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Individuals

Receiving a foreign currency payment on Shine: how much does it really cost (and how to pay less)

Freelancer working on her laptop

Shine is the preferred business account for many freelancers and small businesses. And when a client abroad pays you in dollars or Swiss francs, everything seems simple: you give your IBAN, and the money arrives in euros. But between the invoice issued and the amount credited, several fees slip in.

An account that only receives in euros

According to Shine's online help, the account only receives euros: any transfer in foreign currency is automatically converted before being credited. Shine uses a partner to access the SWIFT network. You therefore choose neither the timing nor the conversion rate.

Fees, item by item

  1. The receiving commission: €6 excl. VAT per transfer with the free offer, €5 excl. VAT from the Start offer, according to Shine's pricing structure.

  2. Interbank fees: intermediary banks in the SWIFT network may charge a commission on the amount sent.

  3. Conversion: the applied rate includes a margin compared to the interbank rate. Shine displays the details of the fees in the account after receipt.

Numerical example

A consultant bills a US client USD 3,000 per month. With a €5 commission, potential intermediary fees and an exchange margin, she can lose several tens of euros per payment, amounting to several hundred euros per year, without having anticipated this in her pricing.

How to pay less

  • Bill in euros when possible: a Swiss or British client can pay in euros by SEPA transfer, with no receiving fees.

  • Request the OUR option from the client for SWIFT transfers, so that they cover the intermediary fees.

  • Receive on a multi-currency account if your foreign currency receipts become regular, then repatriate the euros to Shine at the best time.

Shine and OSolto: complementary

Shine remains perfect for day-to-day management. When your foreign currency receipts grow, OSolto, an independent broker registered with ORIAS, helps you choose the right multi-currency account with an authorised partner and obtain transparent exchange conditions, without changing your main account.

Are you regularly paid in foreign currencies? Speak to an OSolto expert, with no obligation. → Book an appointment

FAQ

Can you receive dollars on a Shine account?

Yes, via SWIFT, but they are automatically converted into euros before being credited.

How much does it cost to receive an international transfer on Shine?

€6 excl. VAT per transfer with the free offer, €5 excl. VAT from the Start offer, plus potential interbank fees and the exchange margin.

Is a transfer in euros from abroad subject to charges?

If it goes through SEPA, no. If it transits through the SWIFT network, receiving fees may apply.