Introduction
Trying to find the right international payment gateway to receive payments from clients abroad? We've got a cheat sheet for you!
You see, there are tons of platforms out there - all claiming to be the best. And if you're confused about which one actually works well for your business, we won't blame you. But worry not, we're here to help.
Here, we'll share the 10 best international payment gateways in 2025 that you can explore to find which one works best for your business.
What is an international payment gateway, and why does it matter?
An international payment gateway is a digital platform that helps you receive payments from overseas customers. It processes the payment online and takes care of currency conversion, so they can pay in their currency while you get the money safely in yours. It also supports different payment methods like cards and digital wallets, making it easy for customers to pay in the way they prefer.
These gateways also:
- Convert foreign currency into INR.
- Provide FIRA and FIRC certificates.
- Follow global compliance rules and guidelines.
Why might you look for an international payment gateway?
If you serve customers in other countries, you need a payment system that is quick and reliable. An international payment gateway for freelancers, SaaS companies, and exporters ticks all those boxes. Here's why it's worth looking for one:
1. Faster settlements
Even a slight delay in payments can affect your cash flow and slow down work. An international payment gateway avoids this hassle. It processes cross-border payments quickly, often within just a day. This ensures you don't end up waiting weeks for funds to arrive.
2. Multi-currency settlement
Your customers - regardless of their location - should be able to pay in their own currency without confusion. The payment gateway takes care of conversions and deposits the final amount in INR. This removes the constant back-and-forth with rates and calculations.
3. Transparent conversion rates
Traditional wire transfers often come with hidden fees and high FX markups. International payment gateways typically have transparent pricing, so you know the exact amount that you will receive. This saves your money from disappearing into charges and helps you keep more of what you earn.
4. Flexible payment methods
One customer may prefer to pay via bank transfer. Another might find cards or payment links more convenient. A gateway that supports multiple options reduces checkout friction, providing a smooth payment experience for customers.
5. Compliance support
Exporters in India need documentation like e-FIRCs and purpose codes for every foreign payment. A reliable gateway generates these automatically, so you don't have to worry about paperwork later.
Key criteria for choosing the right international payment gateway
To select an international payment gateway, think about what your business actually needs. Then, check the transaction fees, supported payment methods, security, and integrations.
1. Business needs
Start by understanding what you expect from the gateway. If you're a freelancer, you might only need a simple way to send payment links. A growing SaaS company, on the other hand, may need recurring billing or automated invoicing. Some exporters may even need a dedicated merchant account to manage higher volumes. Once you know exactly what it is that you're looking for, it'll become a lot easier to look in the right direction.
2. Transaction costs
Different payment gateways have different pricing structures. Some may charge a setup fee and monthly fees. Others may only charge you per transaction. Don't forget to consider extra costs like chargeback or currency conversion fees as well. This will help you estimate the actual cost of integrating the platform.
3. Payment methods and currency support
Select a gateway that supports how your customers like to pay. For example, if most of your customers use cards, make sure the gateway handles card payments smoothly. And if a lot of your buyers are from Europe, pick a gateway that supports EUR.
4. Security and compliance
The international payment gateway should follow standards like PCI DSS. It should also use strong encryption to protect payment data. See if it offers fraud monitoring and complies with local laws of the regions you operate in.
5. Integration and support
The gateway should work well with your website, accounting software, or e-commerce system. Easy integration saves time and reduces errors. Also, look at the quality of customer support. When dealing with international payments, quick help can prevent delays and confusion.
