Send money from South Africa to the United States. Cheap and fast ways to transfer money abroad
Compare the best transfer fees and rates to send money from South Africa to the United States
Best ways to send money to the United States from South Africa
- Cheapest: WorldRemit
- Best exchange rate: CurrencyFair
- Fastest provider: WorldRemit
- Best rated: WorldRemit
How to send money from South Africa to the United States a step-by-step guide
So, how can I send money from South Africa to the United States quickly and conveniently? Usually the easiest way to send money is to arrange your transfer through a digital service, which means you can get set up without even needing to leave home. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to transfer money from South Africa to the United States online.
If you're sending money from a bank account in South Africa to a bank account in the United States, choosing a specialist provider can be the cheapest and fastest way to make your payment. Different providers have their own processes for arranging payments – but the steps you'll take are usually roughly the same:
- 1Choose a way to send money
often the easiest way to send money is to set up your payment online or through an app. You can use your bank’s online transfer system if you’d rather stick with a familiar option, or compare a few specialist international money transfer services which can often have a lower overall cost and a faster service compared to a bank - 2Compare providers with our handy comparison table
enter the amount you want to send from South Africa to the United States to generate instant comparison quotes from our selection of safe and reliable money transfer services. You’ll be able to see the fees and exchange rates available, the delivery speed and how much the recipient will get in the end, so you can pick the right service for your needs - 3Register
you’re using an online money transfer service for the first time, you’ll need to register an account and get verified. This can usually be done with just your phone by entering your personal contact information and uploading images of your ID alongside with your address documents. If you’d prefer to send your money with a bank you’ll need to open an account first – this can often be done online or by going to your local branch in person, but you may need to make an opening deposit before you can access services payment. - 4Start your transfer
log into your bank or provider account, and start your transfer by entering the amount of money you want to send, and the currency it should be received in. Depending on the provider you’re using you may be able to choose from different payout options, such as bank deposit or cash collection. You’ll need to follow on screen prompts to enter all the recipient details to ensure your transfer can be made securely
How to send money from South Africa to the United States a step-by-step guide
Banks and specialist international money transfer services each have their own pros and cons, so you’ll need to compare a few to decide which is best for you. Here are a few important factors to consider:
- Transfer time: Transfer times can vary a lot. While some specialist money transfer services can deliver your payment instantly or in just a few minutes, it’s common for banks to take 3 to 5 days if the transfer is processed using the SWIFT network. In our comparison, the fastest way to send money from South Africa to the United States was with WorldRemit. Interested in how to send money instantly? There’s more on the fastest way to send money from South Africa to the United States here.
- Transfer fees: When you send an international payment you may have several different fees to pay including an upfront transfer fee, exchange rate markup and possible third party costs. Some providers split out all their fees transparently, but it’s not always the case. That means you’ll have to carefully compare both the stated transfer fees and the exchange rates to see which is the best overall value. In our comparison, WorldRemit had the lowest overall cost when sending money from South Africa to the United States.
- Required documentation: For security reasons and to comply with international laws, you’ll often need to provide proof of your ID and address when sending a payment abroad. This can normally be done using a government issued ID document like your passport or driving license, and a bank statement or utility bill which shows your name and address clearly. Higher value transfers may also require extra paperwork, such as proof of the source of the funds. Learn more about the documents needed when sending money from South Africa to the United States here.
- Exchange rates: Banks and money transfer services set their own exchange rates, which can include fees. Use a currency converter tool to check the mid-market exchange rate, and compare this against the rates offered by different providers, to pick the one that’s best value for your specific needs.
What are the best methods to transfer money?
Banks and specialist international money transfer services each have their own pros and cons, so you’ll need to compare a few to decide which is best for you. Here are a few important factors to consider:
- Wire Transfer: Sending a bank wire transfer is safe, familiar and reliable. You can usually set up your wire online or through your bank’s app, or call into a branch. Wire transfers arranged through a bank can be fairly expensive, including a transfer fee and a markup added to the transfer rate, plus possible third party costs from correspondent banks.
