Exploring the Airwallex Payment Gateway

Airwallex is a payment gateway that helps businesses send, receive, and manage international transactions. The platform provides tools such as borderless accounts, currency exchange, and secure payment processing within one system. Airwallex differs from traditional banks as it operates as a modern financial technology platform designed to support businesses with global payment needs.

So let’s take a closer look at the Airwallex Payment Gateway and how it works for businesses. We’ll also explore Wise Business as an alternative solution in the international payments space.

Discover Wise Business: Simplify Your International Finances
Wise makes it easier to manage your business finances. You can manage everything from one app, there are no monthly fees, and international payments use the mid-market rate. It also integrates smoothly with accounting software to keep your operations running efficiently.
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Table of contents

What Is a Payment Gateway Understanding Airwallex Payment Gateway Fees Airwallex Payment Methods for Local and Global Transactions Credit and Debit Card Payments Bank Transfers for Local and International Payments Digital Wallets for Global Customer Reach How Airwallex Supports Local and Global Transactions Why Airwallex Is an Option for Online Payments Comparing Airwallex Payment Gateway to Traditional Banking Solutions Why Airwallex Is An Option for Online Payments Final Thoughts Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is a Payment Gateway

A payment gateway is a secure technology that enables businesses to accept and process online payments from customers.¹ It acts as a bridge between your website or app and the customer’s bank, so that sensitive card details are encrypted and transactions are authorized in real time.³ The Airwallex Payment Gateway takes this a step further by supporting multiple currencies and offering a variety of Airwallex payment methods such as credit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets.²

The Airwallex Payment Gateway includes features suitable for businesses engaged in cross-border transactions such as:

• international coverage
• support for multiple currencies
• tools for secure payment processing¹

Understanding Airwallex Payment Gateway Fees

Choosing a payment gateway can be difficult with the many options available, but cost is a major consideration. The Airwallex Payment Gateway fees are designed to be competitive and transparent, so businesses save on transaction costs.¹ SomeAirwallex publishes a pricing outline that details the fees associated with its services, which helps businesses understand the costs involved. Providers add hidden charges, whereas Airwallex provides a clear pricing outline so you know exactly what you’re paying for.³ Fees vary depending on the Airwallex payment methods used, such as credit cards, bank transfers or digital wallets, and the currencies involved.²

For international online payments, Airwallex’s rates often undercut traditional banks, due to better foreign exchange margins and lower processing costs.¹ Combined with the Airwallex Payment Gateway features like multi-currency support and fast settlements, the rates themselves can make a significant difference for businesses handling high transaction volumes.³

Account Fees

• Account Opening: Free¹
• Monthly Maintenance: None¹
• Minimum Balance Requirement: None¹

Transfer Fees

• Local Transfers (Singapore): Free via FAST and GIRO²
• International Transfers:
  • Local Payment Rails: Free to over 120 countries²
  • SWIFT Transfers: S$20–S$35 per transaction²

Foreign Exchange (FX) Markups

• Major Currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, SGD): 0.4% above interbank rates³
• Other Currencies: 0.6% above interbank rates³

Card & Payment Gateway Fees

• Domestic Card Transactions: 1.65% + A$0.30 per transaction⁴
• International Card Transactions: 3.40% + A$0.30 per transaction⁴
• Local Payment Methods (Alipay, WeChat Pay, etc.): From $0.30 + applicable method fee⁴

Corporate Cards

• Issuance: Free for virtual and physical cards⁵
• Transaction Fees: No international transaction fees⁵
• Cashback: Unlimited 1% on all purchases⁵

Additional Notes

• No hidden fees, transparent pricing¹
• Global Reach: Supports 150+ countries and 60+ currencies³
• Fast Transfers: ~90% of transactions processed within hours (one business day)²

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Wise Business Could Help Your Company Save on Global Payments

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Airwallex Payment Methods for Local and Global Transactions

The Airwallex payment methods are built to give businesses flexibility in accepting and sending funds both locally and internationally.² Customers can make online payments via credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and popular digital wallets, so buyers can enjoy convenience in different markets.³ Not to mention, with multi-currency support, the Airwallex Payment Gateway supports acceptance of payments in more than 180 currencies, which gives merchants the ability to transact with customers across different regions without needing separate payment setups.¹

Credit and Debit Card Payments

One of the most widely used Airwallex payment methods is credit and debit cards. This option allows businesses to process online payments from customers worldwide, supporting major card networks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.² Card transactions are processed through the Airwallex Payment Gateway, which follows Airwallex Payment Gateway fees and settlement times.¹ This makes it easier for merchants to maintain cash flow while providing customers with a familiar, convenient payment experience.

