Last Updated: January 14, 2026
TL;DR (Quick Summary)
This guide covers everything you need to know about payoneer vs skrill pakistan. Includes practical steps and tips for Pakistani freelancers.
The Ultimate Guide: Payoneer vs Skrill for Pakistani Freelancers
Quick Platform Comparison for Pakistan
| Platform | Best For | Commission | Payment Methods | Min. Payout |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiverr | Beginners | 20% | Payoneer, Bank | $10 |
| Upwork | Professionals | 10-20% | Payoneer, Wire | $100 |
| Freelancer | Variety | 10% | Payoneer | $30 |
| PeoplePerHour | UK Clients | 20% | Payoneer | $50 |
As a Freelancer in Pakistan, receiving international payments can sometimes feel like navigating a labyrinth. With PayPal being unavailable in our country, many freelancers turn to alternatives like Payoneer and Skrill. Both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your freelancing success. In this guide, we'll dive into the specifics of Payoneer and Skrill, providing you with practical steps and tips to make the best decision for your needs.
Understanding Payoneer and Skrill
What is Payoneer?
Payoneer is a robust online payment platform that allows freelancers and businesses to receive international payments. It supports various currencies and provides a prepaid MasterCard that can be used worldwide. For Pakistani freelancers, Payoneer offers a reliable way to access funds and transfer them to local banks.
What is Skrill?
Skrill is another online payment solution that allows users to send and receive money globally. It also offers a prepaid card and supports multiple currencies. While it can be a viable option, many Pakistani freelancers have found it less favorable compared to Payoneer due to higher fees and limited functionalities.
Key Features Comparison
1. Fees
Understanding the fee structure is crucial when choosing a payment platform:
- Payoneer: Typically, Payoneer charges a 1% fee for receiving payments and a 2% fee for currency conversion. Withdrawing funds to your local bank account incurs a flat fee, which can be lower than Skrill’s fees.
- Skrill: Skrill charges a higher fee for international transfers (up to 5% depending on the currency) and additional fees for currency conversion. This can add up quickly for freelancers receiving regular payments.
2. Accessibility and Banking Integration
Both platforms allow you to link with Pakistani banks, but their integration varies:
- Payoneer: You can link Payoneer with major Pakistani banks like HBL, MCB, UBL, Meezan Bank, and Allied Bank. This integration allows for easy withdrawal of funds in PKR.
- Skrill: While Skrill allows withdrawals to Pakistani banks, many users report delays and complications, making it less reliable for local transactions.
3. User Experience
User experience can make or break your relationship with a payment platform:
- Payoneer: Users generally find Payoneer’s interface user-friendly with responsive customer support. The onboarding process is straightforward, and they provide a dedicated account manager for business accounts.
- Skrill: While Skrill’s interface is also user-friendly, some users have reported issues with customer service response times, which can be frustrating when dealing with urgent payment issues.
4. Currency Options
Freelancers often work with clients across the globe, making currency flexibility essential:
- Payoneer: Supports over 150 currencies, allowing freelancers to receive payments in their client’s preferred currency.
- Skrill: Also supports multiple currencies but is limited compared to Payoneer in terms of global reach.
Practical Steps to Get Started
How to Sign Up for Payoneer
- Visit Payoneer’s website.
- Click on 'Sign Up' and choose your account type (individual or business).
- Fill in the required details such as your name, email, and address.
- Upload the necessary documents for verification, such as your CNIC or passport.
- Once your account is approved, you can link it to your Pakistani bank account.
- Receive your Payoneer prepaid MasterCard at your registered address.
How to Sign Up for Skrill
- Go to the Skrill website.
- Click on 'Register' and enter your details.
- Verify your identity by uploading the necessary documents.
- Link your bank account or card for withdrawals.
Pros and Cons
Payoneer
- Pros:
- Lower fees compared to Skrill.
- Easy withdrawal to Pakistani banks.
- User-friendly interface and responsive customer support.
- Bonus of $25 when you receive your first $1000.
- Cons:
- Limited availability for certain countries.
- Account approval may take time.
Skrill
- Pros:
- Supports multiple currencies.
- Allows for cryptocurrency transactions.
- Cons:
- Higher fees and less favorable exchange rates.
- Withdrawal complications reported by users.
Conclusion
For Pakistani freelancers, the choice between Payoneer and Skrill largely depends on your specific needs and how you plan to receive payments. Payoneer stands out due to its lower fees, better integration with local banks, and overall reliability. While Skrill offers some advantages, the complications and higher costs may deter many freelancers.
If you're serious about your freelancing career and want a reliable solution for receiving international payments, sign up for Payoneer today and take advantage of the $25 bonus when you receive your first $1000! Start making your freelancing journey smoother and more profitable.
In summary, understanding the differences between these two platforms will help you make an informed decision. Choose wisely and watch your freelancing business thrive!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Payoneer work in Pakistan?
Yes, Payoneer works perfectly in Pakistan. You can receive payments from Fiverr, Upwork, and other platforms to Payoneer and transfer to your Pakistani bank.
How do I transfer from Payoneer to Pakistani bank?
Log into Payoneer, select Withdraw > To Bank Account, choose your Pakistani bank, enter amount. Funds arrive in 2-5 business days.
What are Payoneer fees?
Payoneer charges about 2% for withdrawal to Pakistani banks. ATM withdrawal costs $3.15. Currency conversion has a 2% fee.