As an Indian exporter, navigating the complexities of international transactions and compliance can feel like solving a complex puzzle. Today, we'll explore a crucial piece of that puzzle: FIRC

FIRC full form is Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate. It is a document issued by banks as proof of receiving international payments. Over the years, regulations around FIRC have changed significantly, creating confusion and mystery around this important document. Let's clear the air and decode the what, who, and why of FIRC.

FIRC or Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate serves as a proof of foreign money transfer for exporters in India. Until 2016, <a href="https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/FEMAMASTER/PDFs/1061.PDF">AD (Authorised Dealer) Category I Banks</a> were authorised to issue FIRCs to exporters for receiving payments from foreign sources. This document was essential for exporters to obtain after each cross-border payment. It served not only as proof of payment receipt but also as a crucial document for claiming export-related incentives, such as tax exemptions on foreign currency payments received in India.

As we've covered, the full form of FIRC is Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate and for a long time it served as proof of export income from abroad. However, with changing regulations, the function of FIRC has also changed significantly. Let's take a look:

FIRA is often still referred to by its old name, FIRC. While both documents serve the same purpose, FIRC is technically only issued for returns on&nbsp;Foreign Direct Investment (FDI )or Foreign Institutional Investment (FII). For all other export collections, FIRA/BIRC is what you need.

For clarity, we'll use the term FIRC moving forward, but it refers to FIRA throughout.

Anyone receiving foreign payments needs FIRC.&nbsp; Beyond goods and service exporters engaging in international trade, many individuals and entities may receive international payments without realising it.&nbsp;

Overall, the following typically require a FIRC:

Beyond compliance, here’s why FIRC is crucial for exporters:

FIRCs are issued by AD Category I banks. You can contact your bank to get your FIRC after receiving your foreign payment. <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-get-firc-certificate-online">Alternatively, you can also use platforms like Skydo to get your FIRC instantly after every payment.&nbsp;</a>

Who Needs FIRC and Why It’s Important for Exporters?

FIRC (Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate) is essential for anyone receiving foreign payments, including:

Exporters, in particular, rely on FIRC for two key reasons:

FIRC is issued by Authorized Dealer (AD) Category I banks, and businesses can obtain it directly from their bank. However, it is usually a cumbersome process requiring multiple follow-ups and most banks charge around INR 500 to issue each FIRC.&nbsp;In contrast, platforms like Skydo offer a fast, hassle-free solution, providing an instant FIRC for free after every foreign payment—no manual requests, no extra costs.

This is a sample FIRC document. All crucial remittance details have been masked for security purposes. Now let’s break the content of a FIRC down: 

Receiving your export payment directly through your bank can make obtaining an FIRC a lengthy process. You need to submit a request to the bank, and the bank typically takes 7-15 days to provide the FIRC. You may also need to follow up multiple times, and banks often charge at least INR 400 to issue the FIRC, depending on the institution.

<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-get-firc-certificate-online">Getting a FIRC</a> might sound like a hassle, but with Skydo, it's a breeze. Our fully automated payment system along with built-in partnerships with banks, ensures effortless compliance with RBI guidelines, without needing any manual intervention.

When you receive an export payment through Skydo, we automatically generate the required FIRC for you at no extra cost. Just log into our user-friendly dashboard, and you'll find your FIRC ready to download, complete with all the details you need. 

In conversations around FIRC, there are a few more terms that get frequently mentioned, one of them being eFIRC. So what exactly is <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/efirc-firc-brc-essentials-differences">eFIRC?</a>

What is the difference between eBRC and FIRC?

Generally speaking, e-BRC applies mostly to goods and software exporters (under <a href="https://stpi.in/en/home?no_follow=true/">STPI</a>). If you are one of them, you can use this simple decision tree to understand which documents you will need:

Exporting goods and services is considered Zero-Rated Supply, meaning it is subject to 0% GST. However, to claim a GST refund for the input tax credit, exporters must provide the required documents including FIRC. These documents authenticate that the business is claiming a refund because it exported services and couldn't offset its input tax credit as it would in normal domestic business. Without FIRC, claiming a GST refund may not be possible

As we surge in cross-border transactions, ensuring compliance and safeguarding against illicit activities has become a pressing concern. However, at Skydo, we believe your focus should be on advancing your business, not on grappling with compliance challenges.