- Online Money Transfer Service Providers: Online money transfer providers let you register and arrange a payment using nothing more than your phone or laptop. Different providers have their own features and fees, which may include varied pay out methods and fast or even instant delivery times. Specialist online money transfer services like WorldRemit or CurrencyFair offer fast and reliable transfers from South Africa to the United States.
- Cryptocurrency Transfers: If your recipient has a cryptocurrency wallet, you could consider sending your payment as a cryptocurrency transfer. The costs of making a cryptocurrency transfer can vary based on the specific currency and the transfer service you pick.
- Cash Pickup Services: Many providers like Western Union and Remitly offer cash pickup services which allow recipients to collect their payment in cash from a local agent. This can be fast and convenient, particularly if you’re sending to someone without easy access to a bank account. Fees may be higher compared to sending money for deposit to a bank account.
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Compare money transfer services from South Africa to the United States
Shopping around is the best way to find the right service for your payment from South Africa to the United States. Our handy comparison tool makes the job easy.
We’ve taken a selection of reputable, reliable and safe money transfer services and rated them based on cost, speed and customer trust, to help you pick the right one for you. Our table starts from least to most expensive provider, so you can easily see the cheapest way to send money from South Africa to the United States, taking into account transfer fees and available exchange rates.
- Money transfer services compared: 2 services
- Currently the cheapest: WorldRemit
- Cheapest cost: 69.05 ZAR
- Currently the fastest: WorldRemit
- Fastest time: 1-2 Days
- Currently best rated: WorldRemit
- Money transfer companies included: WorldRemit, CurrencyFair
What is the cheapest way to send money from South Africa to the United States?
- WorldRemit: 69.05 ZAR
- CurrencyFair: 84.87 ZAR
Need the cheapest way to send money from South Africa to the United States? When sending money from South Africa to the United States, WorldRemit offers the best rate at 0.0539 for South African Rand/US Dollar and charges a fee of 69.05.
WorldRemit, the cheapest option, has a South African Rand/US Dollar exchange rate of 0.0539 and a fee of 69.05 ZAR.
This would save you 15.83 ZAR compared to CurrencyFair, who has a fee of 84.87 ZAR.
You'll want to pay attention to both the upfront fee the provider shows you as well as the South African Rand/US Dollar exchange rate.
Often providers will claim to be a cheap international wire transfer provider, with low, or even no fees, but in reality they're hidden within the exchange rate. Right now, South African Rand/US Dollar interbank rate is 0.055. Whenever you compare fees for transferring money to the United States, it can pay off to look at the exchange rate they offer.
Finding alternative ways to transfer money to the United States shouldn't be hard, we've put together a list of cheap ways to send money to the United States to help you with your search.
For example, most traditional banks add a hidden markup to the exchange rate they offer you. If 1 ZAR is 0.055 USD, your bank can add a 3% exchange rate markup and give you a rate of R 1 = 0.057 $
- WorldRemit is the cheapest option, with a ZAR/USD exchange rate of 0.0539. Their fees to transfer money to the United States is 69.05 ZAR
- CurrencyFair offers a ZAR/USD exchange rate of 0.0543. Their fees to transfer money to the United States is 84.87 ZAR
What is the fastest way to send money to the United States?
- WorldRemit: 1-2 Days
- CurrencyFair: 1-3 Days
Interested in finding the fastest way to send money from South Africa to the United States? When sending money from South Africa to the United States, it’s good to know that a dedicated money transfer service can often process your transfer faster than banks, which typically take 3-5 working days. For instance, the quickest provider on our comparison table aims to complete your transfer in 1-2 Days.
That’s because banks typically rely on the SWIFT network for international transactions. This means your money passes through multiple intermediaries, causing delays. In contrast, online money transfer services have established their own efficient networks, ensuring quicker and sometimes even instant transfers to your recipient’s account.
The fastest provider in our table to transfer money from South Africa to the United States is WorldRemit – 1-2 Days.
Learn more about instant international money transfer methods here.
What is the best rated provider to transfer money to the United States from South Africa?
Of the 2 providers we found for transferring money to the United States, here's how they stack up in terms of number of reviews and average score:
- WorldRemit - Trustpilot rating: 3.5, Average
- CurrencyFair - Trustpilot rating: 3.5, Average
What is the safest way to send money?
