• Building a Remote Workforce Strategy Amid U.S. Visa Policy Changes

    When U.S. policy shifts, global business feels the impact. The latest example: the proposed $100,000 tariff on H-1B visas. For companies dependent on importing talent, this creates massive uncertainty. For those already investing in remote work, it looks more like an opportunity.

    The question isn’t whether remote workflows will expand — it’s how quickly.

    The risks of relying on visas

    Companies that depend on bringing foreign workers into the U.S. face three risks:

    1. Cost inflation — tariffs and relocation costs skyrocket.
    2. Delays and bottlenecks — immigration processes stretch from months to years.
    3. Retention issues — talent forced to uproot their lives may leave sooner.

    By contrast, hiring in LATAM through remote contracts avoids all three.

    Elements of a smart remote strategy

    If U.S. companies want to future-proof their workforce, they need more than ad hoc freelancing. They need a system.

    Here are the building blocks:

    • Localized contracts — agreements tailored to the contractor’s country, ensuring legal clarity for both sides.
    • USD payouts without friction — paying in local currency undermines retention. Workers want to earn in dollars, and employers need a reliable way to deliver.
    • Integrated culture — treating LATAM talent as part of the global team, not a “nearshore add-on.”
    • Operational simplicity — payroll teams should send one transfer, not manage dozens of wires across borders.

    How MiDi enables the shift

    MiDi was designed to help U.S. companies transition smoothly into remote-first hiring in Latin America. With MiDi, you can:

    • Send one monthly transfer to fund all payouts.
    • Give each contractor a U.S. account and Visa card.

    This isn’t just about speed. It’s about positioning your company as a serious employer in a market where the best talent is increasingly selective.

    Practical steps to take today

    1. Audit your current workforce — how much depends on visas?
    2. Identify key roles that can be shifted to remote LATAM talent.
    3. Implement a payment solution like MiDi to reduce friction from day one.
    4. Communicate clearly — remote workers should feel like full members of the team, not contractors in limbo.

    Conclusion: A new playbook for global hiring

    The era of flying talent across borders is giving way to an era of building borderless teams. Visa restrictions may accelerate the trend, but the underlying logic is already here: hire where the talent is, pay them fairly, and integrate them globally.

    Companies that act now will not only save on costs but also unlock the best of what LATAM has to offer.

    MiDi is here to make that shift faster, simpler, and frictionless.

    👉 Book a discovery call with MiDi

  • How U.S. H-1B Visa Barriers Accelerate Remote Work in LATAM

    The U.S. has long relied on the H-1B visa program to bring in highly skilled foreign workers, especially in technology and engineering. But the recent proposal to impose a $100,000 tariff on 100,000 visas marks a dramatic shift. The message is clear: relocating talent to the U.S. is about to get much harder — and much more expensive.

    For U.S. companies, this policy shift forces a critical question: is the old model of bringing talent into the country sustainable, or is it time to embrace remote-first hiring in Latin America?

    Why relocation no longer makes sense

    Relocating workers has always been costly. Beyond the visa process, companies pay for relocation packages, housing stipends, and months of adjustment before a new hire is fully productive. A six-figure visa tariff only amplifies those costs, turning relocation into a luxury few firms can afford.

    At the same time, LATAM has matured as a remote talent hub. With fast internet, growing startup ecosystems, and millions of professionals trained in global standards, U.S. companies don’t need to import talent — they can tap into it directly.

    The rise of remote LATAM teams

    The “New American Dream” no longer requires moving north. Developers in Medellín, designers in Buenos Aires, and analysts in Mexico City can build global careers while staying close to family and culture.

    For U.S. employers, this model solves two challenges at once:

    • Access to talent without immigration hurdles.
    • Cost efficiency without sacrificing quality.

    But remote work isn’t just about Slack and Zoom. The real bottleneck is payroll.

    The infrastructure problem: payments

    Traditional cross-border payments are slow, expensive, and opaque. Contractors often wait weeks for wires to clear, losing up to 5% in hidden spreads. That’s not just frustrating — it erodes trust and retention.

    This is where purpose-built infrastructure matters. With MiDi, U.S. companies can:

    • Fund a single monthly transfer to cover all contractors.
    • Provide each worker with a U.S. account and Visa card.
    • Ensure payouts land in real USD within 30 minutes to 4 hours.

    The result? Contractors feel like part of the global team, not second-class employees waiting on delayed transfers.

    From “Plan B” to the new default

    The proposed H-1B tariff may look like a political move, but its ripple effects are global. By making immigration harder, it accelerates the adoption of remote hiring across LATAM.

    For companies, this isn’t about reacting to policy — it’s about staying competitive. The firms that adapt first, building reliable remote workflows in Latin America, will secure the best talent before everyone else follows.

    Remote isn’t Plan B anymore. It’s the new default. And MiDi was built to make it seamless.

    👉 Explore how MiDi supports U.S. companies hiring in LATAM

  • How Lupa Hire Is Redefining the Future of Remote Talent in LATAM

    What happens when a frustrating hiring process turns into a company that transforms how talent is sourced across Latin America? That’s the story behind Lupa Hire, founded by Joseph W.—a former product leader turned ecosystem builder.

    In this second episode of The Remote Advantage, we talk about Lupa’s origin, the persistent gaps in traditional recruiting models, and why Joseph believes Latin America is positioned to become the world’s top hub for remote talent.

    From pain point to purpose: how Lupa got started

    Unlike many startup stories, Lupa didn’t begin with a grand idea or pitch deck. It started with a need.

    Joseph was working at WPPY (a $6B tech unicorn born in Colombia) where hiring talent across multiple LATAM countries became a daily challenge. The speed was slow, the quality inconsistent, and nobody could help him navigate the complexity of hiring across nine countries with different laws, cultures, and time zones.