Top international payment gateways
You can choose from several international payment gateways. Some of the best providers include Xflow, PayPal, Stripe, Adyen, WorldPay, 2Checkout (Verifone), Checkout.com, Amazon Pay, Sage Pay, and Payoneer.
| Platform | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xflow | Virtual accounts (25+ currencies), fast payouts, clear FX rates, auto eFIRA, flexible withdrawals, strong security | Quick settlements, transparent pricing, multi-currency support, reliable customer support | Fewer currencies than some global players, limited control over exact FX timing |
| PayPal | Works in 200+ countries, supports 25 currencies, accepts major cards | Easy setup, simple payment links, globally trusted | High fees and conversion charges, some features limited for Indian users |
| Stripe | Custom checkout, global card support, recurring billing, 135+ currencies, powerful API | Highly customizable, ideal for SaaS & tech teams, good subscription support | Invite-only in India, high cross-border fees, no FIRA provided |
| Adyen | Global payments, multiple payment methods, fraud control, real-time reporting | Strong security, supports online and in-store payments | Complex integration, best for larger companies |
| WorldPay | Payments in 120+ currencies, fraud tools, reporting, online and offline support | Big global network, multiple payment options, works for POS & online | Long contracts, confusing pricing, setup can be complicated |
| 2Checkout (Verifone | Supports 200+ countries, 100+ currencies, 45+ local methods, easy integration, fraud checks | Wide international reach, no monthly fees, simple setup | High transaction fees, possible account holds, advanced features may cost extra |
| Checkout.com | 150+ currencies, fraud detection, dispute management, strong dashboard | Smooth API, good customer support, strong dispute handling | Higher pricing, fewer local payment options in some regions |
| Amazon Pay | Uses Amazon login, recurring billing, major card support, fraud protection | Familiar and easy for customers, simple integration | Supports fewer currencies, limited global reach compared to others |
| Opayo (Sage Pay) | Multi-currency support, invoicing, recurring billing, fraud checks | Simple, reliable, strong customer support | Basic reporting capabilities, recurring setup can be confusing |
| Cashfree | Accepts global cards, multi-currency payments, fast settlements, easy platform integrations | Quick setup, developer-friendly, works with multiple platforms | Fees add up for large transfers, requires compliance documents |
1. Xflow
Xflow is a payment platform for Indian freelancers, SMBs, and enterprises who work with global clients. It makes accepting cross-border payments simple, fast, and transparent. Unlike traditional banks or conventional payment platforms, Xflow lets you receive money directly into a merchant account or an EEFC account in multiple currencies. Plus, there are no hidden fees or long clearance times.
Xflow lets you receive your international payments fast, often within a day. Plus, every time you withdraw money, the platform automatically generates the required eFIRA documents, so you don't have to worry about paperwork. It also gives you clear FX rates and an easy-to-use dashboard.
Key features:
- Virtual Receiving Accounts in 25+ currencies: Let customers pay via local bank transfers directly to your account.
- Fast settlements: Payments reach your Xflow Receiving Account instantly or within hours via RTP and Fedwire.
- Transparent FX rates: Know exactly how much INR you will receive before conversion, with no hidden markup.
- Automated compliance: Digital eFIRAs are issued within 24 hours for every withdrawal.
- Flexible withdrawals: You can withdraw any amount whenever you need, and the money will arrive in your bank account by the next working day.
- Dashboard and API: Everything - from payments and invoices to FX rates and compliance - can be handled in one place through the dashboard or via API.
- Enterprise-grade security: Xflow is ISO 27001 and SOC 2 certified.
Pros:
- Fast and predictable cash flow.
- Transparent pricing with low fees compared to traditional banks and gateways.
- Reliable multi-currency support.
- Auto-generation of invoices and eFIRA.
- Responsive customer support.
Cons:
- Limited currency options.
- Limited control over the exact timing of FX conversion.
Pricing:
- Starter (for invoices under $3,500): $12 for invoice value up to $2,000 and 0.6% for invoices exceeding $2,000.
- Growth (for invoices between $2,000 and $10,000): $20 for invoice value up to $5,000 and 0.4% for invoices exceeding $5,000.
- Scale (for invoices exceeding $10,000): Custom pricing.