Bank Transfers for Local and International Payments

Bank transfers are another essential option within the Airwallex payment methods portfolio. For local transactions, Airwallex connects to domestic banking networks, which can sometimes offer faster processing and reduced costs compared to traditional wire transfers.³ For cross-border payments, the Airwallex Payment Gateway leverages real-time foreign exchange rates to help minimize conversion fees and improve transparency.¹ The flexibility allows businesses to receive online payments directly into their Airwallex multi-currency accounts, often on the same day.²

Digital Wallets for Global Customer Reach

Digital wallets are becoming increasingly popular, and Airwallex supports a variety of them as part of its Airwallex payment methods. This includes widely used services such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and other region-specific wallets.³ These particular options can be useful for businesses selling internationally, as they provide customers with familiar and trusted online payment tools. The Airwallex Payment Gateway supports wallet payments and outlines the associated fees, which allows merchants to evaluate this option alongside other payment methods. Integration is typically straightforward, meaning businesses can add digital wallet acceptance to e-commerce platforms, apps, and custom websites with minimal effort.²

How Airwallex Supports Local and Global Transactions

The Airwallex Payment Gateway is built to manage payments seamlessly across both local and international markets.¹ For domestic transactions, it connects to local banking networks, which helps enable faster settlements and reduced processing costs.³ Its diverse Airwallex payment methods, including cards, bank transfer, and digital wallets, so that customers can choose the most convenient way to complete online payments.²

For businesses operating internationally, the Airwallex Payment Gateway provides multi-currency accounts and real-time FX rates to facilitate cross-border transactions. The platform also publishes its fees, so merchants have visibility into associated costs. Also, it integrates with various e-commerce platforms and includes features such as security compliance and fraud protection to support global payment processing.¹

Why Airwallex Is an Option for Online Payments

The Airwallex Payment Gateway is designed to support businesses with international transactions.¹ In addition to processing payments, it provides tools that can assist with scaling to global markets.³ Some of the most important features of Airwallex Payment Gateway include multi-currency accounts, real-time FX rates, and instant settlements, which are designed to support companies handling international transactions.²

The available Airwallex payment methods, such as cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets, provide flexibility for customers to choose their preferred payment option.³ The Airwallex Payment Gateway fees are clearly outlined, and competitive exchange rates aim to help businesses manage costs compared to some traditional providers.¹ Security measures, including encryption and compliance protocols, are also in place to safeguard transactions.² These combined elements make the platform suitable for both startups and larger enterprises that need efficiency in payment processing.³

Comparing Airwallex Payment Gateway to Traditional Banking Solutions

When comparing the Airwallex Payment Gateway to traditional banks, several distinctions can be observed in terms of support, especially if you plan to use multiple currencies, which can present challenges for businesses handling online payments.¹ The Airwallex Payment Gateway uses modern technology designed for faster settlements, more transparent Airwallex Payment Gateway fees, and integration with e-commerce platforms.²

Airwallex provides several solutions for businesses handling payments, but there are some limitations that you should be aware of. Airwallex supports multiple currencies and global transactions, but certain payment methods may not be available in all markets, which could restrict your flexibility as a business owner.¹

Not to mention, as with many digital payment platforms, transaction fees and FX markups may accumulate for businesses with frequent or high-volume cross-border sales, which can impact overall margins.³

One last thing to think about is Airwallex's online presence. Airwallex operates primarily online, but businesses that prefer traditional banking support or in-person services may find the experience harder to navigate. Airwallex does have a customer support phone number, but most customers are directed to email Airwallex for support, and it may take days for a response.⁴ It can be nerve-wracking if you need help urgently, but you’re stuck waiting for help via email.¹

Why Airwallex Is An Option for Online Payments

The platform supports both local and international transactions and offers several payment methods, so customers have some flexibility in how they pay. It also includes features such as multi-currency accounts, real-time FX rates, and quick settlements, which can help businesses manage transactions in multiple currencies. Airwallex provides transparent fees and exchange rates, as well as security measures including encryption and compliance standards for online payments. These capabilities may be useful for some businesses, but it’s important to consider other providers, such as Wise Business, to determine which solution aligns best with your specific payment needs and operational requirements.