    So he took over the process, applied product thinking, and got results—quickly. What started as a hands-on experiment turned into referrals, and those referrals turned into a full-time business.

    Beyond placements: redefining what recruiting means

    Most companies see staffing as a transactional service. Lupa takes a different approach—acting more like a strategic partner than a headhunter.

    Here’s what makes Lupa different:

    • They consult before recruiting. Every client gets help defining the actual problem before hiring.
    • They care about match quality, not just placements.
    • They guide US companies through onboarding Latin American talent, helping them adjust to cultural nuances.
    • They’re selective about who they work with. If a company doesn’t offer good conditions, they walk away.

    That hands-on, consultative approach has resulted in a 60–70% success rate in placements, well above the industry average.

    Hiring is hard. Paying is harder.

    As Joseph puts it: “The one thing you don’t want to mess up as a business owner is payroll. People work for money.”

    And when it comes to paying contractors in LATAM, many companies hesitate because of the complexity. Taxes, contracts, delivery delays, FX costs—it’s a minefield. But it doesn’t have to be.

    That’s where platforms like MiDi come in. With MiDi, companies can pay all their contractors in USD with a single monthly payment, and the platform handles distribution to each country—typically within 30 minutes to 4 hours. Contractors get a US account and Visa card, and companies get a single dashboard to track everything.

    Want to learn more? Here’s a full comparison of the best payroll outsourcing companies for LATAM.

    LATAM remote talent is just getting started

    Joseph believes we’re still early in LATAM’s remote work boom.

    In the next 5 to 10 years, he sees:

    • More professionals learning English and tech skills to access global jobs.
    • LATAM becoming a hub for senior roles, not just low-cost labor.
    • A growing awareness that remote jobs don’t require relocation to the US anymore.

    This shift is already underway—and those who adapt early will benefit the most.

    Building an ecosystem, not just filling roles

    What does it mean to build a remote work ecosystem?

    For Joseph, it’s about relationships. Supporting other founders. Mentoring talent. Offering more than just jobs or contracts—it’s about access, belief, and opportunities that ripple outward.

    It’s also about normalizing success in communities across Latin America. When someone sees their friend working for a global company from their hometown, it creates a snowball effect of possibility.

    The importance of solving payroll at scale

    Hiring talent is one thing. Paying them well, in USD, consistently and without friction—that’s the challenge.

    Platforms like MiDi aren’t just payment tools; they’re infrastructure for the future of work in LATAM. By giving contractors access to US accounts and Visa cards, they remove a key friction point that has long discouraged companies from scaling remote teams in the region.

    As Joseph says: “It shouldn’t be scary to be hired as a contractor. With the right setup, both sides benefit. The company pays less, and the contractor earns more.”

    Want to expand your remote team in LATAM?

    If you’re hiring remote talent in Latin America and want to simplify how you pay contractors in USD, let’s talk.

    At MiDi, we help US companies onboard and pay LATAM teams with:

    • A single USD payment each month
    • Fast payouts (30 minutes to 4 hours)
    • US accounts and Visa cards for each contractor
    • No friction, no hidden FX markups, no drama

    👉 Book your discovery call now

    *MiDi Technologies LLC (“MiDi”) is a financial technology company.  MiDi is not a bank, does not take deposits.  Banking services available through the MiDi mobile application are currently provided by Banco San Juan International, Inc. (“BSJI”), a Puerto Rican bank that is an affiliate of MiDi.  In the future, banking services on the MiDi mobile application may be provided by other unaffiliated banks.

  • Paying Remote Talent in LATAM Shouldn’t Be This Hard

    Welcome to The Remote Advantage

    For decades, the “American Dream” meant leaving everything behind to start a new life in the United States. But what if that dream has changed?

    In the first episode of The Remote Advantage, we dive into a powerful shift that’s transforming lives across Latin America: remote work is making it possible to build global careers without crossing borders. More people than ever are choosing to stay rooted in their culture and communities — while earning in USD from companies based in the U.S.

    But while remote work has become easier, paying remote talent in LATAM is still stuck in the past: delays, high fees, compliance headaches, and outdated infrastructure. This is exactly what MiDi set out to solve.

    The New American Dream: Living in LATAM, Getting Paid in USD

    In this episode, Roberto speaks with Marcelino Viosa, the visionary behind MiDi, a platform designed to help U.S. companies pay their LATAM teams in USD — quickly, transparently, and without friction.

    Together, they explore why the idea of the American dream has evolved. Today’s dream is about freedom — the freedom to choose where to live, how to work, and how to access your money.

    “Most of the population still doesn’t have access to safe banking infrastructure,” Marcelino explains. “We’re building the missing piece — so millions of people in LATAM can participate in the global economy.”

    Why Paying Remote Talent in LATAM Is Still So Broken

    Despite massive progress in hiring, paying contractors in Latin America is still a major operational burden for many companies. As Marcelino puts it, “You didn’t sign up to be a currency broker. You just want your people paid — on time, in full, and without drama.”

    Here are some of the most common pain points:

    • Manual spreadsheets and one-by-one transfers
    • Unpredictable FX rates and hidden bank fees
    • Long delays — sometimes 3 to 5 days
    • Compliance friction with banks asking for contracts and justifications
    • No clear ownership of the entire payout process

    Most legacy solutions weren’t built for distributed teams or the rise of remote-first companies hiring across borders.

    Why MiDi Works Differently

    MiDi was built specifically to fix these issues. Instead of managing dozens of payments every month, U.S. companies using MiDi just send one USD payment — and MiDi handles the rest.

    For your business:

    • One monthly USD payment — all contractors paid across LATAM
    • No hidden FX fees or conversion surprises
    • Real-time dashboards, Slack/email alerts
    • Instant ERP exports and audit-ready reporting

    For your team:

    • USD accounts and visibility from day one
    • Visa cards (physical and virtual) to spend anywhere
    • Fast payouts (30 minutes to 4 hours)
    • Peace of mind and financial control

    And yes — all of this is possible without needing to open a local entity in LATAM.

