Start on Toptal: Ultimate Guide for Bangladeshis to Earn ...

Last Updated: January 15, 2026

How to Start on Toptal: Complete Guide for Bangladeshis (2026)

When I first stumbled upon Toptal, it felt like discovering a hidden gem in the freelancing world. I was sitting in my apartment in Dhaka, scrolling through different platforms, trying to find the right fit for my skills as a software developer. I had already made a decent living on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork, but Toptal promised higher-end clients and more significant projects. Fast forward a few years, I found myself earning upwards of $200 per hour, a stark contrast to the average Bangladeshi salary of about BDT 20,000 ($200) per month. In this guide, I’ll share how to get started on Toptal, how to withdraw your earnings in Bangladesh, and practical tips to help you thrive as a Freelancer.

Understanding Toptal

Toptal stands out among freelancing platforms due to its rigorous screening process. They claim to accept only the top 3% of applicants. This means you need to be at the top of your game. Here’s how to prepare and what to expect.

The Application Process

1. Initial Screening: Toptal starts with a short online questionnaire to assess your skills.
2. Technical Assessment: Depending on your field, you'll undergo a technical interview, which could involve coding tests or case studies.
3. Live Screening: This is a real-time interview where you’ll solve problems in front of a Toptal evaluator.
4. Test Project: Finally, you’ll need to complete a paid test project to demonstrate your skills in a real-world scenario.

I remember my test project well. I was nervous but focused. It took me about two weeks to prepare, but once I submitted my project, I felt a huge sense of accomplishment. The best part? I got accepted!

How to Earn Money on Toptal

Once you’re on board, the real work begins. Here’s how to maximize your earnings:

• High-Quality Projects: Toptal connects freelancers with high-paying clients, often leading to projects that pay $60 to $300 per hour.
• Build a Strong Profile: Highlight your unique skills and past work experience. Include specific projects that showcase your abilities.
• Networking: Engage with other freelancers and clients on the platform. I’ve landed several high-paying gigs just by being active in the community.

Withdrawing Your Earnings in Bangladesh

One of the most crucial aspects of freelancing is understanding how to access your hard-earned money. Unfortunately, PayPal does not work in Bangladesh. But don't worry; there's a solution.

Using Payoneer

Payoneer is a reliable payment method for Bangladeshi freelancers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to withdraw from Toptal using Payoneer:

1. Set Up a Payoneer Account: If you don’t have one yet, sign up at Payoneer.com. You may receive a $25 bonus after your first withdrawal.
2. Link Toptal to Payoneer: In your Toptal account settings, choose Payoneer as your payment method.
3. Withdraw Funds: Once you’ve completed a project and received payment, you can withdraw the funds to your Payoneer account.
4. Transfer to Bangladeshi Bank: You can then transfer your Payoneer funds to your Bangladeshi bank account, such as DBBL, MCB, or UBL, with minimal fees.

I remember my first withdrawal. I received $1,000, which converted to about BDT 85,000. After the Payoneer fees and bank transfer costs, I still had more than enough to celebrate my success with family and friends.

Toptal vs. Upwork: Which is Better for Beginners?

Both Toptal and Upwork offer unique benefits, but they cater to different types of freelancers. Here’s a quick comparison:

Upwork

• Lower Barrier to Entry: Upwork is generally easier to join, making it ideal for beginners.
• Wide Range of Projects: You can find anything from fast gigs to long-term contracts, but the pay is often lower.
• Hourly and Fixed Rates: You can choose how you want to bill your clients.

Toptal

• Higher Pay: You can earn much more, with hourly rates often exceeding $100.
• Quality Clients: The clients on Toptal are usually startups or established companies looking for top-tier talent.
• Rigorous Screening: The application process is stringent, which can be a drawback for beginners.

In my experience, starting with Upwork helped me build my portfolio and gain confidence. Once I had some solid projects under my belt, I transitioned to Toptal, where I could leverage my skills for higher pay.

My Experience: What I Learned

Navigating the freelancing world has been a rollercoaster ride. I faced numerous challenges, from clients who didn’t pay to projects that didn’t go as planned. However, I learned valuable lessons along the way:

• Client Relationships Matter: Building rapport with clients can lead to repeat work and referrals. I’ve had clients come back to me for multiple projects because of the trust we built.
• Continuous Learning: The tech field evolves rapidly, and staying updated is crucial. I invested in online courses to refine my skills.
• Time Management: Balancing multiple projects can be tricky. I started using tools like Trello and Asana to keep track of deadlines and deliverables.

Practical Tips: Next Steps

1. Create a Strong Profile: Use your Upwork portfolio to build your Toptal profile. Highlight your best projects and client testimonials.
2. Prepare for the Screening: Invest time in practicing coding problems or project management scenarios relevant to your field.
3. Use Payoneer for Payments: Make sure to set up your Payoneer account early. Familiarize yourself with the withdrawal process to avoid delays.
4. Network: Join online forums and communities for freelancers to share experiences and tips.

In conclusion, starting your journey on Toptal can be rewarding if you approach it with the right mindset and preparation. The potential earnings are significant, and with dedication, you can achieve financial freedom. Remember, the path to success may not always be smooth, but with perseverance, you can navigate it successfully. Whether you choose Toptal or stick with Upwork initially, focus on building your skills and reputation. Happy freelancing!

Key Points

• Freelancing from Bangladesh is completely legal and safe
• Payoneer is the most popular payment method
• DBBL and BRAC Bank offer the fastest transfers
• Fiverr is the best platform for beginners