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Top Legal Alternatives to Stripe for International Payments

Exploring payment solutions: Discover the best apps for international financial transactions in India.

P
Pushpendra Agrawal
Sep 09, 2025

Introduction

Are international payments causing you sleepless nights? India’s booming digital payments market, on track to hit USD 1 trillion by 2030, presents both tremendous opportunities and unique challenges. Many businesses find themselves grappling with tangled regulations and surging fees when using popular solutions like Stripe. In 2025, however, the payment landscape is evolving. Why, you ask? Stripe may not fully support local nuances, prompting businesses to search for more tailored, cost-effective alternatives. Dive in as we explore reliable options to empower you in managing international transactions with ease and confidence.

Understanding the Basics: What Makes a Good Payment Gateway?

When selecting an international payment gateway, keep in mind key factors that ensure smooth operations. First and foremost, currency conversion capabilities are vital—they directly affect transaction costs. Consider the impact of transaction fees; in a market like India where every paisa matters, even small fees can add up quickly. Don’t overlook security: the gateway should be PCI-DSS compliant, ensuring robust protection for credit and debit transactions. And remember, responsive customer support is essential, especially in the face of cross-border challenges. Wouldn’t you agree that leaving these basics unchecked could risk your entire operation?

Why Explore Alternatives to Stripe?

You may wonder: if Stripe is so popular, why consider alternatives? Though Stripe offers robust functionality, it might not be the best fit for every business. Cost is a significant factor—Stripe’s fees can be high for small businesses working on tight margins. Additionally, limited local support and complex onboarding processes can hinder seamless integration. Specific sectors, particularly those requiring support for less common currencies or local payment methods, may find Stripe’s offerings a bit too generic. Isn't it time to consider a solution that truly aligns with your local Indian market’s needs?

Who Can Benefit from These Alternatives?

Stripe alternatives are designed to cater to a wide array of users in India. For example, e-commerce platforms can benefit from multiple payment options and localized assistance. Freelancers handling international clients enjoy reduced transaction costs, lightening their financial loads. Digital service providers and content creators dealing with a global audience gain through competitive exchange rates and lower fees. In short, if you’re involved in cross-border trade, switching to the right gateway can boost savings and enhance customer satisfaction. Isn’t it exciting to know there’s an option that fits like a glove?

Comparison Table: Evaluating Legal Alternatives to Stripe

App NameCurrency ConversionTransaction FeesSecurity MeasuresCustomer Support
PayPalYesCompetitive (Varies)PCI-DSS Compliant24/7 Support
RazorpayYesMinimalPCI-DSS & 2FA SecurityEfficient
PayUYesLowAdvanced SecurityRegional Support
PayoneerYesPayouts fees may applyRobust SecurityGlobal Service
InstamojoYesLower than AverageSecure & TransparentStandard
CCAvenueYesFlexible OptionsComprehensive Security24/7 Assistance
2Checkout (now Verifone)YesDynamic PricingAI-Driven Fraud ProtectionAvailable Round-the-clock
SquareLimitedRegional VarianceStrict ComplianceSupport Center
Authorize.NetYesCompetitive RatesComprehensive ProtectionPriority Support
AdyenYesTransparentIntelligent Risk MgmtIn-depth Support

📖 In Depth Reviews

We independently review every app we recommend We independently review every app we recommend

  • PayPal stands out as one of the most globally recognized payment platforms, simplifying the integration process while supporting over 100 currencies, which is a boon for international business. For Indian enterprises, PayPal presents competitive currency conversion rates with transaction fees starting at 3.4% + ₹10 per transaction. This is particularly beneficial for businesses and freelancers dealing with international clients, ensuring they can manage their transactions seamlessly.

    A standout characteristic of PayPal is its commitment to security through comprehensive buyer and seller protection, making it an excellent choice for e-commerce businesses and freelancers alike. Whether you're running an online store or providing services across borders, PayPal's security features help mitigate risks associated with digital transactions.

    Key Features:

    • Global Recognition: Renowned worldwide for its reliability, making it a trusted choice for international payments.
    • Simple Integration: Ease of integrating PayPal with various business platforms and systems.
    • Buyer and Seller Protection: Provides security against fraud and disputes, enhancing trust in online transactions.