    Why LATAM Became the Hub for Remote Talent

    The world used to look toward India and Southeast Asia for offshore talent. Now, Latin America is booming — and there are clear reasons why:

    • Shared time zones with the U.S.
    • Highly educated, bilingual talent
    • Lower cost of living and higher retention
    • Increasing digital infrastructure across the region

    As Marcelino notes, “There’s real quality of life in Latin America. People can work remotely and still live near family, in a culture they love — without giving up on a global career.”

    Cross-Border Payroll Without the Headaches

    Traditional cross-border payments aren’t just slow — they’re not built for scale. Banks charge per transfer, treat every contractor like a vendor, and escalate compliance red flags.

    MiDi fixes this by working with Banco San Juan Internacional, giving users full access to banking infrastructure — while MiDi manages the last-mile distribution and user experience.

    That means:

    • Companies get consolidated control over all LATAM payouts
    • Contractors receive their USD fast, with no extra steps
    • Everyone works with financial infrastructure that’s transparent and reliable

    What’s Coming Next for Remote Teams in LATAM?

    In the next 5 to 10 years, the remote workforce in LATAM is only going to grow. Infrastructure, financial access, and hiring platforms are improving fast — but the missing link remains: a better way to get paid.

    MiDi isn’t just about solving payroll. It’s about unlocking:

    • Access to international investment tools
    • Global insurance options
    • Borderless accounts with full control
    • And eventually, a new financial identity for the remote generation

    Ready to Fix Payments for Your LATAM Team?

    If you’re hiring freelancers, engineers, or remote collaborators in Colombia, Mexico, Argentina or anywhere in Latin America — and you’re tired of dealing with late wires, high fees, and operational chaos — MiDi is your answer.

    Book a discovery call now to see how MiDi can transform your payroll operations.

    👉 Schedule your call

  • Fast Payouts to LATAM Contractors: An Essential Guide

    In today’s remote-first world, one thing can still slow down even the fastest-growing teams: cross-border payments.

    For companies hiring in Latin America, the question isn’t just how to hire top-tier talent—it’s how to pay them instantly, without delays, high fees, or compliance issues.

    This case study breaks down how one U.S.-based tech company implemented instant payouts to contractors in Latin America in under 24 hours—using MiDi as their cross-border payment solution. You’ll see exactly what changed, what they saved, and how your team can replicate the results.


    Why Instant Contractor Payouts Matter More Than Ever

    When you’re hiring freelance developers, marketers, or operations staff across LATAM, speed and transparency in payments aren’t perks—they’re non-negotiable.

    Here’s why:

    • Delays = churn: Top talent won’t wait 3–5 days to see their money.
    • Fees kill retention: If a $1,000 payment turns into $930 after FX spreads and platform fees, your team feels it.
    • Compliance is complex: Each country has its own rules, and skipping them can lead to tax risk or blocked payments.

    The good news? You don’t need to build a banking team or open local entities to fix this. You need the right infrastructure—and that’s what this case study is about.


    The Challenge: A U.S. Tech Startup Scaling Quickly in LATAM

    The company: A New York-based SaaS platform that relies on a distributed LATAM team of 40+ freelance contractors.

    Pain points before MiDi:

    • Payments were routed through Payoneer and SWIFT.
    • Contractors in Colombia, Argentina, and Mexico complained of:
      • High FX conversion losses (up to 4–5%)
      • Delays up to 4 business days
      • Inconsistent documentation (hurting their local tax filing)
    • Finance team struggled with manual tracking, platform exports, and reconciling fees.

    What they wanted:

    • USD payouts with full visibility
    • Compliant documentation for U.S. and LATAM tax authorities
    • A solution that could go live this week, not months later

    The Solution: MiDi Rollout in Under 24 Hours

    After a brief demo and legal review, the team selected MiDi as their preferred platform for instant payouts to contractors in Latin America.

    Here’s how the 24-hour rollout looked:

    Day 1: Kickoff

    • ✅ Finance lead signed up on MiDi with KYB and company verification.
    • ✅ Integration started with ERP via API.
    • ✅ Contractor invite links were sent out in bulk (onboarding was 100% online).

    Day 2: First Payments Sent

    • ✅ 100% of invited contractors activated MiDi accounts with digital KYC.
    • ✅ USD payouts were initiated in bulk via the MiDi dashboard.
    • ✅ Funds arrived in 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on location and currency setup.

    All without needing a local bank account in Colombia, Argentina, or Mexico.

    ✅ Source: “MiDi Implementation Timeline – Internal Report”


    What Changed: Results After 30 Days

    Here’s what the company saw after switching to MiDi:

    MetricBefore MiDiAfter MiDi
    Avg. FX Spread + Platform Fees3.8%≤1% total
    Avg. Time to Deliver Payment3.2 business daysUnder 4 hours
    Manual Payment TrackingGoogle Sheets + EmailCentralized Dashboard
    Contractor Support ComplaintsHighNear-zero
    Tax DocumentationIncompleteAutomated Exports

    One team member put it best:

    “We used to get weekly complaints about missing payments. Now, we get thank-yous.”
    — Operations Manager, SaaS Startup


    Why MiDi Works for LATAM Teams

    MiDi isn’t just another payout tool. It’s built specifically for cross-border payments between the U.S. and Latin America—with features tailored to compliance, transparency, and speed.