G2 rating: 4.9/5
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2. PayPal
PayPal is among the most well-known names in online payments. As such, many businesses choose it for international transactions. It is also simple to set up. You can start receiving payments immediately as soon as your account is verified.
PayPal also offers a wide global reach with availability in over 200 countries. You can also use this payment gateway to send invoices, track your payments, and manage everything from a laptop or mobile app.
Key features:
- Global reach: Works in more than 200 countries and supports 25 currencies.
- Easy setup: There is no setup fee or yearly charges. You can begin receiving payments right away.
- Flexible payment methods: Customers can pay using major cards like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, even if they don't have a PayPal account.
- Payment links and buttons: You can share a "Pay Now" link or add a payment button to your site to make it easy for clients to pay.
- Buyer protection: PayPal offers refund and return support.
- Quick settlements: Payments usually reach your bank account within 24 hours.
Pros:
- Accepted in over 200 countries.
- Trusted brand that builds customer confidence.
- Supports major cards and easy payment links.
- No setup or maintenance fees.
- Mobile-friendly with app and web access.
Cons:
- High transaction fees and currency conversion costs.
- Limited flexibility in India, such as no PayPal balance retention or debit card access.
- Some features may be restricted for Indian users.
Pricing:
- Payflow Link: $0 per month
- Payflow Pro: $25 per month
G2 rating: 4.4/5
3. Stripe
Stripe is another international payment gateway you can consider. It is especially popular among SaaS companies, online stores, and tech startups. If you already have a website or app, it lets you design the payment experience the way you want. Its APIs are also easy for developers to work with. This allows you to create a checkout process that fits your brand's style.
Stripe supports over 135 currencies and works in 195 countries. This makes it another good option for businesses dealing with global clients. Freelancers can also use it for subscription or recurring payments. However, it is generally best for those who have some technical knowledge.
Key features:
- Customizable checkout experience: You can either use Stripe's ready-made payment form or a Stripe-hosted page and match it to your brand.
- Global card support: Accept payments from major cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Diners, and China UnionPay.
- Recurring payments and subscriptions: It automatically charges customers every month and handles plan changes.
- Multi-currency support: You can receive payments in 135+ currencies.
- API and dashboard tools: You get a clean dashboard and strong developer tools to manage payments, invoices, and reports.
Pros:
- Customizable checkout and payment pages.
- Accepts most major credit and debit cards globally.
- Supports automated subscriptions.
- Quick payment settlements for card transactions.
Cons:
- Invite-only in India.
- High fees for cross-border payments.
- Does not provide FIRA.
Pricing:
- Standard: $3 for cards issued in India and $4 for cards issued outside India
- Custom: Available on request
G2 rating: 4.3/5
4. Adyen
Adyen is a global payment gateway and financial technology platform for businesses operating internationally. It combines everything you need to accept payments - gateway, processor, and acquirer - into one platform. This allows you to accept payments in over 30 currencies and from a wide variety of payment methods, including major cards and alternative payment options.
Adyen works well for larger businesses that are expanding and need a strong, secure payment system. It can handle payments both online as well as in physical stores. The platform also gives you real-time data on your transactions, which can come in handy to understand customer behavior and improve conversions.
Key features:
- Global payment processing: Accept payments in 30+ currencies and from customers across multiple regions.
- Multiple payment methods: Supports a wide range of payment options, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets, etc.
- Fraud prevention and risk management: Built-in tools to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions.
- Real-time reporting: Provides detailed transaction data and analytics to monitor payments, revenue, and customer behavior.
- Authorization optimization: Adyen improves approval rates for transactions by managing payment routing.
- Omni-channel support: Handle both online and in-store payments from a single platform.
Pros:
- Wide global reach with multi-currency support.
- Strong security measures and fraud prevention.
- Real-time insights for better decision-making.
- Supports both online and in-store transactions.
- Dedicated customer support for enterprise clients.
Cons:
- Complex integration that may need developer support.
- Fees vary depending on payment method and region.
