Solving Slow Cross-Border Transfers with Bitcoin

Sending money internationally through banks is slow, expensive, and full of hidden fees. Transfers often take 3–5 business days, with costs eating up 6–10% of the total amount. Bitcoin and the Lightning Network offer a faster, low-cost alternative. Here's how they work:

• Speed: Bitcoin transactions settle in minutes, while Lightning payments are nearly instant.

• Lower Fees: Lightning fees are often under $0.01, compared to 2–7% with banks.

• 24/7 Access: No delays due to weekends or holidays.

• Transparency: Payments can be tracked in real time on the Bitcoin network.

• Global Reach: All you need is internet access, no bank accounts required.

U.S. companies like SoFi and Strike are already using this technology to cut costs and improve efficiency for international payments. Platforms like Comet Cash make it easier for businesses to integrate Bitcoin Lightning, offering solutions for fast, secure, and affordable global transactions. However, businesses must navigate U.S. regulatory requirements and set up the necessary technical infrastructure.

Bitcoin and Lightning Network are reshaping how money moves across borders, making payments faster and more accessible for businesses and individuals alike.

Everything to Know About Cross-Border Payments

How Bitcoin and Lightning Network Fix Cross-Border Payment Problems

Bitcoin and the Lightning Network tackle the long-standing issues of delays and high costs in traditional cross-border payment systems. By cutting out intermediaries and streamlining processes, these technologies simplify international money transfers for both individuals and businesses.

Bitcoin's Decentralized Structure

Traditional payment systems often involve multiple banks and intermediaries, which leads to delays and extra fees. Bitcoin was designed to solve these problems with its peer-to-peer system, allowing direct transactions between parties anywhere in the world. There’s no need for middlemen, which means fewer delays and lower costs.

When you send Bitcoin internationally, the transaction is verified by the Bitcoin network, which operates 24/7. This system doesn’t rely on bank approvals or get held up by weekends or holidays. For example, a Bitcoin payment sent from New York can be processed just as quickly as one sent from Tokyo.

"By eliminating intermediaries, Bitcoin enables real-time payments that are not only faster but also more cost-effective." - Thunes

Another advantage of Bitcoin is transparency. Every transaction is recorded on a public ledger, so both the sender and recipient can track the payment in real time.

Lightning Network: Faster Payments and Lower Fees

Built on top of Bitcoin, the Lightning Network takes things a step further by speeding up transactions and slashing costs. It works by creating payment channels between two parties, allowing them to exchange funds instantly. Only the final balance is recorded on the Bitcoin blockchain when the channel is closed, which reduces both transaction times and fees.

While Bitcoin’s main network can handle about seven transactions per second, the Lightning Network can process millions per second - putting it on par with traditional payment processors that manage around 24,000 transactions per second. On top of that, fees on the Lightning Network are often less than a cent, making even small international payments affordable.

"The Lightning Network allows for microtransactions with fees below one cent, making it an extremely cost-effective option for sending money overseas." - Lightspark Team

This technology is already making a real-world impact. In El Salvador, the Lightning Network has been used for international remittances, saving citizens an estimated $400 million annually in transfer fees.

Side-by-Side: Old Systems vs Lightning Payments

Here’s how Lightning payments stack up against traditional systems:

Companies like Strike are already seeing the benefits of the Lightning Network. In regions with limited banking infrastructure, it has significantly boosted cross-border remittances. Plus, its off-chain approach enhances privacy, keeping transactions between parties confidential until the payment channel is closed.

How U.S. Businesses Use Bitcoin Lightning for Global Payments

U.S. companies are shifting away from traditional banking systems and embracing Bitcoin Lightning technology for international payments. This shift addresses long-standing issues like delays and high transaction fees in cross-border payments.

U.S. Companies Using Lightning Payments

The efficiency and cost-effectiveness of Lightning technology have made it an appealing choice for U.S. businesses conducting global transactions.

SoFi Technologies took a bold step in August 2025 by becoming the first U.S. bank to integrate the Bitcoin Lightning Network for international transfers. Partnering with Lightspark, SoFi introduced a service that enables users to convert U.S. dollars to Bitcoin in real time, transfer the funds through the Lightning Network, and convert them back into local currency for recipients. Initially launched for transfers to Mexico, this service operates 24/7 and significantly reduces fees.

"For many SoFi members who regularly send money to loved ones internationally, the ability to quickly transfer money at low cost isn't just a convenience, it's a meaningful improvement to their everyday financial lives." - Anthony Noto, CEO of SoFi

Strike has expanded its "Send Globally" service to countries like the Philippines and Mexico. This platform allows users to send U.S. dollars, which are then automatically converted to Bitcoin, transferred through the Lightning Network, and received as local currency. This streamlined process has made international remittances much more affordable.