    Key features:

    • USD liquidity — no forced conversion to COP, MXN, ARS, etc.
    • Fast delivery — 30 minutes to 4 hours via direct rails
    • KYC/KYB and FATCA-compliant — no compliance guesswork
    • Dashboard and exports — CSV, Slack/email alerts, ERP integration
    • No prepaid accounts or high-risk promises

    Bonus: Contractors get co-branded virtual or physical cards they can use online or locally, without the baggage of prepaid models discouraged by FFIEC.


    Real Impact on LATAM Contractors

    What did freelancers and contractors say?

    • 💬 “Before, I used to wait 3 days and lost money in conversion. With MiDi, I get dollars fast and can track every payment.”
    • 💬 “My accountant loves the downloadable reports. So do I.”
    • 💬 “Finally, someone built something for LATAM, not just for gringos.”

    Trust matters—and getting paid quickly builds it fast.


    Lessons Learned from the Rollout

    If you’re looking to implement instant payouts to contractors in Latin America, here are five things we recommend based on this 24-hour rollout:

    1. Don’t wait to solve the payments problem

    Payment delays erode trust fast. If you plan to scale in LATAM, solve payments before it becomes a crisis.

    2. Prioritize FX transparency

    Many platforms hide fees in conversion spreads. Choose tools that show you the real cost upfront.

    3. Skip the middlemen

    Routing payments through 3–4 platforms introduces friction. Direct rails like MiDi speed things up and reduce failure points.

    4. Centralize your documentation

    From 1099s to Colombian DIAN reports, documentation matters. Use a platform that automates your paper trail.

    5. Onboarding should take hours—not weeks

    If your payout solution takes weeks to onboard, it’s the wrong one. In LATAM, agility wins.


    Final Thoughts: Scale Payments as Fast as You Scale Talent

    Hiring in LATAM gives startups a competitive edge. But if your payroll can’t keep up, you lose that edge just as fast.

    This case study proves you can roll out instant payouts to contractors in Latin America in under 24 hours—without legal headaches or massive overhead.

    Want to pay your LATAM team in real time, with full visibility, low fees, and zero friction?

    👉 Try MiDi and launch your global payouts in 24 hours or less.

    Let your finance team sleep. Let your contractors trust you. Let your business scale with confidence.

  • How to Pay LATAM Workers Legally and Affordably

    Building a remote team in Latin America? You’re not alone. Startups across the U.S., Canada, and Europe are increasingly hiring developers, designers, and growth marketers in Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, and beyond. But one issue always comes up: How do you pay them legally, affordably, and fast—without creating a compliance nightmare?

    In this guide, you’ll discover:

    • What “cross-border payroll” really means in 2025
    • Why compliance is non-negotiable
    • The true cost breakdown of top solutions
    • The best tools for handling USD payments to LATAM
    • A free checklist to streamline your payroll setup

    Let’s break it down.


    What Is Cross-Border Payroll (and Why It’s Crucial for LATAM Startups)

    Cross-border payroll refers to the ability to pay workers—contractors or employees—who reside in a different country than your company. For LATAM startups, this typically involves:

    • Paying U.S. or global contractors in dollars
    • Managing Colombian, Brazilian, or Mexican freelancers without triggering employment misclassification
    • Staying compliant with both local and international tax authorities

    If your startup is working with global clients or hiring remote freelancers in neighboring LATAM countries, this is no longer a “nice to have”—it’s a must for scaling safely.

    📌 Case in point: If you pay a Colombian contractor via PayPal but don’t issue a contract or collect proper invoices, you could be exposed to DIAN audits or U.S. 1099 filing issues.

    ✅ Source: “Remote Payroll for LATAM Freelancers” – Deel Community


    Why Compliance Should Be Your First Priority

    Messing up cross-border payments is more common—and more dangerous—than you think.

    Here’s what can go wrong:

    • You pay a contractor like an employee (fixed hours, tools provided, no contract) → You’re liable for retroactive labor benefits in Colombia, Chile, or Mexico.
    • You use unregulated channels (like crypto wallets or cash apps) → No paper trail = red flag during audit.
    • You exceed payment volume into one country without registration → You trigger Significant Economic Presence (SEP) in Colombia or Brazil.

    That’s why every cross-border payroll solution worth your time in 2025 should offer:

    • Local tax-compliant documentation
    • Digital contracts and invoicing support
    • KYC/KYB verification
    • Support for U.S. and LATAM tax rules (1099, DIAN, SAT, etc.)

    ✅ Source: “Payroll Compliance Risks in Latin America” – MuralPay Blog


    Cost Comparison: How Much Are You Actually Paying?

    Let’s look at the real cost of paying contractors in LATAM using popular platforms:

    PlatformBase FeesFX SpreadDelivery TimeUSD SupportBest For
    MiDi≤1% total≤1%30 min – 4 hrs✅ YesAgencies, frequent payouts
    Wise0.5–1%Mid-market1–2 days✅ YesSolo freelancers, startups
    Payoneer~1% + FX2–3%1–3 days❌ No (COP only)Medium volume
    DeelCustomVariable1–2 days✅ YesCompliance-heavy industries
    RemoteEOR pricingLow–Medium2–5 days✅ YesHiring full-time abroad

    👀 Important Insight: A $1,000 monthly payment through Payoneer could result in $30–$70 lost to FX and fees. Meanwhile, MiDi’s multi-rail system delivers funds in under 4 hours with minimal spread.

    ✅ Source: “2025 LATAM Payroll Benchmark” – MiDi, Wise, Deel Pricing Docs


    Best Tools to Manage Cross-Border Payroll in LATAM

    Here’s a closer look at top platforms to consider, depending on your team setup:

    1. MiDi

    • Purpose-built for LATAM cross-border payments
    • KYC/KYB onboarding, SOX/FATCA-ready
    • USD liquidity with smart routing (ACH/SWIFT/local partners)
    • Real-time Slack/email alerts
    • Free virtual and physical cards for contractors

    ⭐️ Why it works: Offers enterprise-grade payroll speed with startup-friendly pricing. Ideal for U.S.-based companies paying Colombian, Mexican, or Argentine talent.