    Pros:

    • Ease of Use: User-friendly interface that simplifies both receiving and making payments.
    • Robust Security Features: High security standards to protect users against fraudulent activities.

    Cons:

    • Higher Fee for Currency Conversion: Currency conversion can lead to additional fees, which might be considered high by some users.
    • Country Restrictions: Some countries have restrictions or are barred from using PayPal, which can limit its availability for global transactions.

    Best Use Cases:

    • Ideal for freelancers who work with international clients and need a reliable way to receive payments from various parts of the world.
    • E-commerce businesses that require a dependable payment gateway with global recognition and security.

    Overall, PayPal is an exceptional choice for those needing a global payment processor that offers strong security measures and easy integration, despite some limitations with fees and geographic restrictions.

  • Razorpay emerges as an industry leader in the Indian market for payment processing solutions, providing extensive support and features tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses. Supporting over 100 currencies, Razorpay facilitates smooth global transactions and offers continuous support with its 24/7 customer service. Notably, Razorpay charges a competitive transaction fee of 2% for international payments, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses aiming to expand overseas.

    Razorpay's intuitive dashboard is a standout feature that enables businesses to manage their financial operations with ease. Users can enjoy streamlined financial tracking, offering them insights at a glance and enabling instant settlements, thus enhancing financial efficiency.

    Key Features of Razorpay:

    • Multicurrency Support: With support for more than 100 currencies, Razorpay ensures seamless international transactions.
    • 24/7 Customer Support: Availability around the clock ensures you never face roadblocks alone.
    • Competitive Transaction Fees: A 2% transaction fee for international payments keeps costs low.
    • Intuitive Dashboard: Simplifies financial management with clear and user-friendly features.

    Pros:

    • Local Market Insight: Razorpay's understanding of the Indian market's unique needs underpins its robust solutions.
    • Cost Efficiency: Charging lower than average fees for the market makes it accessible for all business sizes.
    • Fluent Currency Support: Facilitation across a broad spectrum of currencies enhances global trade capabilities.

    Cons:

    • Online Transactions Only: Currently optimized only for online transactions which could limit some businesses.
    • Potential Setup Challenges: Initial setup may demand technical assistance which can complicate integration for non-technical users.

    Best Use Cases for Razorpay:

    • E-commerce Platforms: Businesses operating online stores can leverage Razorpay’s service for reliable payment processing.
    • Startups and SMEs: Ideal for growing businesses seeking economic yet comprehensive payment solutions.
    • Subscriptions and Billing Services: Using Razorpay for recurring payments and subscription management is a practical application.

    Razorpay is optimal for businesses looking for a locally-tailored, efficient, and cost-effective payment gateway, especially those operating within or servicing clients in India and beyond. Its range of features and competitive pricing make it a preferred choice among Indian startups and SMEs.

  • PayU is a highly acclaimed platform recognized for its robust and user-friendly payment solutions, aimed specifically at providing local payment methods that cater to businesses of various sizes. Its ease of use, coupled with comprehensive payment options, makes it a preferred choice for many businesses seeking efficient and reliable payment processing services. Notably, PayU is particularly beneficial for small businesses due to its pay-per-use pricing model, ensuring that businesses only incur costs when transactions occur.

    Key Features of PayU

    • Local Payment Methods: PayU supports a wide array of local payment methods, enabling businesses to cater to diverse customer preferences across different regions. This feature enhances the customer experience by allowing payments in familiar and preferred methods, increasing the likelihood of successful transactions.

    • International Transactions: With a fee structure of around 2% for international transactions, PayU offers competitive pricing that benefits businesses engaged in cross-border trade. This feature is essential for businesses looking to expand their market reach beyond local borders.

    • Hassle-Free Loans and Credit Offerings: PayU extends financial services beyond payment processing by offering loans and credit facilities. Such offerings are instrumental in helping businesses manage their cash flow effectively, addressing liquidity challenges and facilitating growth.