With Skydo, enjoy seamless international payments, delivered promptly and without any hidden fees. But that's just the beginning! Every time you receive a cross-border payment, an auto-generated FIRC is readily available for you to download, relieving you of compliance burdens so you can devote your energy to what truly matters: driving your business forward.

FIRC full form is Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate. Learn what FIRC is, its importance for exporters and freelancers, and how to obtain it easily

FIRC: Full form, meaning and RBI guidelines

Dive into the world of FIRC. Explore the full form, importance, and process of obtaining FIRC for your international transactions

Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate (FIRC): Full form, meaning and RBI guidelines

Prashanth

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Prashanth Kumar

You just landed an international client who wants to pay you. They mention a "wire transfer" or a "bank transfer," and you’re left wondering, aren’t those the same thing?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different methods of transferring money. They vary in fees, processing networks, required details, and typical use cases.
In this blog, we’ll break down what wire transfers and bank transfers actually mean, how they differ, and which one is better suited for your international payments.

Imagine sending money through a chain of trusted messengers. That's essentially how a wire transfer works, it's an electronic payment that moves money between bank accounts, usually through the <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/swift-money-transfer-ultimate-guide">SWIFT network</a> or Western Union network. While wire transfer can also be used for domestic transfers, they are largely used for international transactions since bank transfers often come out cheaper and less complicated for local transactions.&nbsp;

Your client will need several pieces of general information to send a wire transfer. They'll need your bank's <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/swift-money-transfer-ultimate-guide">SWIFT code</a> (a unique identifier), your account number, and sometimes your IBAN (if you're in Europe). They might also need to answer security questions or enter a one-time code their bank sends them. Wire transfer is typically suitable for large transactions.&nbsp;

Wire transfers are designed for secure, high-value transactions. Banks treat them with added caution, often requiring extra verification before processing to ensure safety and compliance.

A bank transfer is the everyday way people move money locally. Think about how you might pay your phone bill or send money to a friend, that's typically a bank transfer.

These payments use local networks in each country. In the United States, it's <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/everything-about-ach-payments">ACH</a>. Europe uses <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/what-are-sepa-transfers">SEPA</a>. The UK has Faster Payments. India has NEFT and RTGS. Each system is designed to move money quickly and cheaply within that region.

The beauty of bank transfers is their simplicity. Your client logs into their online banking, enters your account details, and clicks send. There are no SWIFT codes or lengthy verification processes. The money moves directly from their bank to the recipient bank without bouncing through intermediary banks.

Bank money transfers are used for regular business payments like payroll, invoice settlements, and subscription fees. They're the workhorse of day-to-day financial transactions because they're reliable, cheap, and easy to set up.

Wire Transfer vs Bank Transfer: Key Differences

Here’s a quick peek into wire transfer vs bank transfer:

The network difference matters more than you think

Wire transfers route through SWIFT, a global messaging system that connects financial institutions worldwide. When your European client sends money via SWIFT, the payment might travel through three different banks before reaching you. Each bank can charge a fee.

Bank transfers use local networks designed for that specific country or region. SEPA connects European banks directly. ACH does the same for US banks. This direct connection means faster processing and lower costs.

Wire transfer fees hit from multiple angles. Your client's bank charges $30-80 to send. Each intermediary bank takes $10-25. Banks often add a markup to the exchange rate, costing another 2-4%. On a $5,000 payment, you could lose $200-400 to fees and poor exchange rates.

Bank transfers within local networks typically cost nothing to receive. Even when sending fees apply, they're usually under $5. The catch? True bank transfers only work within the same country or currency zone.

Wire transfers often have variable delivery times based on routing. A payment from Japan to Brazil might take five days if it travels through correspondent banks in New York and London. Weekend and holiday delays add more time.

Local bank transfers often beat wire transfers for speed. UK Faster Payments clear in seconds. European SEPA transfers take one business day maximum. US ACH transfers typically clear overnight from the clearing house.

Wire transfers require more paperwork&nbsp;

While discussing bank transfer vs wire transfer, know that wire transfers need extensive details because they cross borders. Your client needs your bank's SWIFT code, full name and address, account number, and sometimes an IBAN. They might also need to provide a payment purpose code for compliance.

Transfer of funds through banks is usually simple. Within the US, you just need a routing number and account number. In Europe, an <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/iban-number-meaning-full-form">IBAN c</a>overs everything. No lengthy forms or compliance paperwork required.

