How to Pay Indian Software Developers, Contractors & IT Agencies in 2026 (Zero SWIFT Markup + e-FIRC)
When US or European startups pay remote Indian developers or SaaS/IT agencies via PayPal or retail wire, 4% to 6% disappears in FX markups and intermediary bank fees. Using modern cross-border rails maximizes the developer's net INR payout while automatically providing RBI-compliant Foreign Inward Remittance Certificates (e-FIRC / FIRA):
- 1. Wise & Revolut for Instant Contractor & Agency Payouts: Send USD, GBP, or EUR via Wise ($600 fee-free initial transfer invite) or Revolut for instant IMPS/NEFT settlement and automated digital FIRA issuance.
- 2. Web3 & Global USDC Bounties via Coinbase: Pay global Web3 contributors in USDC with $0 conversion fee on Coinbase.
- 3. Large Enterprise & Subsidiary Capital Transfers ($10,000–$500,000+): Use OFX or Skydo for high-value B2B invoice settlements.