    • Fraud Protection: Advanced fraud protection mechanisms are integrated into PayU's platform, ensuring that transactions are secure and that businesses and customers are safeguarded against fraudulent activities. This system helps maintain trust and reliability within the payment ecosystem.

    Pros of Using PayU

    • Flexible Payments: PayU provides flexibility in payment options, ensuring that businesses can tailor their payment processes to suit the specific needs of their customers. This adaptability is a significant advantage for businesses seeking to offer convenience and choice at the point of sale.

    • Advanced Fraud Protection: The platform’s sophisticated fraud detection and prevention systems add an extra layer of security, which is crucial for maintaining trust with both domestic and international customers. The implementation of these systems ensures that businesses are well-protected from potential financial losses due to fraudulent activities.

    Cons of Using PayU

    • Occasional Integration Issues: Some users have reported issues with integrating PayU into their existing systems. These challenges can affect the seamless operation of the platform and may require additional technical support to resolve.

    • Customer Service Delays: While PayU offers a wide range of services, there have been instances of slow customer support response times. For businesses that require immediate assistance, this delay can be a potential drawback.

    Best Use Cases of PayU

    PayU is ideally suited for small to medium-sized businesses that require a payment gateway capable of handling both local and international transactions efficiently. It is also a great fit for businesses seeking additional financial services such as credit and loans to support cash flow. Industries ranging from e-commerce to service providers can benefit from PayU's flexible payment solutions and secure transaction environment.

  • Payoneer is an attractive payment solution tailored for freelancers and small businesses who frequently deal with transactions across Europe and America. Renowned for its efficiency in processing payments, Payoneer provides users with considerable savings through its competitive currency conversion rates. Usually charging around 1-3% on payouts, this platform ensures that users get more for their money while transacting internationally.

    Payoneer services are designed to streamline international business operations, offering features like multicurrency accounts and prepaid debit cards that can be used worldwide. These tools are particularly beneficial for businesses that need to manage transactions in multiple currencies, enabling seamless financial operations across borders.

    Key Features:

    • Multicurrency Accounts: Manage multiple currencies without the need for multiple bank accounts, simplifying international transactions.
    • Prepaid Cards: Offers convenience and accessibility for global withdrawals and online payments.
    • Competitive Conversion Rates: Save on costs with lower conversion rates compared to many traditional banking services.

    Pros:

    • Global Reach: Facilitates transactions across numerous countries, making it ideal for freelancers and businesses that have a client base in Europe and America.
    • Low Transaction Costs: Keeps your transaction fees minimal, benefiting your bottom line.

    Cons:

    • Exchange Rate Markup: Be aware of markups on exchange rates which can add additional costs over time.
    • Limited Analytics Tools: Falls short on providing extensive analytics capabilities, limiting insights into financial data.

    Best Use Cases:

    • Freelancers Working Internationally: Perfect for freelancers who handle clients and payments in different countries, especially within Europe and America.
    • Small Businesses With Global Clients: Ideal for small businesses that require a reliable and cost-effective way to manage international transactions and accounts in multiple currencies.

    Overall, Payoneer is a robust choice for those looking to streamline payment processes on a global scale, especially within Europe and America, with its cost-effective and feature-rich offerings tailored to suit the needs of freelancers and small businesses alike.

  • Instamojo: Empowering Small and Medium Enterprises with Localized Payment Solutions

    Instamojo is a dynamic payment gateway service tailored to meet the needs of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across India. With a strategic focus on providing competitive transaction fees and personalized services, Instamojo is a trusted platform for businesses looking to streamline their payment processes and expand their reach within the local market.

    Key Features of Instamojo

    • Competitive Transaction Fees: Instamojo offers a transaction fee of around 2%, making it cost-effective for SMEs operating on tight margins.
    • Localized Solutions: The platform offers unique services such as cash-on-delivery options and instant payment links, tailored for the Indian market to facilitate smoother transactions.
    • User-Friendly Interface: Designed with ease of use in mind, Instamojo provides an intuitive interface that doesn't require technical expertise, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
    • Comprehensive Support for SMEs: It provides a variety of tools and resources aimed at empowering small businesses, from digital storefronts to marketing tools.

