Find the best way to send money instantly overseas

Find the best way to send money instantly overseas

If you need to get a payment overseas to someone quickly, you’ll want the best way to send money instantly internationally. We’ve got all you need to know.

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wiring money overseas on a laptop

How can you transfer money instantly?

To send money instantly overseas you’ll need to find a provider which supports your destination country, and which offers fast, modern ways to transfer money. Banks often can’t offer this service, which means picking a specialist can be the best option. Specialist services may offer instant payments for cash collection, or bank deposits which use modern delivery methods, making them faster than old school bank transfers. 

How can you speed up your money transfer?

Once you’ve picked the right provider, there are still a few steps you can take to speed up your money transfer - here are a few pointers:

  • Make sure your provider offers fast and easy account registration and verification
  • Double check the verification documents needed to ensure you have everything ready
  • Upload your ID paperwork in advance if you can, so your payment moves faster
  • Pay by cash in person, or using a credit or debit card for the fastest transfer
  • Check if your provider has an express or instant service, and get a delivery estimate to see when your money will arrive
wiring money overseas on a laptop

What is the best way to transfer money online instantly?

There’s no single best way to transfer money online instantly - it’ll really depend on where you’re sending your payment to, and your personal preferences. Compare a few different services, looking at the delivery speed, transfer fees, exchange rates and payment options, to pick the perfect match for you.

wiring money overseas on a laptop

What is the Best Instant Money Transfer App to send money quickly?

Finding the best instant money transfer app for your payment can make it more convenient to transfer money internationally. Most specialist international money transfer services offer an app as well as an online payment process, with in-app transfers arriving at the same time as payments set up online. 

See if these options serve your destination country - or check out our international money transfer comparison page to learn more:  

  • Wise - 50%+ of payments arrive instantly
  • Western Union - Money in Minutes service offers almost instant cash collections
  • OFX - fee free transfers which arrive in 1 - 3 days

How much does instant transfer cost?

Different payment providers have their own fees for instant transfers, which can include a transfer fee, a percentage markup on the exchange rate, and some third party costs. Faster transfers may mean paying a slightly higher overall cost, either for express delivery, or because of the payment method you choose. For example, paying with a credit card can get your money moving faster - but often incurs third party costs from your own card issuer.

wiring money overseas on a laptop
wiring money overseas on a laptop

My transfer is taking longer than expected. What should I Do?

You’ll usually get a delivery estimate when you set up your payment - if your transfer is taking longer than expected, it could be because of public holidays or working hours in the destination country, delays at the recipient’s bank, or because extra verification steps need to take place.

If your money is delayed more than 48 hours past the estimated arrival time it’s worth contacting the provider directly to ask for support.

How to transfer money from bank to bank instantly?

Banks in many countries, or broader regions such as the Eurozone, can sometimes offer instant local money transfers as long as there’s no currency conversion required. However, this is typically only available for relatively low value transfers - and not normally an option for international payments.

If you’re looking to move money internationally from bank to bank you’ll probably find a specialist service can offer a faster delivery time compared to your normal bank. In fact, some online money transfer service providers, such as Wise in the UK,  also support instant and free local transfers between bank accounts, making them well worth a look wherever you need to send money. 

wiring money overseas on a laptop
wiring money overseas on a laptop

How to Send Money Instantly in a safe way?

International money transfer services are regulated around the world, to make sure they can allow customers to send money instantly in a safe way. Make sure the provider you pick is licensed, with a good reputation and strong customer reviews.

Our international money transfer page offers provider reviews and comparisons - and only features trusted payment services which are fully regulated and safe to use.

FAQs

Is it possible to send money for free?

Some specialist money transfer services and banks allow instant local transfers for free - but sending a payment internationally will always involve a cost, even if it’s not easy to spot. 

Some providers offer international payments which have no upfront transfer fee, but these often include a charge added to the rate used to convert your funds instead. Look out for providers which use the mid-market exchange rate, particularly if they have new customer promotions, as these can represent great value all round.

How can I receive money without a bank account?

If you want to receive a payment without a bank account you’ll have a couple of options, depending on your circumstances. 

You may consider having someone send you money for cash collection, or to a mobile money account, with a provider like Western Union. Or, if it’s available in your region, you could look at an online multi-currency account from a provider like Wise or Revolut, which can be used to receive money internationally fast, and with no hidden fees.

Which is the best company for money transfer?

There’s no single best company for money transfer - the best provider for you will depend on where you’re sending money to, how you want to pay, how the money should be received and the available delivery times. Compare a few providers, looking at the fees and exchange rates, to pick the best one for you.

How do I send money electronically?

Many banks allow customers to send money electronically through their online banking services. However, for international transfers, banks don’t usually offer the best value or the fastest delivery times. While your online banking service is reliable and familiar, using a specialist money transfer provider will probably mean you pay less, and your money arrives faster, too.

Adam Dankhazi
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Last updated
October 3rd, 2022