Cybrid offers another innovative approach by enabling remittance companies to use Bitcoin for cross-border payments. The platform manages regulatory requirements such as KYC (Know Your Customer), KYB (Know Your Business), and transaction monitoring, freeing businesses to focus on growth rather than compliance complexities.

"Cybrid simplifies compliance by managing KYC, KYB, and transaction monitoring, so you can focus on growing your business." - Cybrid

These real-world applications highlight how Lightning technology is transitioning from concept to everyday utility. Companies like Coinbase and Brazilian neobank Nubank have also adopted Lightning solutions, signaling broader acceptance within the financial sector.

This growing adoption sets the stage for platforms like Comet Cash to offer comprehensive infrastructure solutions tailored to business needs.

Comet Cash: Complete Bitcoin Lightning Infrastructure

To support this trend, Comet Cash provides a fully integrated Bitcoin Lightning infrastructure designed for U.S. businesses. The platform facilitates real-time, non-custodial Bitcoin transactions, allowing businesses to retain full control over their funds while benefiting from the speed of the Lightning Network.

One standout feature is its stablecoin capability, which lets businesses issue digital currencies backed by traditional assets. This adds a layer of stability, especially for companies operating across multiple countries with varying currencies. The platform also streamlines fiat-to-crypto conversions, simplifying cross-border transactions.

Transactions on Comet Cash are settled in less than 2 seconds, a critical advantage for time-sensitive international payments.

Comet Cash offers three service tiers to meet diverse business needs:

• Basic: Entry-level access to Bitcoin infrastructure.

• Pro: Designed for growing businesses, offering stablecoin issuance and team-based node management.

• Enterprise: Tailored for large institutions, providing customizable infrastructure and solutions for sovereign-level operations.

Each tier includes access to SDKs, CLI tools, and an intuitive dashboard, ensuring seamless integration with existing business systems. Additionally, the platform’s APIs and SDKs make it easy for businesses to implement Lightning payments without requiring extensive blockchain expertise. Its non-custodial design also addresses security concerns, giving businesses full control over their funds.

With the global cross-border payments market valued at over $40 trillion in 2024 and projected to grow 5% annually through 2027, businesses that adopt faster and cheaper payment solutions stand to gain a significant edge. Comet Cash positions itself as a key enabler for U.S. businesses looking to thrive in an increasingly digital global economy.

What to Consider Before Using Bitcoin Lightning Infrastructure

Before diving into Bitcoin Lightning infrastructure, U.S. businesses need to understand both the regulatory and technical requirements. While the technology offers exciting possibilities, careful preparation is key to successful adoption.

U.S. Regulatory Requirements

Navigating the U.S. regulatory landscape for Bitcoin and Lightning payments can be challenging, as it involves multiple federal and state agencies with differing rules.

Federal Compliance Requirements are a major consideration. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) classifies many businesses dealing with digital assets as Money Services Businesses (MSBs). This classification requires registration and adherence to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. Additionally, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) oversees securities-related crypto assets, while the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) handles those tied to commodities.

"The complex web of U.S. crypto regulations has significant implications for businesses conducting cross-border payments."

• Lightspark Team

Tax Reporting Obligations add another layer of complexity. The IRS treats cryptocurrency as property, which means every transaction - whether receiving, selling, or exchanging crypto - can create a taxable event. Maintaining accurate records is essential to meet these requirements.

In August 2025, the SEC took action against several crypto platforms for operating as unregistered securities exchanges. This highlights the regulatory hurdles businesses face in this space.

Emerging Regulatory Clarity could make compliance easier. The 2025 GENIUS Act is expected to streamline rules for digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and stablecoins.

"Businesses must take the time to understand the rules for each market and ensure compliance."

• Thunes

Given the fragmented regulatory environment, consulting legal experts is critical. A solid grasp of these rules will also guide the technical strategies needed for a smooth rollout.

Technical Setup Requirements

Once regulatory concerns are addressed, attention shifts to the technical aspects of implementing Bitcoin Lightning infrastructure. From wallet setup to API integration, several factors come into play.

Wallet Configuration is a crucial first step. Businesses can choose between custodial wallets, where a third party manages private keys and payment channels, or non-custodial wallets, which give the business full control. While non-custodial wallets require more technical expertise, they offer greater autonomy.

Hardware and Software Requirements depend on the chosen approach. Running a full Lightning node, for example, involves setting up hardware like a Raspberry Pi and an external SSD, installing Lightning node software, and ensuring a reliable internet connection. Channel management and software updates also require technical know-how.

