Last Updated: January 14, 2026
TL;DR (Quick Summary)
This guide covers everything you need to know about wise problems & solutions: pakistan guide. Includes practical steps and tips for Pakistani freelancers.
Wise Problems & Solutions: Pakistan Guide
Payment Methods Comparison for Pakistani Freelancers
| Method | Withdrawal Fee | Transfer Time | PKR Support | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Payoneer | 1% | 1-2 days | Yes | Best Overall |
| Wise | 0.5-1% | 1-3 days | Limited | Best Rates |
| Bank Wire | $25-50 | 3-5 days | Yes | Large Amounts |
| Western Union | $10-20 | Minutes | Cash | Urgent Only |
Common Issues with Wise in Pakistan
Freelancers in Pakistan often encounter various issues with Wise, from withdrawal failures to account rejections. Let’s delve into some of the most common problems and how to tackle them.1. Can't Withdraw from Wise
I remember my first payout from a project I completed on Upwork. It was $500, and I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. I had linked my Wise account to my HBL bank account, expecting a smooth withdrawal. Instead, I ran into issues. Here’s why this might happen:- Insufficient Funds: If your Wise account balance is not enough to cover the withdrawal fees, the transaction will fail.
- Bank Restrictions: Some Pakistani banks have specific policies regarding international transactions, which can lead to failed withdrawals.
- Incorrect Account Details: Double-check that the bank account details you provided to Wise are accurate.
- Ensure your Wise account has sufficient funds to cover the withdrawal fee (typically around $1 or 1% depending on the amount).
- Verify your bank account details and ensure your bank accepts international transfers.
- If you continue to face issues, reach out to Wise customer support for assistance.
2. Wise Payment Failed in Pakistan
Another hurdle I faced was payment failures when clients sent money through Wise. It was frustrating, especially when I had deadlines to meet. Here are some reasons why this could happen:- Profile Verification Issues: Wise requires certain documents to verify your identity. If your profile is not fully verified, payments may fail.
- Currency Restrictions: Make sure your clients are using the right currency when sending payments.
- Technical Glitches: Sometimes, the Wise platform experiences technical issues that can disrupt transactions.
- Ensure all your documents are uploaded and your profile is verified as per Wise's guidelines.
- Confirm with your clients that they are sending funds in the correct currency (USD works best for us).
- Stay updated on Wise's status page for any technical issues that might be affecting transactions.
3. Why Wise Rejected My Profile
Getting your profile rejected can be disheartening. I faced this issue initially when I signed up. Wise is quite strict about its verification process, particularly for freelancers in Pakistan. Common reasons for profile rejection include:- Inadequate Documentation: If the documents you provide don’t meet Wise’s requirements, your profile will be rejected.
- Inconsistent Information: Ensure that the details you provide match your identification documents.
- Country Restrictions: Wise has certain restrictions on accounts based in specific countries, which can lead to rejections.
- Review Wise's document requirements and ensure you provide everything needed.
- Submit clear, high-quality copies of your documents.
- Contact Wise’s customer support for clarity on why your profile was rejected.
4. Wise Blocked My Account
I had a panic moment when Wise blocked my account due to unusual activity. This can happen if they detect transactions that don't align with your profile or if there are compliance concerns. Here’s how to handle it:- Security Concerns: Wise may block accounts that they suspect are compromised or involved in fraudulent activities.
- Failure to Comply: If you don’t meet their verification requirements, your account can be blocked.
- Unexpected Transactions: Large or frequent transactions that differ from your usual activity can trigger a security block.
- Contact Wise customer support immediately to understand why your account was blocked.
- Provide any requested documentation promptly to facilitate the review process.
- Be patient, as account reviews can take some time, but stay proactive in following up.
My Experience: Learning from the Hurdles
Freelancing has been a transformative journey for me. I started with a modest income of around $300 per month, but over five years, I’ve managed to earn over $100,000 through platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. However, overcoming issues with payment gateways like Wise was part of that learning curve. In one instance, after completing a project worth $1,200, I faced a payment failure because my Wise account wasn’t fully verified. I learned the hard way that rushing through the setup could lead to headaches later on. I also discovered that while Wise was an option, it wasn’t the only one. Given that **PayPal doesn’t work in Pakistan**, I shifted my focus to **Payoneer**, which is more reliable for us freelancers. Payoneer offers a $25 bonus for new users and integrates seamlessly with platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, allowing me to withdraw directly to my HBL or MCB account without hassle.Practical Tips for Pakistani Freelancers
Navigating the payment landscape as a Freelancer in Pakistan can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can streamline your financial transactions. Here are some actionable tips:- Opt for Payoneer: It’s a reliable alternative to Wise and provides direct withdrawals to your local bank account (HBL, MCB, UBL).
- Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from Wise regarding account policies and requirements.
- PSEB Registration: Consider registering with the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), as it can provide resources and support for freelancers.
- Keep Records: Maintain proper documentation of your earnings and transactions to simplify tax filing with FBR.
- Engage with the Community: Join local freelancing groups on Facebook or LinkedIn to share experiences and get advice from others in Pakistan.
Conclusion
Freelancing can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges, especially regarding payments. If you’re facing issues with Wise, remember that you’re not alone, and there are solutions available. By being proactive, staying informed, and choosing the right payment methods like Payoneer, you can overcome these hurdles and continue to thrive in your freelancing career. Don't hesitate to reach out for help when you encounter obstacles. The freelancing community in Pakistan is strong, and together, we can navigate these challenges towards achieving financial freedom.Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wise work in Pakistan?
Wise works with limitations in Pakistan. You can send money via Wise but receiving directly to a Wise account is difficult. Most freelancers use Payoneer instead.
What's the difference between Wise and Payoneer?
Payoneer is specifically designed for freelancers and works better in Pakistan. Wise has lower fees but limited functionality in Pakistan.
What's the best way to receive dollars in Pakistan?
For Pakistani freelancers, Payoneer is the best method. It works with Fiverr, Upwork, and most platforms, and transfers easily to Pakistani banks.