    Pros of Using Instamojo

    • SME Focus: Instamojo's services cater specifically to the challenges faced by small and medium businesses, providing them with the necessary tools to succeed.
    • Integrated Solutions: By offering a suite of integrated services like online store setup and marketing support, Instamojo goes beyond being just a payment gateway.
    • Quick Setup and Onboarding: The platform offers a seamless onboarding experience, allowing businesses to start accepting payments almost instantly.

    Cons of Instamojo

    • Limited International Focus: While Instamojo excels in the Indian market, its services are primarily focused domestically, which may not be suitable for businesses aiming for an international customer base.
    • Basic Feature Set: Although sufficient for many SMEs, larger businesses might find the feature set limited compared to global competitors.

    Best Use Cases for Instamojo

    Instamojo is particularly beneficial for local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs in India who need an affordable, simple, and efficient way to manage payments and scale their businesses. It is ideal for those who prioritize a strong local presence over international reach, and for businesses that require a straightforward payment solution without unnecessary complexities or additional costs.

  • CCAvenue is a robust payment gateway in India, recognized for its extensive reach and high level of security. Supporting over 27 currencies, it provides merchants a broad scope for conducting business internationally. This multi-currency support is a significant advantage for businesses that cater to a global audience, allowing them to receive payments seamlessly, irrespective of geographical boundaries. CCAvenue also integrates a comprehensive suite of security measures, including CVV/capture verification, ensuring that all transaction data is safeguarded against unauthorized access and fraudulent activities.

    Key features of CCAvenue include dynamic currency conversion, multi-lingual checkout pages, and an intelligent transaction routing system that optimizes processing speed, thereby enhancing user experience. Additionally, clients benefit from real-time monitoring and analytics tools that offer insights into transaction trends, helping businesses make informed decisions.

    Despite these advantages, CCAvenue imposes a transaction fee of 3%, which could be a potential drawback for smaller startups or businesses operating on thin margins. This higher cost might impact profitability, particularly for those with a high volume of transactions. Furthermore, the setup process can be somewhat intricate, posing a challenge for businesses without dedicated technical support teams.

    Pros:

    • Extensive currency support aiding international transactions
    • High-level security protocols ensuring safe transactions
    • Real-time analytics and reporting features

    Cons:

    • 3% transaction fee may affect profit margins for startups
    • Setup process may require technical proficiency

    Best Use Cases: CCAvenue is ideally suited for established businesses or startups aiming to expand internationally and manage payments across different currencies efficiently. Industries that handle significant transaction volumes or businesses looking for a secure and reliable payment gateway will greatly benefit from its robust security features and comprehensive analytics tools. However, small businesses or startups should assess the impact of transaction fees on their financials before opting for CCAvenue.

  • 2Checkout is a renowned payment processing platform that excels in providing flexible payment options and superior fraud protection measures, making it an ideal choice for businesses aiming to expand their reach globally while maintaining secure transactions. With its ability to handle international transactions, 2Checkout supports businesses in selling their products and services worldwide efficiently.


    Key Features of 2Checkout:

    • Global Transaction Support: 2Checkout’s platform is designed to facilitate businesses in accepting payments from customers residing in different parts of the world. This is crucial for businesses planning international expansion.

    • Superior Fraud Protection: One of the stand-out features of 2Checkout is its commitment to security. It offers state-of-the-art fraud protection, ensuring that both businesses and customers are protected against potential fraudulent activities.

    • International Tax Compliance: With a focus on legal and tax compliance, 2Checkout helps businesses navigate the complexities of international tax regulations, removing the barrier of cross-border tax issues.

    • Competitive Conversion Rates: Even though it charges transaction fees starting from 3.5% + $0.35, 2Checkout provides competitive conversion rates which can enhance the profitability of global transactions.


    Pros of Using 2Checkout:

    • Global Transaction Support: Seamlessly accept payments from around the world, boosting your potential market.

    • Comprehensive Fraud Protection: High-level security measures to prevent fraud, providing peace of mind for both businesses and their customers.


    Cons of Using 2Checkout:

    • Higher Fees: The transaction fees start at 3.5% + $0.35, which is relatively higher compared to some of its competitors, making it a less cost-effective option for businesses focusing on minimizing expenses per transaction.