- Primarily designed for larger businesses.
Pricing:
Fixed processing fee ($0.13) + payment method fee
G2 rating: 3.7/5
5. WorldPay
WorldPay (now FIS Global) is a payment service that lets you receive payments anywhere - on the website, in the app, or at the store. It supports over 126 currencies across 50 countries and offers more than 300 alternative payment methods. This lets you give more flexibility to customers in terms of making payments using their preferred option.
Key features:
- Global currency support: Accept payments in 126+ currencies, reaching international customers without restrictions.
- Multiple payment methods: Supports cards, e-wallets, mobile payments, and over 300 alternative payment options.
- Omnichannel processing: Single platform to manage online and in-store payments.
- Security and fraud protection: Built-in tools to detect fraud and protect customer data.
- Reporting and analytics: Track transactions, monitor revenue, and get insights into customer behavior.
Pros:
- Strong global presence.
- Supports multiple currencies and markets.
- Wide variety of payment options.
- Omnichannel capability for online and offline payments.
- Detailed reporting to track business performance.
Cons:
- Long-term contracts, typically 3 years.
- Pricing varies depending on package, region, and transaction type.
- Complex integrations.
Pricing: Available on request
G2 rating: 2.9/5
6. 2Checkout (verifone)
2Checkout (now part of Verifone) also lets you accept payments from customers worldwide. It works in over 200 countries and supports more than 100 currencies.
It also supports more than 45 local payment methods. This simple perk gives your customers the flexibility to pay in a way that they are most comfortable with. 2Checkout is especially a good choice for European businesses as it has a strong presence in the region. In fact, it also offers European payment collection options at no extra cost.
Key features:
- Global reach: Accept payments from more than 200 countries and in 100+ currencies.
- Multiple payment methods: Credit and debit cards, PayPal, and e-wallets.
- No monthly fees: You only need to pay a percentage per transaction.
- Fraud detection and prevention: Built-in tools to prevent fraudulent transactions.
- Easy integration: Integrates with websites, apps, and e-commerce platforms.
Pros:
- Wide international reach.
- Flexible payment options.
- No monthly fees.
- Built-in fraud detection.
- Simple integration process for websites and e-commerce platforms.
Cons:
- Transaction fees can be high compared to some competitors.
- Potential account holds or freezes in certain situations.
- Some advanced features come with additional charges.
Pricing:
- 2Sell: 3.5% + $0.35 per successful sale
- 2Subscribe: 4.5% + $0.45 per successful sale
- 2Monetize: Tailored pricing
- 4Enterprise: Available on request
G2 rating: 3.9/5
7. Checkout.com
Checkout.com is an all-in-one payment solution. It merges a merchant account with an international payment gateway, all in one platform. It can process payments in over 150 currencies and is available in more than 5 countries. The best part? It also supports local payment methods.
Checkout.com has a simple interface and strong fraud protection. This makes it another good choice for small-scale businesses looking for simple, secure payment processing.
Key features:
- Global payment support: Accept payments in 150+ currencies and over 45 countries.
- Multiple payment methods: Checkout.com can process payments via cards, wallets, transfers, vouchers, and more.
- Fraud detection and authentication: Built-in tools detect and prevent payment fraud while simplifying compliance and authentication.
- Issuing and payouts: Create physical and virtual cards, and transfer funds directly to bank accounts or cards.
- Identity verification: AI-powered video verification for KYC and document checks.
- Dispute management: Manage chargebacks and disputes efficiently through the platform.
- Dashboard and reporting: A single platform to manage payments, monitor finances, and track transactions.
- Treasury and FX management: Refine cash flow and handle currency exchange needs.
Pros:
- User-friendly platform with simple setup.
- Strong customer support.
- Strong dispute handling tools for chargebacks and monitoring.
- Easy API integration for online platforms.
- Supports global payments with local acquiring options.
Cons:
- High pricing and fees.
- Limited local payment methods and installment options.
