How To Buy Connects On Upwork In Pakistan

Introduction.

If you’re a freelancer in Pakistan, you probably know how Upwork has opened doors to a global marketplace of opportunities.

It’s one of the biggest platforms where clients and freelancers connect, and a major part of getting started on Upwork is understanding how “Connects” works. For those who are new, Connects are like virtual tokens that let you apply for jobs on Upwork.

If you’re not sure how to purchase these in Pakistan, don’t worry—I’m here to guide you through it step by step.

This guide will explain what Connects are, why they matter, and how you can buy them in Pakistan without any stress. Let’s break it all down so you can focus on landing great clients and growing your freelancing career.

What are Connects and Why Do They Matter?

Connects are the currency you need to submit proposals for jobs on Upwork. Think of them as the key to unlocking opportunities.

Each job requires a specific number of Connects to apply. If you run out of Connects, you won’t be able to send more proposals until you get more.

Here’s the breakdown:

You get 10 free Connects when you create a new Upwork account.
Upwork occasionally gives bonus Connects (such as for completing profile-related milestones).
After you use your free Connects, you need to buy more.

For freelancers in Pakistan, the challenge is figuring out how to make payments to buy these Connects, given the limitations with certain payment systems. But don’t worry—it’s completely possible.

How Do I Buy Connects on Upwork in Pakistan?

1. Make Sure You Have an Active Upwork Account

Before buying Connects, ensure your profile is 100% complete. A complete profile makes you more visible to clients and increases your chances of getting hired. Also, Upwork allows purchasing Connects only if your profile is set up and approved.

2. Understand the Payment Methods Supported by Upwork

Upwork supports various payment methods for buying Connects, such as:

Credit/Debit Cards
PayPal
Local payment options (like Payoneer in some cases)

For freelancers in Pakistan, credit or debit cards and PayPal are the most straightforward methods.

3. Use a Credit or Debit Card

Most Pakistani freelancers prefer this method because it’s simple and reliable. Here’s what you need to do:

Log into your Upwork account.
Click on your profile picture or name in the top-right corner.
Select Settings and go to the Membership & Connects section.
Choose Buy Connects and pick the amount you need.
Enter your debit or credit card details to complete the transaction.

Pro Tip: Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions. Most cards from banks like HBL, UBL, or Standard Chartered work well for this purpose.

4. Set Up a PayPal Account (Optional)

PayPal isn’t directly available in Pakistan, but you can still use it by linking your account through an international bank or using services like Payoneer to connect to PayPal. Once set up:

Add your PayPal account to Upwork’s payment methods.
Use it to purchase Connects quickly.

5. Consider Using Payoneer

Payoneer is widely used by freelancers in Pakistan. While it’s primarily for withdrawing funds, some users have reported successfully linking their Payoneer MasterCard to purchase Connects on Upwork.

How Much Do Connects Cost?

Upwork currently charges $0.15 per Connect, and you can buy them in bundles. The smallest bundle is 10 Connects for $1.5, and you can buy up to 80 Connects in one go.

Let’s break it into Pakistani Rupees (PKR):

10 Connects = ~PKR 450 (depending on the exchange rate and bank charges).
80 Connects = ~PKR 3600.

Always keep an eye on exchange rates, as they can slightly affect the cost.

What if I Face Payment Issues?

Sometimes, your payment might not go through because of these reasons:

Your card is not activated for international transactions.
Your bank flagged the payment for security reasons.
Insufficient funds in your account.

Solution:

Contact your bank and ask them to enable international payments.
Use a different card or payment method, such as Payoneer or PayPal.

Why are Connects Important for Success on Upwork?

Freelancers often ask why they should spend money on Connects. The truth is, buying Connects is an investment in your career. Here’s why:

More Proposals = More Opportunities: The more jobs you apply for, the better your chances of landing clients.
Serious Clients Only: Clients who require Connects to submit proposals are less likely to attract spammy or unqualified freelancers, meaning you face less competition.

FAQs

1. Can I Buy Connects in Pakistan Without a Credit Card?

Yes, you can use other options like PayPal or Payoneer if you don’t have a credit card. However, the easiest method remains a debit or credit card enabled for international payments.

2. How Long Does It Take to Receive Connects After Purchase?

It’s usually instant. However, if there’s a delay, check your payment method or contact Upwork’s support team.

3. Are There Any Free Connects?

Yes, new freelancers get 10 free Connects. Sometimes Upwork offers bonus Connects during special promotions or for completing specific profile-related tasks.

4. What Happens If I Don’t Use My Connects?

Unused Connects roll over to the next month if you’re on a paid membership plan. Free plan users lose unused Connects at the end of the billing cycle.

5. Can I Refund My Connects?

Connects are non-refundable. Use them wisely to apply for jobs that match your skills.

Conclusion

Buying Connects on Upwork in Pakistan is easier than you might think. Once you’ve sorted out your payment method—be it a credit card, PayPal, or Payoneer—you’re all set to take your freelancing career to the next level. Remember, Connects are your gateway to applying for jobs and landing clients.

Now that you know how to buy Connects, I’d love to hear: What strategies do you use to maximize your Connects and stand out in proposals? Share your tips below!