Wire Transfer vs Bank Transfer: How Skydo Brings the Best of Both Worlds

For many businesses in India, receiving international payments has traditionally meant relying on wire transfers via the SWIFT network—a process that’s often slow, expensive, and cumbersome. On the other hand, local bank transfers (like ACH in the US or SEPA in Europe) are faster and cheaper, but not typically available for cross-border payments.

Skydo offers you <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/virtual-account-numbers">virtual bank accounts</a> in key geographies like the US, Europe, Canada and more. With Skydo’s virtual international accounts, your clients abroad can pay you using local transfer methods, like ACH if they’re in the US, or SEPA if they’re in the EU. This means they don’t have to initiate a formal wire transfer, fill out complex forms, or pay hefty SWIFT fees. For them, it’s just a regular domestic transfer.

Once the payment hits your virtual account, Skydo handles the rest. The funds are consolidated, transferred to India, and settled into your Indian bank account, all at the live mid-market exchange rate, with no hidden forex markup. Unlike traditional banks that shave off 2–4% through unfavourable exchange rates, Skydo gives you full transparency on how much you’ll receive.

So in essence, you get the speed, cost savings, and simplicity of a local bank transfer, paired with the global reach and compliance of a wire transfer, without the usual friction on either side.

It’s the best of both worlds: easy for your clients, and better value for you.

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As an Indian importer or international trader, you may have occasionally spotted the mysterious purpose code "1501" on your bank statement. Purpose code 1501 primarily deals with refunds and rebates associated with imports. In this blog post, we will discuss this purpose of code, explain its importance and look at a few common scenarios where code P1501 is used.

Before we dive into the details of purpose code 1501, here's a brief snapshot of Purpose Code 1501:

With the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) releasing its <a href="https://kpmg.com/us/en/taxnewsflash/news/2025/04/india-revised-draft-export-import-regulations.html">revised draft </a>of the 'Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2025' on April 4, it’s crucial for businesses to stay informed about these changes to ensure ongoing compliance and avoid surprises down the line."

Purpose Code 1501 in India specifically denotes transactions related to refunds or rebates received on account of imports. This code signifies that you've received money back from foreign entities associated with goods or services previously imported into India.&nbsp;For example, imagine you run a business in India that imports electronic components from China, assembles them locally, and sells the final product. If one of the components you imported turns out to be faulty and you file a complaint, the supplier may issue a refund for the defective part. This refund would need to be categorized under Purpose Code P1501.

Why is Understanding Purpose Code 1501 Important?

Note that the purpose code 1501 is used specifically for inward remittances (receiving refunds) related to imports. For outward remittance, i.e for sending refund abroad, purpose code S1501 is used.

Claiming Import Duty Refund Using Purpose Code 1501

Imagine you're an importer in India and you've just received a shipment of goods from overseas. Let's say you paid some import duty on these items. Now, for some reason, maybe a few items were damaged, or you were overcharged, you're due a refund on that duty. Here's a simplified look at how that refund might come back to you and where Purpose Code P1501 plays a role:

So, in simple terms, if you get an import duty refund that comes from a company or entity outside of India, your bank will use Purpose Code P1501 to categorize this money coming into your account. It's like a special tag that helps everyone understand the reason for the transaction.

How to Select the Right Purpose Code for Your Transaction?

Choosing the correct purpose code is crucial to ensure smooth and compliant transactions, especially when dealing with international payments. If you're receiving funds from abroad related to imports, such as refunds, rebates, or adjustments, Purpose Code 1501 should be used.

Before finalizing any transaction, carefully review the nature of the payment to confirm it accurately reflects the purpose of the funds. For instance, if the payment is not related to an import-related refund or rebate (e.g., a personal remittance from abroad), a different purpose code would be applicable.

To avoid discrepancies or delays, ensure you have all the necessary documentation to support the use of Purpose Code 1501. This may include:

If you're uncertain about the appropriate purpose code for your transaction, consult your bank or a financial expert. Using the wrong code can lead to delays in processing, scrutiny from regulatory authorities, and even potential penalties.

By carefully selecting the correct purpose code, you can ensure smooth and compliant transactions while maintaining accurate financial records.

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Most new exporters find the trade paperwork overwhelming. First, the volume and second, the lack of experience, lead them into a spiral of confusion.