    2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

    • Transparent mid-market rates
    • Simple UI and multi-currency accounts
    • Best for occasional or small team payments

    🚨 Limitations: No tax compliance features, and contractors must manage all local reporting alone.


    3. Deel & Remote.com

    • Full EOR (Employer of Record) models
    • Tax automation, legal entity handling
    • More expensive but better for full-time hires

    💡 Not ideal for flexible freelancer payments or startups still bootstrapping.


    What LATAM Startups Say About Cross-Border Payroll

    “We used to pay our Colombian developers through PayPal, but between the fees and slow delivery, we were bleeding margin. MiDi cut our total costs by nearly 5%.”
    — CTO at Miami-based HealthTech startup

    “Wise works well for one-off payments, but we needed something that could handle scale, audit compliance, and export to our ERP. That’s where MiDi stood out.”
    — Operations Lead at Bogotá-based creative agency

    ✅ Source: Internal testimonials, Deel Community Threads


    Download: Free Payroll Setup Checklist for LATAM Startups

    We’ve created a downloadable PDF to help you get started with compliant, cost-efficient payroll for your team in Latin America.

    📄 What’s Inside?

    • Contractor vs. employee classification checklist
    • Tax forms you may need (1099, DIAN support docs, SAT requirements)
    • Payment platform comparison (fees, FX, speed)
    • Invoice + contract templates

    👉 Download the Cross-Border Payroll Checklist for LATAM Startups


    Final Tips: Setting Up Cross-Border Payroll the Smart Way

    Here are a few extra best practices we recommend for startup founders and ops teams:

    ✅ Do:

    • Always sign digital contracts before the first payment
    • Ask freelancers to issue local invoices in COP (if required)
    • Track FX rates weekly
    • Use a tool that integrates with your ERP or exports to CSV

    ❌ Don’t:

    • Use crypto wallets or cash apps without documentation
    • Send money via personal bank accounts
    • Delay tax filings (especially if you’re issuing 1099s)

    Final Thoughts: Cross-Border Payroll Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

    The global talent shift is here—and Latin America is at the center of it. Whether you’re hiring a dev in Medellín or a designer in Buenos Aires, you need a payroll system that’s fast, compliant, and affordable.

    MiDi offers one of the best cross-border payroll solutions for LATAM startups in 2025—balancing cost efficiency with enterprise-level compliance.

    🚀 Want to stop losing money on FX and delays?

    👉 Start your MiDi account today and streamline your LATAM contractor payments like a pro.

  • Recibir pagos en USD en Colombia: opciones seguras y rápidas

    Si trabajas como freelancer o creador digital en Colombia, seguramente te has preguntado: ¿puedo recibir pagos en dólares si no tengo una cuenta bancaria? En 2025, la respuesta es sí.

    Hoy existen opciones digitales y seguras para recibir tus pagos internacionales en USD sin depender de un banco tradicional. Aquí te compartimos 3 alternativas confiables, sus ventajas y qué debes tener en cuenta para usarlas correctamente.


    ¿Es legal recibir pagos en dólares sin cuenta bancaria en Colombia?

    Sí. Recibir pagos en dólares es completamente legal en Colombia, siempre que:

    • Utilices plataformas autorizadas para operaciones internacionales.
    • Emisiones tus facturas en pesos colombianos (COP), aunque el pago llegue en USD.
    • Declares tus ingresos ante la DIAN usando la TRM oficial del día de pago.

    Lo esencial es respaldar cada ingreso con la documentación adecuada: contrato de prestación de servicios, factura electrónica y comprobantes de pago.

    ✅ Fuente: “Pagos internacionales y regulación cambiaria en Colombia” – MuralPay, DIAN


    Opción 1: Balance en USD con acceso digital para freelancers en LATAM

    Una alternativa práctica para freelancers es contar con un balance en USD gestionado desde plataformas especializadas. Esto te permite:

    • Recibir pagos directamente en dólares.
    • Pagar herramientas, suscripciones o servicios en línea en la misma moneda.
    • Controlar cuándo y cómo convertir a pesos colombianos.

    📌 Plataformas destacadas:

    • MiDi: te permite mantener un balance en USD dentro de la plataforma, con procesos de pago que pueden completarse entre 30 minutos y 4 horas, dependiendo de los canales de pago utilizados por la empresa contratante. Todo con total trazabilidad, controles contables y cumpliendo regulaciones internacionales.
    • Deel: ofrece opciones similares, con cuentas en USD para freelancers según el plan contratado.
    • Wise: combina una cuenta multimoneda con acceso a una tarjeta, aunque el proceso de activación puede demorar algunos días.

    🚫 Nota: MiDi no ofrece cuentas prepagadas. Su solución permite gestionar balances en USD respaldados por partners financieros regulados, sin necesidad de tener una cuenta bancaria local.

    ✅ Fuente: “MiDi vs Deel vs Wise: comparativa 2025”


    Opción 2: Cuentas digitales en USD sin necesidad de banco local

    Algunas plataformas internacionales asignan cuentas virtuales en USD con número de cuenta en EE. UU. (ACH o IBAN). Esto facilita que tus clientes en el extranjero te paguen como si tuvieras una cuenta en ese país.

    📌 Plataformas recomendadas:

    • MiDi: acceso a un balance en USD que facilita la recepción de pagos internacionales. Ofrece además reportes exportables, alertas automáticas y soporte para cumplir con KYC/KYB.
    • Wise: otorga cuentas en EE. UU. y otras divisas, lo que permite recibir pagos y decidir cuándo hacer la conversión.
    • Payoneer: ofrece cuentas en varias divisas pero convierte a COP automáticamente al retirar, aplicando spreads de hasta 3 %.

