remote professionals.

Key Challenges in the Philippines

• Platform fees

• Long withdrawal times

• FX losses on frequent conversions

Best Practice

Using US bank accounts enables faster access to earnings and reduces repeated conversion costs.

Why US bank accounts are the smartest option in 2025

USD remains the most widely used currency in international trade and digital payments. Holding funds in USD offers:

• Better stability

• Faster settlements

• Lower FX losses

How Cenoa helps you receive international payments easily

Cenoa is built for people earning globally and withdrawing locally, especially in markets like Turkey, Nigeria, and the Philippines.

10x cheaper

The cost of receiving end-to-end payments with Cenoa is less than 1%, which is up to 10 times cheaper than alternatives charging up to 8.5%. With a fee below 1%, users can receive earnings from abroad and withdraw them in local currency to their local bank accounts.

Withdraw in local currency instantly

You no longer need to wait days to get paid. Withdrawals arrive in your chosen local bank account within minutes, providing fast access to funds.

Opening a US bank account is easy and free

Open a free US bank account in just 3 minutes using only your ID. There is no complicated paperwork and no account opening, maintenance, or monthly fees.

Powered by Stripe and Lead Bank

US bank accounts are opened at Lead Bank through Cenoa’s partner Stripe, one of the largest payment platforms in the US. In 2024, Stripe processed $1.3 trillion in payments, supported by industry-leading security and compliance systems.

Easily receive all your global earnings

Get paid directly from any US bank account via ACH, the US local payment system. This includes payouts from Amazon, Etsy, Shopify, Upwork, Fiverr, and more or direct international clients.

Fast and real customer support

Cenoa provides fast support from real people, not bots, directly through the app. Users can also reach support anytime at support@cenoa.com.

Security, compliance, and trust

Secure international payments require strong compliance and infrastructure. The U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency outlines best practices for banking security and operational resilience in cross-border finance.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Can I receive international payments in Turkey, Nigeria, or the Philippines?
Yes, but choosing the right method is essential to reduce fees and delays.

2. What is the fastest way to receive international payments?
Using a US bank account with instant local withdrawals is one of the fastest options.

3. Are US bank accounts legal in these countries?
Yes, US bank accounts are commonly used for international earnings.

4. How long do withdrawals take with Cenoa?
Withdrawals arrive in local bank accounts within minutes.

5. Which platforms can pay into Cenoa?
Amazon, Etsy, Shopify, Upwork, Fiverr, and direct clients via ACH.

6. Does Cenoa charge monthly fees?
No, there are no opening, maintenance, or monthly fees.

Conclusion

Understanding how to receive international payments in Turkey, Nigeria, and the Philippines is essential in 2025. High fees, delays, and currency losses can significantly reduce earnings. With US bank accounts and modern payment infrastructure, global earners can receive payments faster, cheaper, and with more control. Cenoa makes this process simple, secure, and built for today’s global economy.