If you're experiencing a similar situation, we might have the right blog to start cutting through this confusion. Among the various documents, the proforma invoice is one of the most frequently used by exporters worldwide. Is it the same as a formal invoice? Not really. It plays a different role.&nbsp;

We suggest reading this comprehensive guide to find out everything about proforma invoices. It breaks down all the details, from their basic definition and purpose to practical formats and examples. 

A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill of sale that provides a detailed estimate of costs before the sale is confirmed. It defines the key transaction details upfront so that the buyer and seller understand the proposed terms before the transaction is initiated. This helps to streamline the sales process and avoid going back and forth.

A proforma invoice typically includes detailed information like item descriptions, prices, shipping weights, and transport charges. It’s important to remember that it is only a provisional document and must be followed up with a commercial invoice to request payment from the buyer.&nbsp;

Here’s a scenario to help you understand the practical application of a proforma invoice. Imagine a textile exporter in India receiving a bulk order of 1,000 meters of silk fabric. The exporter is new and eager to close the deal but is unsure about the exact shipping cost and&nbsp;customs duties. So, they share a proforma invoice that includes the fabric cost, estimated shipping to the U.S., potential customs duties, and other handling fees.

By providing this, the exporter gives the buyer a clear picture of the total cost. The buyer can use this information to negotiate with the exporter and make a more informed decision. They can also use it to arrange import permits or financing.

Here are the most common reasons why exporters choose to use a proforma invoice in international trade:

Negotiation and Transparency: It provides a clear preview of the proposed international transaction and invites open discussion about prices, terms, and conditions

Professional Commitment: The invoice shows the seller's willingness to provide goods at the agreed price and duration, which establishes trust with potential customers

Buyer Acknowledgement: It formally recognizes the buyer's intent to purchase and outlines the mutual understanding of the transaction

Streamlined Process: By defining transaction details upfront, proforma invoices reduce back-and-forth communications, saving time for both parties.

Internal Approvals: Buyers use proforma invoices to get internal purchase approval and help their finance and procurement teams understand the transaction details.

Cost Efficiency: Proforma invoices help businesses reduce administrative overhead by simplifying the quote-to-cash process - the entire cycle from the buyer showing interest to receiving the payment.

Here are two sample proforma invoices to give you an idea about the presentation of the above details:

You must have observed the following details present in both the images, which resonates with what we covered in the previous section:What we covered in the previous section:

You might have also observed that while both the proforma invoice templates are acceptable, they differ in design. The first is more modern and has a spacious layout. It also covers only the basic shipping information, like the port of loading and discharge. The second is more compact in design and looks more traditional, but it covers detailed shipping information, including the number of packages, weight, and carrier name.

Is Proforma Invoice Required For Indian Exporters?

A proforma invoice is not legally compulsory for Indian exporters, but it has become an essential document in the export sales process. For you as an exporter, a proforma invoice acts as a preliminary document that confirms the importer's order and provides a detailed breakdown of shipment costs. It also becomes a foundational document that you can use to prepare the final commercial invoice.

From an importer's point of view, the proforma invoice gives them detailed information on the goods they will receive. It specifies the item quantity, price, and other relevant transaction information. This ensures transparency and mutual understanding between you and the importer before any goods are shipped.

The other significant advantage of a proforma invoice is its ability to establish payment arrangements. You can use it to set up letters of credit or to secure trade financing.

In summary, while the law does not mandate a proforma invoice, it is a good practice to follow. It provides a detailed, preliminary account&nbsp;of the transaction, builds trust and transparency with the buyer, and reduces financial risks.

Receive Seamless Export Payments With Skydo

A proforma invoice is not a legal document that can be used to request payment from buyers, but it is still a strategic tool for an exporter. It builds trust and irons out misunderstandings, helping to push the deal to the next stage. But as you move towards finalizing the deal with the buyer, you need a trusted invoicing and payment platform.

This is where Skydo comes in. It is a comprehensive solution for Indian exporters like you to manage invoices and multi-currency payments in one place. Let's talk about Skydo's invoicing capabilities first.

But Skydo's real strength lies in collecting payments from your buyers. You might have heard from fellow exporters losing money to high transaction fees and forex markups during international transfers. Skydo takes a much cost-effective approach to ensure you get the maximum value.

Skydo works with you like a strategic partner to take your business global. Sign up now and revolutionize your international payment process

Proforma Invoice: Meaning, Format And Template

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When you export from India, regardless of the product or service, the invoice you send matters, not just for your client but also for GST compliance, customs documentation, and foreign exchange tracking.&nbsp;

One field that often confuses many new exporters and freelancers is the HSN code (also known as Harmonised System of Nomenclature). You may wonder:&nbsp;

Will it impact my GST (Goods and Services Tax) refund?