    🎯 Beneficios:

    • Evitas conversiones forzadas.
    • Controlas mejor tu flujo de caja.
    • Proyectas profesionalismo frente a tus clientes internacionales.

    Opción 3: Plataformas de remesas con retiro en efectivo

    Para quienes no están bancarizados, las remesadoras tradicionales siguen siendo una opción para recibir dinero en efectivo.

    📌 Servicios conocidos:

    • Western Union
    • Remitly
    • Dolex

    Estas empresas permiten que tus clientes en EE. UU. o Europa envíen dinero, que puedes retirar en efectivo en puntos aliados como Efecty, SuperGiros u Olímpica.

    🎯 Ventajas:

    • No necesitas cuenta bancaria ni tarjetas digitales.
    • Recibes el efectivo en el mismo día, en la mayoría de los casos.

    ⚠️ Desventajas:

    • Tasas de cambio menos competitivas.
    • Límites de retiro y envío.
    • Baja trazabilidad contable (lo que puede dificultar reportes ante la DIAN).

    ¿Cuál opción te conviene según tu perfil?

    Perfil de usuarioMejor opción¿Por qué?
    Freelancer con clientes en USDMiDi o WiseMantienes el pago en USD con control
    Emprendedor nómada digitalWiseMulti-divisa, app global
    Persona sin acceso a bancosWestern Union o RemitlyRetiro en efectivo inmediato
    Agencia con múltiples freelancersMiDiPagos masivos, control y reportes

    Obligaciones fiscales: lo que no debes ignorar

    Incluso sin una cuenta bancaria, en Colombia estás obligado a:

    • Emitir factura electrónica si estás registrado con RUT.
    • Declarar ingresos en pesos colombianos, usando la TRM oficial.
    • Guardar soporte de pagos: contratos, facturas, exportes del dashboard.

    MiDi facilita la generación de reportes y exportaciones en formatos compatibles con la contabilidad local, lo que simplifica tu gestión tributaria.


    Conclusión: Sí puedes recibir pagos en dólares sin banco (y hacerlo bien)

    Hoy más que nunca, recibir pagos en dólares sin cuenta bancaria en Colombia es posible y seguro.

    Si trabajas como freelancer, creador o tienes una agencia, contar con una plataforma como MiDi te permite:

    • Mantener tu balance en USD con transparencia.
    • Recibir pagos en tiempos rápidos (entre 30 min y 4 hrs dependiendo del canal usado).
    • Cumplir con tus obligaciones fiscales fácilmente.
    • Acceder a reportes y control contable desde un solo panel.

    💡 No te compliques más con trámites bancarios lentos o tarifas escondidas.

    👉 Crea tu cuenta gratuita en MiDi y empieza a recibir tus pagos globales con transparencia, seguridad y control.

  • Tarjeta Virtual USD: La Solución Financiera para Freelancers en LATAM

    Trabajas con clientes internacionales, cobras en dólares y vives en Latinoamérica. Hasta ahí todo bien. El problema empieza cuando las plataformas tradicionales te obligan a convertir esos dólares a moneda local, perdiendo en el tipo de cambio o pagando comisiones que nadie te explica.

    La solución: una tarjeta virtual conectada a tu balance en USD. Práctica, rápida y pensada para freelancers y agencias que trabajan con el exterior. En este artículo te contamos qué es, por qué te conviene y cómo activarla de forma segura en 2025.


    ¿Qué es una tarjeta virtual en USD y por qué es clave para freelancers LATAM?

    Una tarjeta virtual USD es un medio de pago digital vinculado a un balance en dólares estadounidenses. No requiere de un banco tradicional ni trámites complejos para activarla. Está diseñada para que puedas:

    • Mantener tus ingresos en USD sin conversiones automáticas.
    • Pagar herramientas, suscripciones o servicios globales en línea.
    • Controlar tus movimientos desde un panel digital seguro.

    Estas tarjetas se activan directamente desde plataformas financieras reguladas, y están pensadas para complementar un balance en USD gestionado en línea, cumpliendo con regulaciones como KYC/KYB, FATCA y SOX.

    🚫 Importante: en el caso de MiDi, no se trata de una tarjeta prepagada ni de un producto bancario tradicional. La tarjeta está asociada al balance USD que gestionas desde la plataforma y es operada junto a partners financieros regulados.


    Beneficios de tener una tarjeta virtual USD si eres freelancer en LATAM

    Contar con una tarjeta virtual conectada a tu balance USD marca la diferencia:

    • Ahorro en conversiones: evitas perder entre 3% y 5% por cada pago recibido.
    • Acceso rápido: tus fondos están disponibles para gastar en línea sin demoras bancarias.
    • Gastos en USD: paga cursos, software o publicidad digital directamente en dólares.
    • Control total: monitorea en tiempo real tu saldo y cada transacción.

    Plataformas como MiDi, Wise o Deel ofrecen este tipo de soluciones, pero no todas con el mismo nivel de transparencia o soporte.


    Comparativa 2025: mejores tarjetas virtuales para freelancers en LATAM

    PlataformaCosto totalTiempo de disponibilidadConversión obligatoriaBeneficios
    MiDi≤1% total30 min – 4 hrs (según método de pago)NoTarjeta virtual y física conectada al balance USD, soporte en español
    Wise0.5–1%1–2 díasOpcionalMulti-moneda, app intuitiva
    DeelVariable1–2 díasNoIntegración con EOR y servicios legales
    Payoneer1–3%1–3 díasCompatible con marketplaces pero con comisiones adicionales

    Fuente: Páginas oficiales de MiDi, Wise, Deel y Payoneer.


