How to Use Remitly in Bangladesh (2026)

Last Updated: January 15, 2026

How to Use Remitly in Bangladesh (2026)

I still remember the first time I received an international payment as a Freelancer. I was sitting in my small apartment in Dhaka, anxiously checking my phone every few minutes. I had just completed a project for a client in the US, and the payment was due. With no access to PayPal in Bangladesh, I had to explore other options. That's when I stumbled upon Remitly, and it changed the way I received payments forever.

In this guide, I want to share my experience using Remitly and other services like WorldRemit, Western Union, and Xoom to help you, fellow freelancers, navigate the world of international payments in Bangladesh. Let’s dive into how these platforms work and how you can use them to receive your hard-earned money without the hassle of PayPal.

Understanding Remitly and Its Benefits

Remitly is a popular online money transfer service that allows you to receive money from abroad quickly and conveniently. As a freelancer, this can be a game changer. Here’s why:

• Speed: Transfers can be instant or take up to a few hours, depending on the payment method chosen by the sender.
• Convenience: You can receive funds directly in your bank account or pick them up at a local agent location.
• Low Fees: Compared to traditional banks, Remitly often offers lower fees, which is crucial when you're trying to maximize your earnings.

When I first started using Remitly, I was pleasantly surprised. I received a payment of $500 from a client in the US, and the total fee was only $7.50. In Bangladeshi Taka (BDT), that’s about 825 BDT, which was a small price to pay for such a quick transfer.

Setting Up Your Remitly Account

To get started with Remitly, follow these simple steps:

1. Go to the Remitly website or download the app.
2. Create an account using your email address and a secure password.
3. Verify your identity by providing necessary documentation like your national ID or passport.
4. Add your bank account information for direct transfers. You can use banks like DBBL, MCB, or UBL.
5. Once your account is set up, you’re ready to receive payments!

Exploring Other Options: WorldRemit, Western Union, and Xoom

While Remitly is a fantastic option, it’s always Wise to have alternatives. Here’s a quick overview of other services you can use in Bangladesh:

WorldRemit

WorldRemit is another reliable option for receiving money from abroad. Similar to Remitly, it allows you to withdraw funds to your bank account or pick them up in cash.

• Fees: Typically range from $0.99 to $4.99 depending on the amount and destination.
• Transfer Time: Instant or within a few hours.

I once used WorldRemit to receive $300, and the fee was just $2.99, which was quite reasonable.

Western Union

Western Union is one of the oldest money transfer services. You can find their agents in almost every major city, including Dhaka and Chittagong.

• Fees: Varies based on the sending country and amount, but can be higher than online services.
• Transfer Time: Often instant, but can take longer in some cases.

I remember using Western Union once when I needed cash quickly. The process was straightforward, but the fees were higher compared to Remitly.

Xoom

Xoom, a service by PayPal (which we know doesn’t work in Bangladesh), allows users to send money directly to your bank account or for cash pickup.

• Fees: Starting from $4.99, depending on the service chosen.
• Transfer Time: Usually instant.

While I never had the chance to use Xoom due to PayPal restrictions, I’ve heard positive feedback from others who have found it effective.

Receiving International Payments Without PayPal

As a Bangladeshi freelancer, you’ll quickly realize that PayPal is not an option. This can be frustrating, but there are reliable alternatives.

When I first started freelancing, I relied heavily on Payoneer. It is a fantastic solution that allows you to receive payments from various platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and direct clients. The best part? You get a $25 bonus when you receive your first payment.

Payoneer also integrates seamlessly with these payment services, allowing you to withdraw funds to your local bank accounts, such as DBBL, MCB, or UBL, at competitive rates.

Banking Considerations

When receiving international payments, it's essential to consider how to withdraw your funds. Here’s what I learned:

• Choose a bank that supports international transfers.
• Ensure you have the necessary documentation ready for your bank, as they may need to verify the source of funds.
• Be aware of the exchange rates and fees applied by your bank for currency conversion.

For instance, when I received $1,000 through Payoneer, I was able to withdraw it to my DBBL account with a conversion rate of 86 BDT per dollar. After fees, I received around 86,000 BDT, which was a significant amount for my work.

My Experience: Overcoming Challenges

When I first began freelancing, I faced many challenges, especially regarding payment processing. I remember a time when a client from Australia wanted to pay me through PayPal. I was devastated when I realized it wasn’t an option. It took me a while to find alternatives, but once I discovered Remitly and Payoneer, my income started to stabilize.

The key was to stay persistent and explore different banking options available. I learned to always compare fees and transfer times to ensure I was making the best choice for my finances.

Practical Tips for Receiving Payments in Bangladesh

As we wrap up, here are some practical tips to help you on your journey as a freelancer receiving payments in Bangladesh:

1. Choose the right platform: Depending on your needs, pick the best service (Remitly, WorldRemit, Western Union, or Xoom).
2. Use Payoneer: Sign up for Payoneer to receive payments from various freelancing platforms.
3. Stay informed: Keep an eye on exchange rates and fees to maximize your earnings.
4. Documentation: Have all necessary documents ready for your bank to avoid any delays in receiving your funds.
5. Network: Connect with other freelancers to share experiences and tips about payment methods.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of international payments as a freelancer in Bangladesh doesn’t have to be complicated. While PayPal may not be available, services like Remitly, WorldRemit, Western Union, and Xoom provide excellent alternatives. My own journey taught me the importance of persistence and adaptability.

With the right knowledge and tools, you can successfully manage your payments and focus on what you do best: delivering exceptional work. Remember, the key is to keep exploring options and never hesitate to reach out for help when you need it. Happy freelancing!