This blog clearly breaks down the concept of HSN code, the importance of HSN, and provides action steps to help you prepare your export invoices correctly and avoid delays.

What Is the Full Form of HSN? (And Why It Exists)

HSN full form is Harmonised System of Nomenclature. It's a globally accepted uniform classification system that identifies and categorises goods for customs and GST. It helps freelancers and exporters receive payments from abroad without unnecessary delays.

HSN came into effect in 1988, developed by the <a href="https://www.wcoomd.org/">World Customs Organization (WCO)</a>, and is now used by over 200 countries, including India.&nbsp;

If you are not familiar with the term HSN and its meaning, let us break it down for you:&nbsp;&nbsp;

For Indian freelancers and exporters, HSN codes are used in GST filings, export invoices, and most importantly, the documentation your client's bank needs to process your payment.&nbsp;

How to Read an HSN Code: Meaning of All 4, 6, and 8 Digits

In India, you need to use 8-digit HSN codes, where the first two digits represent the relevant HSN chapter, the next two are the heading, the following two are the subheading, and the last two digits are the customs tariffs.

Let us break down the digits of the HSN code 22021010&nbsp; for you:&nbsp;

The best part is that the HSN number speaks the same language everywhere, whether you're sending website designs to a startup in Berlin or software code to a company in New York. 

Your invoice looks professional, your payment gets processed without question in a systematic manner, and you avoid those dreaded "clarification needed" emails that delay your money.

HSN vs SAC Code – Which One Applies to You?

This is a common confusion, especially among freelancers and SaaS companies. Here's the simple breakdown of HSN code list:

But you'll use HSN codes instead if you're shipping physical products - handmade jewellery, organic spices, or textile products.

💡Quick tip: All SAC (Service Accounting Code) codes start with "99"; that's your first clue you're dealing with services. The eight digits of the correct HSN code are mandatory for exports and imports, while SAC codes are 6 digits and mandatory for service providers with a turnover above ₹5 crore.&nbsp;

When Are You Required to Use HSN or SAC in Export Invoices?

You must mention the HSN or SAC code in your export invoice if:

The GST portal doesn't auto-fill this stuff for you, and missing it means your refund application sits in "pending clarification" limbo.

<a href="https://www.gstn.org.in/assets/mainDashboard/Pdf/GST%20e-invoice%20System%20-%20FAQs.pdf">For smaller freelancers</a> (under ₹1.5 Cr turnover): Small taxpayers with an annual turnover below Rs. 1.5 crore are exempt from mentioning the HSN code in their invoices and returns by the tax authorities. But if you're exporting services and want GST refunds, you'll likely need these codes anyway for zero-rated supply claims.

<a href="https://eztax.in/gst/gst-rate-hsn-sac-finder">The penalty reality</a>: A penalty of Rs 50000 (Rs 25000 under CGST and Rs 25000 under SGST) would be levied for not mentioning HSN/SAC or wrongly mentioning it in GST Returns and Invoices used for taxation purposes.

Missing or using an incorrect HSN/SAC code can cause rejections at customs, hold up your client's payment processing, and trigger those dreaded "document discrepancy" emails from banks.

How to Find the Right HSN or SAC Code for Your Business

Start by typing a simple description of what you're selling. The revamped Search HSN tool algorithm is based on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning linked with the e-invoice declaration database, so it learns from other taxpayers' use.

Here are some commonly used codes for Indian exporters that play a crucial role in your tax invoicing process:

Most freelancers fall under 998313 (IT consulting) or 998314 (software development). If you're doing social media management, SEO, or digital marketing campaigns, 998365 is your go-to for advertising services.

💡Pro tip: If you're doing mixed work - like building a website AND doing digital marketing for the same client - use 998314 for the development part and 998365 for the marketing part.&nbsp;

Don't try to fit everything under one SAC code; that's how you'll end up with GST notices asking for "clarification."

The GST portal's search is quite intelligent now. Type "web design" and it'll suggest 998314. Type "social media marketing" and you'll get 998365.&nbsp;

Where to Put the HSN/SAC Code in Your Invoice (Export-Focused)

Here's the practical placement guide that matters for getting your payments processed:

Mention it next to each line item in the invoice&nbsp; You can add an HSN/SAC code for each line item by clicking on the Plus sign at the line level.