Save Time and Money On Overseas Payments With Wise Business

Wise Business can help you save big time on international payments.

Wise is not a bank, but a Money Services Business (MSB) provider and a smart alternative to banks. The Wise Business account is designed with international business in mind, and makes it easy to send, hold, and manage business funds in currencies.

Signing up to Wise Business allows access to BatchTransfer which you can use to pay up to 1000 invoices in one go. This is perfect for small businesses that are managing a global team, saving a ton of time and hassle when making payments.

Some key features of Wise Business include:

• Mid-market rate: Get the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden fees on international transfers

• Global Account: Send money to countries and hold multiple currencies, all in one place. You can also get major currency account details for a one-off fee to receive overseas payments like a local

• Access to BatchTransfer: Pay up to 1000 invoices in one click. Save time, money, and stress when you make 1000 payments in one click with BatchTransfer payments. Access to BatchTransfer is free with a Wise Business account

• Auto-conversions: Don't like the current currency exchange rate? Set your desired rate, and Wise sends the transfer the moment the rate is met

• Free invoicing tool: Generate and send professional invoices

• No minimum balance requirements or monthly fees: US-based businesses can open an account for free. Learn more about fees here

Use Wise Business >>

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Airwallex Payment Gateway is a modern approach to handling both local and international transactions, combining speed, transparency and flexibility in a single platform. By providing a wide range of Airwallex payment methods, including cards, bank transfers and digital wallets, it allows businesses to cater to diverse customer preferences while maintaining operational efficiency.

Whether a business is just starting out or already established, the Airwallex Payment Gateway features are designed to support growth and make payment operations more efficient, so businesses can optimize their business strategy for online transactions.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How secure is the Airwallex Payment Gateway?

Security is a core element of the Airwallex Payment Gateway, with measures designed to protect both businesses and customers.² The platform uses encryption to secure sensitive payment data during transactions and complies with global security standards to reduce the risk of fraud.¹ It also supports tokenization, which replaces card details with unique identifiers, making online payments safer for recurring customers.³ The above protocols apply across all Airwallex payment methods, including cards, bank transfers and digital wallets, so there’s consistency in security.²

Can Airwallex be integrated with my existing e-commerce platform?

Yes, the Airwallex Payment Gateway offers integration with a wide range of e-commerce platforms, mobile apps and custom systems.² This flexibility allows businesses to embed Airwallex payment methods directly into their checkout process.³ Once integrated, you can accept online payments from customers worldwide, settle funds in multiple currencies, and manage transactions through a single dashboard.²

What currencies can I accept with the Airwallex Payment Gateway?

The Airwallex Payment Gateway supports over 180 currencies, so it’s suitable for businesses that serve diverse markets.¹ Through its multi-currency accounts, merchants can receive online payments in the customer’s local currency and hold, convert or transfer funds as needed.² This is what helps reduce foreign exchange costs, especially when paired with real-time FX rates.³ Transparent Airwallex Payment Gateway fees also help you understand the cost of processing payments in each currency upfront.² The flexibility can be valuable for companies aiming to expand internationally without the limitations of single-currency banking arrangements.³

Does Airwallex work for both small businesses and large enterprises?

Yes, the Airwallex Payment Gateway is designed to support businesses of all sizes.¹ For small businesses and startups, its straightforward setup, range of Airwallex payment methods, and transparent Airwallex Payment Gateway fees make it accessible and budget-friendly.² Larger enterprises benefit from features like multi-currency accounts, real-time FX rates and scalable integration options for online payments.³

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Sources:

1. Airwallex Online Payments Gateway | WordPress Plugin
2. Payment Processing: What It Is and How It Works | Airwallex
3. eCommerce Payment Processing: What Is It & How It Works | Airwallex
4. Airwallex Reviews | Reddit