The Ultimate Guide to International Payments in 2025
International payments are an essential lever for French companies that import or export. However, they remain a source of complexity: hidden costs, deadlines, exchange rate fluctuations, regulatory compliance... In 2025, the cross-border transaction landscape is changing rapidly with the rise of fintechs, digitalization and new regulations.
What are the best payment methods for international trade? How to reduce costs and optimize the management of financial flows? This guide helps you navigate this universe and avoid costly mistakes.
Why are international payments crucial for businesses?
In an interconnected world, businesses need to be able to pay their suppliers and collect payments without experiencing delays or additional costs. Behind a simple transfer abroad, several issues are hidden.
• Cost : A foreign currency transfer involves fixed fees, a commission on the exchange rate and sometimes hidden fees. Some banks charge up to 50 euros per transaction.
• Deadlines : A payment can be executed in a few seconds or take several days depending on the method used. The SWIFT network, although used worldwide, suffers from delays associated with multiple intermediary banks.
• Security and compliance : Businesses must comply with anti-money laundering obligations (KYC, LCB-FT).
Optimizing international payments is more than a simple transaction. It is a strategic lever for improving cash flow, reducing costs and securing operations.
What are the main methods of payment in international trade?
The choice of payment method depends on the country, currency, amount and degree of urgency. Here are the most common solutions in 2025.
Bank transfers: SEPA and SWIFT
Bank transfers are the most used solution for B2B international payments.
• The SEPA transfer is ideal for transactions in euros in the 36 countries of the SEPA zone. It's fast (24 to 48 hours), inexpensive, and secure. In 2025, instant SEPA transfers are widespread, allowing immediate transfers 24 hours a day.
• SWIFT transfer (or Non SEPA) is essential for payments in currencies outside the eurozone. It connects over 11,000 banks in 200 countries but involves higher fees and processing times of up to five days.
For businesses that make recurring currency transactions, opening a multi-currency account helps to avoid unnecessary conversions and to benefit from better rates.
International bank cards
Credit and debit cards are convenient for quick payments, especially in B2B and B2C. However, they have several limitations.
• High fees : Foreign currency transactions generate commissions, often between 1.5% and 3%.
• Payment limits : Not suitable for large amounts.
Online payment platforms
Fintechs specializing in international payments are growing rapidly and offering alternatives to traditional banks.
These platforms offer solutions with reduced fees and simplified currency management:
• Lower cost than banks,
• Real-time currency conversion with more competitive rates,
• Integration with accounting management software.
However, a good part of these platforms impose restrictions on the amounts or geographical areas covered.
Blockchain and cryptocurrencies
Blockchain-based payments are gradually becoming an alternative to traditional payments.
• Stablecoins : Cryptocurrencies backed by fiat currencies (USDT, USDC, EURC) allow fast and almost free transactions.
• Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) : The European Union plans to launch the digital euro by 2027, while China is already using its digital yuan for cross-border payments.
By 2026, 75% of large businesses plan to integrate blockchain into their transactions. However, regulatory uncertainty is still hampering their adoption.
To summarize about payment methods
Each payment method has advantages and disadvantages.
• SEPA : fast and economical in euros,
• SWIFT : essential for foreign currencies but expensive and slow,
• Fintechs : flexible and competitive but sometimes limited,
• Blockchain : promising but still poorly regulated and complex to implement.
Challenges and pitfalls to avoid in international payments
Cross-border payments are far from being a simple money transfer. Behind every transaction are financial risks, hidden costs, and regulatory hurdles. Here are the top mistakes to avoid.
Hidden fees and exchange rate margins
An international transfer may seem trivial, but bank fees can add up quickly. In addition to fixed fees, some banks apply a margin on the exchange rate, sometimes difficult to identify.
• A payment of €50,000 in dollars can generate a difference of several hundred euros depending on the bank chosen.
• Some platforms charge reception fees for incoming currency transfers.
Solution : Compare offers from banks and fintechs, check for hidden fees and choose solutions that offer total transparency on conversion rates.
Long and unexpected processing times
The processing time for an international payment varies depending on the method used and the banks involved.
• One SEPA bank transfer is usually run under 24 to 48 hours, or even instantly.
• One SWIFT transfer may take up to five working days, especially in the event of intervention by intermediary banks.
• Additional delays may occur in the event of Bank holidays in the country of the beneficiary.
Solution : Anticipate deadlines, use instant transfers when available and check the working days of the corresponding banks before making a payment.
Exchange rate fluctuations and lack of coverage
Currency variations can have a significant impact on transaction costs.
• Between January and September 2024, the euro fluctuated by 5 to 10% against the dollar, leading to significant cost differences for importers and exporters.
• A company that does not cover its currency risks may see its profitability affected by unexpected fluctuations.
Solution : Use futures Or currency options to set a rate in advance and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Regulatory compliance and new obligations
International payments must comply with strict rules, especially when it comes to Combating money laundering (KYC, LCB-FT) and tax compliance.
• Since 2025, European companies must report carbon emissions related to their imports under the MACF CBAM.
• Banks and fintechs apply transaction verification procedures to prevent financial risks and fraud.
Solution : Ensure that its transactions comply with local and international regulations, and use automated tools to simplify the monitoring of fiscal and environmental obligations.
Solutions and best practices to optimize international payments
Reducing costs, speeding up deadlines and securing payments requires the adoption of best practices and adapted solutions.
