Guides to paying abroad
Practical explanations of account opening, rates, payments and SWIFT proofs.
Opening a business account: the steps and documents
What we ask for, why we ask for it, and how to get through verification without back-and-forth.
Understanding the daily rate and market hours
When the rate is guaranteed, when it is indicative, and what happens once you confirm a quote.
The SWIFT proof of payment: what it is for
Why your supplier asks for it, what it shows, and where to find it in your account.
Preparing a supplier payment without delays
Invoices, beneficiary details and transfers: the checks that avoid a returned payment.
Who can open an account?
Registered businesses only: importers, distributors, manufacturers, service companies and groups that pay suppliers or entities abroad. Volta does not serve individuals for personal payments.
Which documents are needed?
Your company registration (for example the RCCM), articles of association, tax identification number (for example the NIU), proof of address, and an ID for each director and each beneficial owner. For each payment, the invoice or pro forma invoice.
How is the rate set?
Rates are published every business day. Your quote shows one all-in rate, our margin included, and the exact amount your beneficiary receives. During market hours the rate shown is guaranteed; outside them it is indicative and confirmed before you transfer.
How long is the rate held?
24 hours from the moment you confirm the quote, while you add your beneficiaries and invoices. Before your funds arrive, you can cancel the quote free of charge.
How long does a payment take?
Once your funds are received, payments are usually sent within 48 hours, and as a rule within 72 business hours, subject to compliance checks, public holidays and intermediary banks. You see an estimated credit date in your account.
What does it cost?
Our fee is included in the exchange rate of each quote. The SWIFT payment, proof of payment, invoices and statements are included. Other fees are limited to the cases listed in our price list, such as a return of funds.
Can I pay several invoices at once?
Yes. You can add several invoices and beneficiaries to your payments and settle them by bank transfer, in one or several transfers.
How am I kept informed?
You follow each payment in your account. You are notified by email and WhatsApp when your funds arrive, when each SWIFT proof is available and when everything has been paid.
Your next international payment starts here
Open your business account online, or talk to our team about the corridor you need.