    • Limited Customizability: Businesses seeking extensive customization for their checkout experience might find 2Checkout somewhat limiting compared to other platforms that offer more personalized solutions.


    Best Use Cases for 2Checkout:

    • Businesses Focused on Security and Compliance: If your priority is to secure your transactions and comply with international tax laws, 2Checkout offers robust solutions to meet these needs.

    • E-commerce Platforms with International Presence: For e-commerce businesses that deal with a global audience, 2Checkout provides extensive support for international payments and tax management.

    • Subscription-based Services: Ideal for businesses involving recurring billing as it supports and simplifies subscription-based payment models efficiently.

    By carefully considering its beneficial features and weighing them against the associated costs and potential limitations, businesses can effectively decide if 2Checkout aligns with their processing needs and operational strategy.

  • Square is renowned for its versatile point-of-sale (POS) systems, which cater to both in-person and online transaction management with remarkable efficiency. Its reputation stems from its user-friendly interface that simplifies transaction processing for businesses of all sizes. Though Square's transaction fees may vary based on geographical location, its robust feature set and intuitive design make it an attractive choice for merchants worldwide.\n\nIn addition to facilitating payments, Square offers potent real-time analytics. These analytics furnish businesses with valuable insights, enabling strategic planning and informed decision-making. The analytics tools are customizable, allowing businesses to tailor reports to suit their specific needs and goals.\n\nSquare is equipped with a comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline business operations. This suite includes inventory management, customer directories, and employee management tools, among others. Such features are vital for businesses looking to integrate their operations seamlessly into one platform.\n\nKey Features:\n- Point-of-Sale Systems: Seamless integration that supports various payment methods, enhancing the checkout experience both online and offline.\n- Real-Time Analytics: Delivers actionable insights about sales trends, inventory status, and customer behaviors.\n- Customizable Features: The ability to personalize tools and reports to align with unique business needs.\n\nPros:\n- Comprehensive Suite: Offers a wide range of tools to manage different aspects of business operations effectively.\n- Strong Analytics: Provides detailed and actionable insights for better business strategies.\n\nCons:\n- Region-Specific Limitations: Some features or pricing structures may not be available or may vary significantly depending on the region.\n- Subtle Complexity in Pricing: Pricing can be a bit intricate to navigate, particularly for businesses operating in multiple locations.\n\nBest Use Cases:\nSquare is ideal for small to medium-sized retail businesses that need a cohesive and integrated POS system for managing their transactions. It's particularly beneficial for businesses that require robust analytics to drive sales strategies and those looking for a user-friendly platform that minimizes the learning curve for staff. Additionally, Square's flexible pricing and comprehensive features make it a sound choice for food and beverage businesses that need to streamline operations from inventory to sales reporting.

  • Authorize.Net is a reputable payment gateway owned by Visa, providing businesses with a highly secure and reliable platform for processing transactions. With its sophisticated security features such as tokenization and encryption, it ensures safe and seamless handling of sensitive payment information. This makes it an attractive choice for businesses looking to protect customer data and enhance user trust.

    Key Features:

    • Strong Security Measures:
      • Incorporates tokenization and encryption to safeguard payment data.
    • Reliable Processing:
      • Backed by Visa, offering a trustworthy environment for transactions.
    • Customizable Pricing:
      • Offers competitive pricing plans which can be tailored to fit specific business needs through merchant accounts.

    Pros:

    • Trusted Platform:
      • Benefit from the backing of a major financial entity to enhance credibility.
    • Extensive Security:
      • Ensures data integrity and privacy through advanced security protocols.

    Cons:

    • Requires a Merchant Account:
      • Businesses must set up a merchant account, which may involve additional steps and considerations.
    • Setup Complexity:
      • Initial configuration and setup can be intricate, potentially requiring technical assistance.

    Best Use Cases:

    1. E-commerce Businesses:
      • Ideal for online retailers who prioritize customer data security and require a reliable transaction platform.
    2. Subscription Services:
      • Suitable for businesses offering recurring billing, providing secure and seamless payment processing.
    3. High-Volume Merchants:
      • Best suited for businesses handling large volumes of transactions needing stable and trusted processing capabilities.