Compare providers and their rates
Not all payment solutions are created equal. To avoid excessive fees and benefit from the best conditions, it is crucial to assess several criteria before choosing a provider.
• Traditional banks : adapted to large transactions but often more expensive and slow.
• Fintechs and online platforms : flexible, fast and often more economical for foreign currency payments.
• Blockchain and stablecoins solutions : still emerging but promising for instant and low-cost payments.
Checking the fees applied to foreign currency transfers, exchange rates and any hidden fees allows you to optimize transactions.
Give priority to instant transfers and local payments
Les instant SEPA transfers And the local currency payments allow you to speed up transactions and reduce fees.
• By using local partner banks, businesses can avoid the costs associated with intermediary banks.
• Some providers such as Keewe offer payments in local currencies at no additional cost, thus facilitating transactions with foreign suppliers.
Automate payment management
Managing payments manually can lead to errors, delays, and a lack of visibility into financial flows.
• Businesses that automate their payments reduce their processing costs 30 to 50%.
• The integration of a solution of multi-currency management allows payments, exchange rates and cash flow to be monitored in real time.
Platforms like Keewe offer automated payment management with simplified access to even the most exotic currencies and total transparency on costs.
To recap on international payments risks and solutions
Optimizing your international payments requires a adapted strategy :
• Anticipate deadlines and currency fluctuations.
• Compare providers to avoid hidden fees.
• Automate transactions to increase efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with new regulations.
In the next section, we'll look at how to choose the best solution based on your needs and the innovations that are transforming the sector in 2025.
How do I choose the best international payment solution?
With the rise of fintechs and changing regulations, businesses need to be more strategic in choosing their international payment solution. The wrong choice can lead to hidden costs, delays, or regulatory complications.
Cost and transparency of fees
Traditional banks often charge high fixed fees, plus exchange rate margins and intermediary fees. On the other hand, some fintechs offer more transparent solutions with competitive conversion rates and the elimination of hidden fees.
A SWIFT transfer can quickly reach €50 in fixed fees, not including the costs associated with correspondent banks. Online payment platforms reduce these costs by offering interbank rates adjusted in real time.
Good reflex: Always compare offers and choose a solution with a clear display of costs, especially on exchange rates.
Fast and efficient transactions
An international payment can be instant or take several days depending on the method chosen.
• The SEPA transfers are fast and inexpensive for euro transactions in Europe.
• The SWIFT network, although secure, can cause delays of up to five working days depending on the intermediary banks.
• The fintechs and alternative platforms often allow payments in a few hours, or even in real time for some local currencies.
Processing times can impact businesses' cash flow and slow down their operations. Good foresight and the use of instant payments can avoid these inconveniences.
Multi-currency flexibility and coverage
Businesses operating internationally often have to juggle multiple currencies.
• One multi-currency account avoid unnecessary conversions and reduce costs.
• The payments in local currencies make it possible to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
• One hedging strategy can protect against currency fluctuations.
For optimized management, it is essential to opt for a solution that offers access to a wide range of currencies, including exotic or emerging currencies.
Integration with business management tools
Integration with accounting and ERP software facilitates the monitoring of payments and optimizes cash management.
• Payment APIs automate transactions, reducing the risk of errors.
• Real-time visibility on incoming and outgoing payments improves liquidity management.
Businesses should focus on solutions that are compatible with their existing tools to avoid tedious and costly manual management.
The trends to follow in 2025 in international payments
International payments are undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by digitalization and new regulatory requirements.
Generalization of instant transfers
The SEPA Instant has established itself in Europe, allowing payments in euros in less than 10 seconds, 24/7. SWIFT is also modernising its network with SWIFT GPI, which reduces delays and offers improved transaction traceability.
Businesses are now prioritizing these fast solutions, reducing their dependence on traditional SWIFT transfers.
Rise of digital currencies and stablecoins
The stablecoins CommIn USDC, USDT or EURC are attracting more and more businesses for their cross-border payments.
• Instant transactions and low costs compared to traditional banks.
• No dependence on traditional banking networks.
Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) like The digital euro Or the Digital yuan could upset the market in the coming years.
Automation and artificial intelligence
AI is revolutionizing payment management by offering predictive solutions.
• Optimizing exchange ratesand in real time.
• Automatic fraud detection and risks of non-compliance.
Fintechs are integrating more and more algorithms capable of reducing costs and improving the security of international payments.
Evolution of fintech solutions and integrated payments
Fintechs are constantly innovating with payments integrated directly into management tools.
• Direct access to interbank rates in real time.
• Foreign exchange risk management and automated recurring payments.
• Multi-currency solutions optimized for businesses operating internationally.
Businesses are increasingly adopting these platforms to simplify the management of their payments and improve their profitability.
Conclusion: Why is Keewe the ideal solution for your international payments?
Faced with the challenges of international payments, Keewe offers an innovative solution, combining transparency, speed and security.
• Multi-currency payments with no hidden fees, with ultra-competitive exchange rates.
• An intuitive interface and automated payments, integrated with corporate accounting and ERP tools.
Keewe stands out by allowing businesses to gain efficiency, reduce transaction costs and comply with new environmental obligations by measuring the carbon footprint of payments.
Take action! Learn how Keewe can transform your international payments management and simplify your cash flow today.
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