"The Lightning Network enables fast, low-cost Bitcoin payments using a secure layer-2 protocol."

• Andrew Kamsky, Writer at CCN

API Integration can simplify the process. Platforms like Cybrid offer APIs that make it easier to integrate Bitcoin and Lightning payments without needing in-depth blockchain expertise.

In May 2025, Revolut partnered with Lightspark to enhance Bitcoin Lightning infrastructure in the UK and parts of Europe. This collaboration enabled users to send and receive Bitcoin instantly with minimal fees.

Performance Characteristics make the technical investment worthwhile. Lightning Network transactions are processed in under 2 seconds, with fees that are typically less than a cent.

A well-executed technical setup is essential to unlock the benefits of fast, low-cost global payments enabled by the Lightning Network.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Lightning Payments

What's Next for Cross-Border Payments with Bitcoin Lightning

The Bitcoin Lightning Network is steadily advancing and has the potential to reshape how international payments are handled. As the network grows, improvements in speed, automation, and cost-efficiency are expected to make cross-border transactions even faster and more affordable. These developments could make Bitcoin Lightning a key player in the future of global financial systems.

Companies like Comet Cash are enhancing the ecosystem by introducing features like real-time monitoring, automated channel management, and compliance reporting. These upgrades enable businesses to adopt Bitcoin Lightning with ease, reducing operational complexities while taking full advantage of its rapid and low-cost international payment capabilities.

Conclusion: Using Bitcoin Lightning for Faster Global Payments

Bitcoin, combined with the Lightning Network, offers a game-changing solution for cross-border payments. By enabling transactions that are almost instantaneous and far cheaper than traditional methods, this technology eliminates the need for intermediary banks. Lightning's payment channels simplify international business transactions, turning what used to take days into real-time transfers.

For U.S. businesses looking to modernize global payment systems, platforms like Comet Cash make integrating Bitcoin Lightning easier. They provide tools like real-time Bitcoin payment capabilities, customizable channel management, and intuitive interfaces, helping businesses overcome the technical challenges often associated with adopting this technology.

While the regulatory environment in the United States continues to take shape, businesses can already align with current financial regulations by working with experts who understand both compliance and the technical side of Bitcoin Lightning. This approach ensures a smoother adoption process.

As regulations become clearer and technology continues to advance, the adoption of Bitcoin Lightning is expected to grow rapidly. Companies that embrace this infrastructure now will gain a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected global market.

Transitioning from slow, expensive international transfers to fast, low-cost Lightning payments isn’t just about improving technology - it represents a fundamental shift in how global commerce operates.

FAQs

How does the Lightning Network keep cross-border payments secure and private?

The Lightning Network prioritizes security and privacy through a method called onion routing. This approach encrypts payment information as it moves through the network. Each node along the payment route only has access to the previous and next steps, ensuring the entire path remains hidden from any single participant.

This layered encryption safeguards sensitive transaction details and keeps payments private, all while preserving the network's integrity. It offers a dependable way to transfer funds securely across borders without revealing personal or financial information.

What regulatory challenges do U.S. businesses face when using Bitcoin Lightning for cross-border payments?

U.S. businesses looking to use Bitcoin Lightning for international transactions face a few regulatory hurdles. One major area of concern is adhering to anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations. These rules are designed to prevent illegal financial activities, and companies must ensure they comply when handling cross-border payments.

Another challenge lies in managing tax requirements. Cryptocurrency transactions in the U.S. are often considered taxable events, which means businesses need to keep detailed records for accurate reporting. On top of that, the ever-changing landscape of cryptocurrency regulations adds a layer of uncertainty, making it essential for companies to stay informed about both federal and state laws.

To tackle these issues, businesses can benefit from consulting legal and financial professionals who specialize in cryptocurrency compliance. This approach can help them navigate regulatory complexities and tap into the advantages of Bitcoin Lightning for quicker and more cost-effective global transactions.

How can businesses start using Bitcoin Lightning technology in their payment systems without needing advanced blockchain knowledge?

Businesses looking to integrate Bitcoin Lightning technology can turn to platforms designed to simplify the process. These platforms often provide tools such as APIs and plugins, allowing companies to add Lightning Network support to their existing systems without needing extensive blockchain knowledge.

For instance, some services offer streamlined solutions that handle both standard Bitcoin transactions and Lightning payments. This approach enables faster, more affordable cross-border transfers. By using these tools, businesses can upgrade their payment systems, minimize transaction delays, and maintain a secure, efficient operation.

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