- Some advanced analytics and features are missing compared to competitors.
Pricing: Available on request
G2 rating: 4.6/5
8. Amazon Pay
This is a payment gateway offered by Amazon. And since many people are already familiar with Amazon, it can help you build credibility and increase conversions. It lets customers make payments on other sites using the same account they use on Amazon.
Amazon Pay supports 12 currencies and is available in 18 countries. It also has a user-friendly API, making it pretty easy to connect with your online store. It is a solid choice if you want something simple, affordable, and that works with multiple currencies.
Key features:
- Multi-currency support: Accepts payments in 12 currencies across 18 countries.
- Multiple payment methods: Customers can pay using credit and debit cards as well as some local payment options.
- Amazon account integration: Customers can check out quickly using their Amazon credentials.
- Fraud protection: It has built-in tools to detect and prevent fraud.
- Recurring billing: Supports subscription-based payments.
- Express payouts: The gateway transfers funds to your bank account within 24 hours.
Pros:
- Simple and familiar for customers who already have Amazon accounts.
- Easy integration with existing online stores.
- Low fees compared to some other international gateways.
- Supports recurring billing and express payouts.
Cons:
- Limited availability.
- Supports fewer currencies compared to some competitors.
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
9. Opayo (Sage Pay)
Opayo, formerly known as Sage Pay, is a payment gateway that works for businesses of all sizes. It handles multiple currencies and accepts payments through major credit and debit cards, e-wallets, and PayPal. This makes it a lot convenient for international customers to pay.
It also connects with accounting and ERP systems, so you can handle invoices, bank reconciliations, and supplier payments all from one place.
Key features:
- Multi-currency support: Opayo accepts payments in multiple currencies.
- Multiple payment methods: Support for credit/debit cards, PayPal, and e-wallets.
- Invoice and billing management: Generate invoices with Pay Now buttons for quick customer payments.
- Bank and accounting integration: Connects to your bank for automatic reconciliation.
- Recurring payments: Supports automated debit orders for regular payments.
- Fraud detection: View transaction details, including risk indicators, to reduce fraudulent activity.
- Real-time payment tracking: Makes it easier to monitor successful and failed transactions.
Pros:
- Intuitive and simple to use.
- Easy multi-currency processing.
- Clear transaction details and fraud risk indicators.
- Strong customer support.
- Supports recurring and automated payments.
Cons:
- Limited reporting information.
- Recurring account setup and interval settings can be confusing.
Pricing: Available on request
G2 rating: 4.2/5
10. Cashfree
Cashfree is an Indian payment gateway designed to help businesses accept both domestic and international payments. It is ideal for startups, freelancers, SaaS platforms, and D2C brands that work with global clients.
The payment gateway supports international card payments, multi-currency processing, and settlements in INR. This makes it much easier for Indian businesses to handle international payments from one place.
Key features:
- International card acceptance: Supports popular card networks, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Maestro.
- Multi-currency support: Receive payments in INR and over 30 foreign currencies.
- Real-time settlements: Funds from international payments are credited quickly to your account.
- Easy integration: Integrates with Shopify, WooCommerce, Wix, and even WhatsApp.
- Transparent fees: Cashfree provides clear pricing for international transactions and conversions.
Pros:
- Accepts payments from global card networks.
- Supports multiple currencies.
- Quick and reliable settlements.
- Easy integration with popular e-commerce and business platforms.
- Developer-friendly API for more customized payment solutions.
Cons:
- Costs can add up for large transfers.
- High international payment fees.
- Needs documentation like PAN, bank details, GST registration, etc.
Pricing:
- Varies depending on payment mode.
- Charges for international cards are 2.95% - 2.99% (based on card type).
G2 rating: 4.5/5
How to choose the right gateway for your business use case?
The right international payment gateway should support the payment methods and currencies you need. It should also offer competitive foreign exchange fees, strong security features, and seamless integrations.