Include it in shipping bills and customs declarations&nbsp; All eight digits of the HSN code are mandatory in case of export and imports under the GST.

A mismatch can result in refund hold-ups or compliance notices.

Real-world example: Suppose you're billing a client for website development. In your export invoice, you'll show:

Line 1: Website Development Services - SAC 998314 - ₹1,00,000

This same SAC code (998314) must appear in:

Taxpayers will see alert messages if there is a mismatch between the values reported in Table 12 and other tables of GSTR-1.&nbsp;

Beginning January 2025, the third phase of HSN validation will become effective, further emphasising precise HSN code reporting for businesses. The system now auto-validates everything, so those minor inconsistencies that used to slip through? Not anymore.

💡Pro tip: Set up your invoicing software to auto-populate the same HSN/SAC code across all documents. Most accounting software, like Zoho Books or ClearTax, allows you to auto-populate HSN/SAC codes when you create transactions. It's worth the setup time to avoid compliance headaches later.

Use the same code everywhere, every time. Your future self (and your CA) will thank you when refund season comes around.

Here are the mistakes that'll cost you time, money, and sleep:

Leaving the HSN/SAC field blank, especially in zero-rated export invoices&nbsp;

No, a GST bill will not be valid without an HSN code for the tax administration. This is non-negotiable for exports. Freelancers can lose weeks chasing down stuck payments because they left this field empty.

Using incorrect codes based on guesswork or copying other businesses&nbsp;

Just because your friend uses SAC 998313 for "web development" doesn't mean it's right for your mobile app development work (which should be 998314). The GST rates portal now auto-validates everything, so guesswork gets caught instantly.

Using HSN when you're exporting services (should use SAC)&nbsp;

HSN codes are used to classify goods, whereas SAC codes are used to classify services. Using SAC codes to export IT services, digital marketing, or any other service. HSN is only for physical goods.

Not updating codes when your product/service offering changes&nbsp;

I started as a freelance writer (SAC 998319 - other professional services) but am now developing websites. Update to SAC 998314. The system tracks everything, and inconsistencies trigger compliance notices.

Simplify Export Payments with Skydo&nbsp;

Getting paid for your exports shouldn't cost you thousands in bank fees and poor exchange rates. Banks charge 1.2% hidden FX margins, PayPal takes 8.7%, and getting FIRA certificates is a nightmare.

This is where you need a platform like Skydo.&nbsp;

On a $7,000 payment, you'll receive ₹5,96,680 vs ₹5,89,269 from banks. That's ₹7,400+ more in your pocket.

Whether you're freelancing, running an agency, or selling on Amazon Global, keep more of what you earn.

<a href="https://www.skydo.com/">Get started with Skydo</a>!

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Imagine you’re an international buyer,&nbsp; say, a U.S. company, and your Indian supplier has sent an invoice asking you to pay into a “Skydo Virtual Account” instead of a traditional Indian bank. It’s natural to wonder: Is this safe and legal? The short answer is yes. 

In fact, you’d be in good company: Amazon, Stanford University, Microsoft, and many others already use Skydo’s <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/virtual-account-numbers">virtual accounts</a> to pay their Indian vendors. Skydo’s virtual accounts are simply local bank accounts set up for each currency (USD, EUR, CAD, SGD, etc.) and are backed by real regulated banks. Paying into a Skydo account means you’re actually sending money to a major bank (in the U.S., Europe, Singapore, etc.), not into some anonymous wallet.

In practice, you wire dollars to a Community Federal Savings Bank (New York) account or send euros to a Barclays<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/iban-number-meaning-full-form">/IBAN account,</a> and Skydo’s system credits the Indian exporter and provides them with the required digital paperwork (<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-firc-a-complete-guide">the FIRA</a>) for RBI&nbsp; (India’s central bank, regulating the financial system) compliance. This process is faster, cheaper and more transparent than a traditional <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/swift-money-transfer-ultimate-guide">wire/swift transfer</a>,&nbsp; and it comes with industry-grade security.