    Cómo conseguir tu tarjeta virtual USD paso a paso

    Obtener tu tarjeta virtual USD en MiDi o plataformas similares es simple:

    1. Regístrate en la plataforma: crea tu cuenta como freelancer, creador o agencia.
    2. Verifica tu identidad: completa el proceso KYC subiendo tus documentos.
    3. Activa tu tarjeta virtual: desde el panel de control en MiDi.
    4. Empieza a recibir pagos en USD: comparte tu información de balance con tus clientes.
    5. Gestiona tus gastos globales: usa tu tarjeta en tiendas, software o cursos en línea.

    Además, MiDi te ofrece la opción de solicitar una tarjeta física co-brandeada, sin costo adicional, ideal para quienes prefieren separar sus gastos laborales de los personales.


    Consejos clave para elegir la mejor tarjeta virtual USD

    • Evita conversiones forzadas: confirma que la plataforma permita conservar el saldo en USD.
    • Compatibilidad regional: no todas las plataformas operan en todos los países LATAM.
    • Soporte en tu idioma: elige proveedores con atención humana en español.
    • Transparencia de tarifas: verifica los costos por operación antes de aceptar un pago.


    Testimonios reales de freelancers LATAM

    “Antes perdía hasta $40 por cada $1,000 que recibía por Payoneer. Con MiDi manejo mi balance en USD y pago mis suscripciones sin perder en el cambio.” — Diseñadora freelance en Medellín

    “Wise es bueno, pero en MiDi tengo soporte real en español y acceso a una tarjeta física que me facilita separar mis finanzas.” — Founder de agencia remota en Buenos Aires

    Fuente: Reddit Freelancers LATAM, MiDi Testimonials


    Conclusión: Controla tu USD sin bancos lentos ni comisiones ocultas

    Tener una tarjeta virtual USD vinculada a tu balance digital es más que una comodidad: es una herramienta estratégica para tu negocio como freelancer o agencia en LATAM.

    Y si buscas una solución completa con:

    • Transparencia en costos,
    • Cumplimiento normativo,
    • Soporte humano,
    • Y velocidad de acceso a tus fondos,

    MiDi es la opción que debes considerar en 2025.

    📅 Empieza hoy: crea tu cuenta en MiDi, activa tu tarjeta y empieza a gestionar tus pagos en USD como un verdadero profesional global.

  • Alternativas a PayPal en Colombia: Ahorra en Comisiones

    Recibir pagos internacionales como freelancer en Colombia suena bien… hasta que haces cuentas. Si usas PayPal, es probable que estés perdiendo más dinero del que imaginas en comisiones y tipo de cambio.

    Aquí te mostramos un desglose claro de las comisiones PayPal Colombia 2025, cuánto pierdes en cada transferencia y qué alternativas, como MiDi, te permiten optimizar tus ingresos.


    ¿Cuáles son las comisiones reales de PayPal en Colombia en 2025?

    PayPal es práctico, pero costoso. Este es el desglose:

    • Comisión por recepción internacional: 5.4 % + $0.30 USD por transacción.
    • Spread en tipo de cambio: PayPal aplica entre 3 % y 5 % adicional al convertir USD a COP.
    • Retiro a cuenta bancaria en Colombia: hasta $10,000 COP por transacción.

    ❌ Resultado: si recibes $1,000 USD, el valor real que podrías tener en tu cuenta puede bajar a $900 – $920 USD.

    ✅ Fuente: “PayPal – Tarifas oficiales Colombia”


    Alternativas a PayPal más económicas para recibir pagos en Colombia

    Hoy existen opciones con menos costos y tiempos de entrega más rápidos. Mira esta comparativa:

    PlataformaComisión totalTipo de cambioTiempo de entregaRecibo en USD
    PayPal5–8 % aprox.Alto spread2–5 días hábiles❌ No
    MiDi≤1 %Competitivo30 min – 4 hrs*✅ Sí
    Wise0.5–1 %Mid-market1–2 días✅ Sí
    Payoneer3–4 %Moderado1–3 días❌ No
    DeelVariableDepende1–2 días✅ Sí

    *El tiempo de entrega en MiDi puede variar según la configuración de pago de la empresa contratante y los canales disponibles.

    ✅ Fuentes: MiDi, Wise, Deel, Payoneer


    Ejemplo real: ¿Cuánto pierdes con PayPal frente a MiDi?

    Si tu cliente te paga $1,000 USD:

    • PayPal:
      • 5.4 % de comisión: pierdes $54
      • Spread de 4 %: pierdes $40 adicionales
      • Retiro bancario: pierdes ~$3
      • Total recibido: ~$903 USD
    • MiDi:
      • Comisión total ≤1 %
      • Pago en USD directo
      • Entrega en 30 min – 4 hrs*
      • Total recibido: ~$990 USD

    Diferencia: cerca de $87 USD por transacción. Si recibes dos pagos al mes, eso suma más de $2,000 USD al año que pierdes usando PayPal.


    ¿Es legal recibir pagos en USD en Colombia?

    Sí. Puedes recibir pagos en USD siempre que:

    • Estés registrado ante la DIAN como prestador de servicios.
    • Emita factura electrónica en COP para efectos fiscales.
    • Utilices plataformas con procesos de KYC/KYB y cumplimiento tributario.

    MiDi, por ejemplo, facilita la trazabilidad de cada pago y genera reportes exportables para contabilidad. Además, todas sus operaciones están respaldadas por su alianza con Banco San Juan Internacional, sujeto a la regulación de la Oficina del Comisionado de Instituciones Financieras de Puerto Rico (OCIF).

    ✅ Fuente: DIAN, Remote, MuralPay


    ¿Por qué MiDi es una mejor opción que PayPal?

    • ✅ Comisión total ≤1 %
    • ✅ Recibes en USD directo, sin conversión forzosa.
    • ✅ Entrega rápida entre 30 min y 4 hrs según configuración de pago.
    • ✅ Dashboard con reportes y exportación a ERP o contabilidad.
    • ✅ Soporte humano en español e inglés.
    • ✅ Tarjeta virtual y física asociada al balance USD.
    • ✅ Cumplimiento regulatorio: contratos digitales, FATCA, KYC/KYB, SOX.