1. Supported payment methods and localization
Look for a gateway that accepts the payment types your customers prefer - both locally and globally. For example,
- Credit and debit cards
- Digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay
- Bank transfers
- Local options like Alipay in China or SEPA in Europe
This makes the checkout process easier, improving conversions.
2. Multi-currency support
The gateway you select should be able to accept and settle payments in multiple currencies. This helps reduce hidden foreign exchange fees and gives you more control over when and how conversions happen.
3. FX fees and pricing
Comb through the provider's fee structure carefully. Look for FX margins, transaction fees, and any other charges so you don't get caught off guard with surprises. Make sure to compare different providers on currency conversion fees, subscription charges, and chargeback fees.
4. Security and compliance
The gateway you choose should meet international security rules, such as PCI DSS. It should also include extra protections like fraud checks, tokenization, and two-step verification. These features make sure customer information stays safe and help earn their trust.
5. Integration and analytics
Your payment gateway should work easily with your website and other business tools. It's even better if it gives you reports and analytics to understand your customers, sales trends, and overall revenue. This information can help you make better decisions and plan your next steps with confidence.
How do international gateways handle multi-currency transactions?
International payment gateways let your customers pay in their own currency and then convert the money into your main currency. This process is called currency conversion and uses the latest exchange rate.
Here's how it works:
- At the time of checkout, customers see exactly how much they will pay in their currency.
- You can set up your gateway to accept different currencies to let customers pay in the one they prefer.
- The gateway typically lets you add a small extra fee on top of the exchange rate to cover the cost of converting money.
- After the payment is done, the money is sent to your account. You can choose to keep it in the same currency or change it to INR.
Security, compliance, and fraud prevention in global payments
When you accept payments from other countries, security and compliance are very important. A good payment gateway should use SSL or TLS encryption. This helps keep data safe while it moves online. It should also use tokenization and multi-factor authentication to protect card and account details.
Fraud detection tools add another layer of safety. How? By monitoring transactions in real time for suspicious activities. Many gateways also follow standards like ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type II to ensure all sensitive payment information is safe. Based on the regions you serve, the gateway should also follow important regulations, such as:
- PCI DSS
- PSD2/PSD3
- AML/KYC
- GDPR
- CCPA
Conclusion
So that was our roundup of the top international payment gateways in 2025. Keep in mind, not every option will suit your business. To find the right one, compare them based on what matters most to you. If you want a simple, fast, and transparent solution, Xflow is worth considering. It:
- Supports multiple currencies
- Settles payments quickly
- Handles compliance automatically
- Offers an easy-to-use dashboard
With Xflow, you won't have to worry about delays or hidden fees. You can focus on scaling your business instead.
Sign up today and see how it can make receiving international payments simple and hassle-free.
Frequently asked questions
An international payment gateway lets you receive payments from customers in other countries and in their local currencies. A domestic gateway only works within one country and handles just that country's currency.
International payment gateways help businesses accept payments from customers in other countries. They also help them grow globally, keep payments safe, and follow local rules.
To select the right international payment gateway, look for
- Supported payment methods and currencies
- Transaction fees
- Security features
- Integration capabilities
Many gateways support multiple currencies and global cards. Xflow, Stripe, Adyen, WorldPay, and Opayo are a few.
The fees and FX margin for international payment gateways vary by provider. Costs include transaction fees and currency conversion margins. Some providers also have additional charges depending on the payment method.
Xflow is a great option for Indian businesses that want to receive payments from other countries. It lets you accept multiple currencies, sends money to your bank account within one business day, and automatically creates a FIRA for every withdrawal.
Select the gateway you want to use and create a merchant account. Then, get your API keys and connect the gateway to your site. Run a few tests and you're ready to start accepting payments.
International payment gateways follow worldwide security rules like PCI DSS and AML. They also use encryption and tokenization to keep sensitive information safe and lower the risk of fraud.