    By choosing Authorize.Net, businesses align themselves with a proven and secure payment processing solution that's recognized industry-wide for its robust protection against fraud and data breaches.

  • Adyen offers a robust payment processing platform that consolidates various payment methods into a single, streamlined solution. With an average fee structure of approximately 3.95% + $0.12 per transaction, Adyen is positioned as a premium choice for businesses looking for comprehensive payment solutions. Its capabilities extend across a wide array of currencies, making it highly versatile for businesses with international reach.

    Adyen distinguishes itself with its advanced AI-powered risk management features, which are designed to minimize the risk of fraudulent transactions and enhance security at an enterprise level. The AI integrates seamlessly into the payment process, proactively identifying and mitigating risks.

    Key Features

    • Global Currency Support: Adyen's platform supports numerous currencies, making it ideal for businesses operating internationally, allowing them to process payments from customers around the globe.
    • AI-Driven Risk Management: The use of artificial intelligence in risk management ensures more secure transactions by detecting and preventing fraud in real-time.
    • Comprehensive Payment Platform: Offers a unified platform to manage different payment methods, simplifying operations for businesses.

    Pros

    • Integrated Fraud Control: With cutting-edge AI technology, Adyen offers superior fraud detection and prevention mechanisms.
    • High Scalability: Suitable for businesses aiming to scale, Adyen's platform can handle growing transaction volumes efficiently.

    Cons

    • Higher Cost: The premium fee structure might be a concern for small businesses or startups focusing on cost-saving.
    • Steeper Learning Curve: The comprehensive nature of the platform might require a longer adaptation period for new users or businesses transitioning from simpler systems.

    Best Use Cases

    Adyen is particularly suited for large enterprises and mid-sized businesses that handle significant transaction volumes and require a sophisticated, secure payment infrastructure. Its international currency support and advanced fraud prevention make it a preferred choice for e-commerce platforms, global retailers, and marketplaces seeking to enhance their payment processing capabilities while maintaining robust security standards.

When Is the Right Time to Switch Payment Providers?

Do you feel that high fees are eating away your profits? Or perhaps your current provider no longer meets your evolving needs? Such challenges might be the perfect signal that it’s time to switch. As your business scales, cost efficiency and operational fit become critical. Keep an eye on market conditions and changes in economic policies in India—they could be essential indicators for making the move. Isn’t it smart to adopt a forward-thinking approach and secure a better future for your business?

Where to Begin: Choosing the Perfect Solution

Start by identifying what your business truly needs. Are you running an e-commerce site that requires extensive currency support, or are you a freelancer in search of minimal transaction fees? Create a checklist that maps out your key requirements—including transaction volume and growth expectations. Take advantage of trial periods to experience the platform firsthand and ensure it meshes well with your day-to-day operations. Remember the iconic optimism of Bollywood films like '3 Idiots'—sometimes, a little exploration leads to a breakthrough. Wouldn’t you agree that spending time now leads to fewer hassles later?

Conclusion

The numerous Stripe alternatives demonstrate the growing need for tailored payment solutions in our fast-paced digital economy. By carefully evaluating your specific needs, you can choose a gateway that streamlines transactions, reduces costs, and enhances security. Make the informed decision today, and set the stage for your business’s success tomorrow. Isn't it time to take control of your financial future?

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Frequently Asked Questions

International payment gateways charge fees that usually range from 1% to 4% per transaction. It’s important to compare both the fee structure and currency conversion rates when choosing the right gateway.

Currency conversion is crucial for businesses dealing with international clients. It reduces the risk of losses due to exchange rate fluctuations, ensuring transparent and predictable pricing.

Absolutely! Many alternatives offer competitive rates, lower fees, and easier integration processes, making them ideal for small businesses and freelancers alike.

Yes, most platforms mentioned provide customer support specifically tailored to Indian businesses, ensuring you get timely assistance when needed.

Security is a top priority for these platforms. They typically employ industry-standard measures such as PCI-DSS compliance, two-factor authentication, and advanced fraud detection to safeguard your transactions.