How Virtual Accounts Work – Faster, Cheaper, Transparent

A “virtual account” in Skydo’s terms works like this: when your vendor signs up with Skydo, they instantly get bank accounts in 10+ countries (USD, EUR, CAD, GBP, AUD, SGD, etc.). From the payer’s perspective, you just wire money to a normal-looking bank account in your country or region.&nbsp;

Behind the scenes, Skydo’s platform collects that money, converts it at real-time mid-market rates with a minimal fee, and remits INR to the exporter’s Indian account. This avoids the usual multi-bank wire chain and opaque fees of traditional FX. For example, Skydo charges a flat USD $19 for payments up to $2,000, or $29 up to $10,000, with zero hidden markups.&nbsp; The exporter covers the fee, so you can pay the full invoice amount without worrying about extra charges or deductions.

Unlike international wire transfers to Indian bank accounts, payments to a Skydo virtual account are treated as local transfers. That means you skip SWIFT fees, avoid lengthy settlement timelines, and don’t have to deal with repeated follow-ups from your supplier. Funds typically clear within 24–48 hours.

One reviewer of Skydo noted that using it was “an amazing experience … completely hassle free” for international invoicing In short, paying to a Skydo virtual account means your money moves as if it were a local transfer (often clearing in 24 hours) while the exporter still gets the correct tax-compliant confirmation (FIRA) on their end.

Skydo runs on global financial rails, partnering with banks you already know and trust.

For example, <a href="https://www.bankingcircle.com/banking-circle-partners-with-skydo-to-accelerate-cross-border-collections-for-indian-businesses/">Banking Circle (a fully licensed next-generation bank with central bank access in Europe) has entered a strategic partnership with Skydo</a> to expand payment options for UK/EU and&nbsp; Australian clients.&nbsp;

In Asia, Skydo uses accounts at DBS Bank (Singapore). For USD payments, Skydo issues accounts via Community Federal Savings Bank (a New York bank). For Canada, it uses Digital Commerce Bank (a regulated Canadian bank), and for Europe/UK, it taps banks like Barclays and other IBAN providers.&nbsp;

In India, Skydo partners with HDFC Bank (one of India’s largest private banks) to reconcile the rupees on the exporter’s side. It even leverages Currencycloud (a Visa company) for multi-currency accounts.&nbsp; In short, every virtual account is held at a major bank – you’re not sending money into thin air, but into real bank rails.

“We’re constantly in search of global rails that make payments faster, cheaper and more compliant,” says Skydo’s CEO Srivatsan Sridhar, about their Banking Circle tie-up.&nbsp; By “rails”, he means real bank accounts and networks. Thanks to these partnerships, US and European buyers pay in dollars or euros as normal. Skydo’s system handles the rest, offering local payment details for multiple currencies in just a few minutes

Beyond the banks, Skydo invests heavily in security and compliance. The platform is ISO 27001 certified and AICPA SOC 2 compliant, meaning it meets top industry standards for data protection and system reliability. All payment data is encrypted in transit and at rest, with strict access controls. Skydo also requires two-factor authentication on logins and continuously monitors for any suspicious activity.

Skydo’s team (with AI-powered tools) actively flags anomalies in real time: every transaction is screened against AML/KYC rules, and any unusual pattern is immediately investigated. As Skydo notes, “if anything seems amiss, we immediately investigate to ensure your data’s integrity and our platform’s security” Put simply, paying via Skydo is as safe as any major bank transfer – probably safer, since their systems are built for secure global flows.

Skydo is also fully approved by regulators. It recently received in-principle authorisation from India’s Reserve Bank (RBI) to operate as a Payment Aggregator – Cross Border (PA-CB) entity. This is the same RBI framework that governs other licensed fintechs such as<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/paypal-in-india-charges-review-alternatives"> PayPal</a>, <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/transferwise-india-features-benefits-pros-cons">Transferwise</a> etc. to process cross-border flows in India; it means Skydo must follow strict rules on transaction security, compliance and audit. In short, RBI has vetted Skydo’s model. By now, Skydo serves over 20,000 Indian exporters and processes hundreds of millions of dollars annually, so your payments become part of a well-established system, not a back-alley workaround.

Key reasons to trust Skydo’s virtual accounts:

In short, paying into a Skydo virtual account is simply a modern, regulated way to move money internationally. It offers the same level of security as wiring to a major global bank, while being far more convenient for both you and the exporter. By using trusted global banks and following global compliance, Skydo makes cross-border invoicing as seamless as domestic payments. The next time an Indian partner asks you to pay via Skydo’s virtual account, you can be confident it’s secure, compliant, and in fact better than the old wire-transfer route.