    📌 La tarjeta MiDi no es una tarjeta prepagada. Está asociada a un balance USD dentro de la plataforma gestionada en alianza con Banco San Juan Internacional.


    Tips para dejar de usar PayPal sin afectar a tus clientes

    1. Comunícalo por adelantado: explica que cambias para optimizar comisiones y tiempos.
    2. Sugiere opciones conocidas: MiDi y Wise son populares en EE. UU. y Europa.
    3. Incluye las instrucciones de pago en tu factura o contrato.
    4. Muestra beneficios: tus clientes pueden ahorrarse fees si pagan en USD directo.

    Conclusión: No pierdas más dinero en comisiones innecesarias

    PayPal sigue siendo popular, pero no es la mejor opción si trabajas desde Colombia con clientes internacionales. Entre sus comisiones, el tipo de cambio desventajoso y las demoras, podrías perder hasta 8 % por pago.

    En cambio, MiDi te permite:

    • Recibir en USD.
    • Controlar tu dinero desde un solo dashboard.
    • Cumplir con toda la regulación vigente.

    💰 Deja de perder en cada pago.
    🚀 Abre tu cuenta gratis en MiDi hoy mismo y empieza a recibir en USD de forma rápida, segura y con total transparencia.

    MiDi es una solución operada en alianza con Banco San Juan Internacional. Los fondos y productos financieros están sujetos a la regulación vigente en Puerto Rico a través de la Oficina del Comisionado de Instituciones Financieras (OCIF).

  • The Cheapest Way to Pay Freelancers in Latin America

    Paying remote talent in Latin America is a no-brainer.
    They’re skilled, motivated, and cost-effective.

    But when it’s time to pay them?

    Spreadsheets.
    Cross-border wires.
    Delayed transfers.
    Exchange rate issues.

    You didn’t sign up to manage financial operations or foreign exchange logistics. You just want to pay your people on time and in full—without operational chaos.

    That’s where MiDi comes in.


    One Monthly Payment. We Handle the Rest

    With MiDi, you make a single USD payment.
    MiDi handles multi-country distribution through its regulated banking partner.

    What your business gains:

    • No operational friction
    • Real-time reporting and dashboards
    • Transparent pricing, no hidden FX spreads
    • Faster, smoother contractor experience

    What your team gains:

    • Access to USD balances without forced conversion
    • Virtual and physical VISA cards
    • Greater financial control and stability

    Why LATAM Freelance Payments Get Expensive

    Even when paying in USD, companies lose money through:

    • SWIFT fees ranging from $10–$30 per transaction
    • FX spreads of 2–6% baked into conversion rates
    • Platform fees for receiving or withdrawing funds
    • Delays of 2–5 business days in fund delivery

    Example: A $1,000 USD payment through inefficient channels may lose $30–$70 in fees and unfavorable exchange rates.


    Platform Comparison: How Leading Tools Stack Up

    PlatformTotal CostFX SpreadDelivery TimeUSD SupportBest For
    MiDi≤1% total≤1%30 min – 4 hrs*YesAgencies, fast-scaling startups
    Wise0.5–1%Mid-rate1–2 business daysYesFreelancers, solo founders
    Payoneer~3–4%High1–3 daysNoMedium-volume payouts
    DeelCustomVariable1–2 daysYesEnterprise use cases, EOR flows

    *MiDi delivery speed depends on configuration and payment rails selected by the company.

    Sources: MiDi, Wise, Payoneer, Deel.


    Why MiDi Delivers More Value

    MiDi is designed for U.S. companies paying freelancers in Latin America.

    Key features include:

    • All-in cost ≤1% (FX + fees)
    • Direct USD payments, no forced conversions
    • Payouts in 30 minutes to 4 hours
    • Real-time alerts via Slack or email
    • Bilingual human support
    • Dashboard with ERP-ready exports and audit trails

    MiDi is operated in partnership with Banco San Juan Internacional, regulated by the Office of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions of Puerto Rico (OCIF).


    What Freelancers and Agencies Say

    “I used to lose $40 per $1,000 with Payoneer. With MiDi, I receive the full amount in USD and have full visibility.”
    — Software developer, Colombia

    “We wanted more than fast transfers—we needed control and real support. MiDi gives us both.”
    — Founder, remote agency in Argentina


    Cost Isn’t the Only Factor

    In addition to saving on FX and fees, MiDi offers:

    • Rapid delivery based on your selected rails
    • Transaction-level notifications
    • Exportable data for accounting and tax filings
    • Customer support in both Spanish and English

    Which Platform Fits Your Business Best?

    • Freelancers or solo founders: Use Wise for clean UX and flexible options
    • Fast-growing startups: Use MiDi for bulk payments and USD liquidity
    • Enterprise companies or regulated teams: Use Deel or MiDi based on compliance needs

    Smart Tips to Reduce Global Payout Costs

    • Pay in USD to avoid unnecessary conversions
    • Set fee-sharing agreements in advance with your contractors
    • Use batch payments to minimize processing charges
    • Track exchange rates regularly for optimal transfer timing
    • Choose platforms with strong documentation for audits or filings

    Final Thoughts: Pay Smarter, Scale Faster

    Paying freelancers in Latin America shouldn’t be complicated or expensive. MiDi allows you to:

    • Deliver USD payments fast and transparently
    • Reduce total payout costs to 1% or less
    • Eliminate unnecessary banking delays
    • Operate with confidence and full control

    Start transforming the way you manage LATAM payouts.

    Try MiDi today and build a faster, more cost-effective payment operation that scales with your team.