Upwork has introduced Wise Platform as a new infrastructure partner to improve international payment options for freelancers.
The move allows users in selected markets to receive faster cross-border transfers when withdrawing earnings to their local bank accounts. According to Upwork, freelancers in parts of South America, the Asia-Pacific region and Europe will now have transfers routed through Wise’s network when using the ‘Direct to Local Bank’ option. This method is one of several withdrawal options available to freelancers via the platform’s account settings.
Supporting and expanding international transfers
Representatives from Upwork said that incorporating Wise’s infrastructure helps freelancers in selected regions access quicker and more flexible payments. They added that the partnership may later expand to cover additional markets, reflecting the company’s efforts to keep pace with demand in over 180 countries.
Wise officials described the agreement as a way to increase the efficiency of cross-border transactions for independent workers. They noted that freelancers are an increasingly important part of the global workforce and require reliable ways to move their earnings.
Recent research from Upwork indicates that 28% of US skilled workers are engaged in freelancing or independent work. Worldwide, freelancers on the platform generate close to USD 4 billion annually. Industry analysts say the growing professionalisation of freelancing is driving demand for more advanced financial tools.
Wise’s payments infrastructure connects directly to six payment systems and holds more than 70 licences globally, with around 70% of transactions completed in under 20 seconds. Upwork joins other firms such as Google, Morgan Stanley, Brex and Ramp in partnering with Wise Platform for international money movement.