Choosing an international money transfer service can feel like a risk. However, our comparison tool recommends secure providers which operate within the law in any part of the world they’re in.
The safest way to send money from South Africa to the United States is to select a provider which is properly registered and regulated both in the South Africa and United States. There are many global regulators around the world, and it’s common for international money transfer providers to be registered and regulated by dozens of different bodies, depending on where they operate.
In the United States for example, you’ll usually find providers are registered with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), and they may also need to hold a state license depending on how they’re set up.
What is the best app to send money from South Africa to the United States
Most online providers also have international money transfer apps which allow you to send money abroad instantly, right from your phone or other smart device. Choosing the best app to send money from South Africa to the United States will often simply come down to your personal preference and the type of phone you have.
| Provider | Website |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|
| WorldRemit | |||
| CurrencyFair |
WorldRemit: from South Africa to the United States
WorldRemit offers a selection of ways to transfer money abroad to 56 countries, online or in the WorldRemit app. There’s a good range of payout options available, which varies by destination but which can include cash collection services.
- Send money overseas to 56 countries
- Pay out options can include cash collection services
- Set up your payment online or in app, pay by bank transfer or with a card
- You can’t pay for your transfer in cash
- Exchange rates may include a markup
How much does it cost to send money [to-target-country] with WorldRemit?
- Transfer fees: Fees vary by transaction type, new customer promotions are available
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates may include a small markup
- Additional fees: Fees vary based on how you choose to pay, and the currencies involved
CurrencyFair: from South Africa to the United States
CurrencyFair can be a cheap international money transfer service with quick delivery times on many currency routes. There’s a low, flat fee per transfer, and you could also find you get a better exchange rate compared to your regular bank.
- Send in 15 currencies
- Low transfer fees
- Many currencies can be delivered on the same day, or within 1 working day
- Exchange rates include a markup
- Pay in South African Rand by bank transfer only, no card option
How much does it cost to send money to the United States with CurrencyFair?
- Transfer fees: 84.87 ZAR
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a markup
- Additional fees: Third party fees may apply depending on how you set up your transfer
How to do bank transfers from from South Africa to the United States
Using a bank transfer from South Africa to the United States is one of the most straightforward methods for both the sender and the recipient. The recipient doesn’t have to do anything, the funds simply arrive in their account in the chosen currency, ready for use or withdrawal.
If you’re looking to wire money from South Africa directly to a bank account in United States, choosing a specialist provider can be cheaper and quicker than an international bank transfer. While different providers have different steps to process payments, the following steps usually apply to most:
Choose and Register: Begin by selecting a regulated bank or money transfer provider that supports international bank transfers from South Africa to the United States.
Account Verification: For enhanced security and to comply with international financial regulations, banks and online transfer providers require users to verify their identity before sending a wire money transfer. This process usually includes uploading digital copies of proof of ID (such as a passport or driving license) and a proof of address (like a utility bill or bank statement).
Fund Your Account: Once registered, you’ll need to deposit funds. While there are multiple methods available, local bank transfer or using a debit card are usually the most economical options.
Initiate the Transfer: With your account funded, add your recipient’s full name and their bank account details. Check everything over, and start your transfer.
Remember, the speed and efficiency of your transfer can vary based on the provider you choose. It’s always wise to compare rates, reviews, and transfer times before making a decision.
What details do you need to send money?
Sending money internationally can seem complicated, especially if this is your first time sending money to the United States from South Africa.
Whether you’re a business making a payment, an expat supporting your family, or just sending a gift, you will need a few important details to get your transfer to the right place. We’ve narrowed down the essential information you’ll need to make your transfer:
Recipient’s Full Name: Ensure you have the recipient’s full legal name as it appears on their bank account.
Recipient’s Address: This includes their street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
Bank Name: The name of the recipient’s bank in the US.
Routing Number: A nine-digit number that identifies the recipient’s bank, crucial for transfers to US bank accounts.
Account Number: The recipient’s bank account number.
SWIFT/BIC Code: Important for international transfers to US banks.
How can you pay for your transfer?
Different money transfer services offer different ways to fund your international money transfer.
Usually, bank transfers tend to be the most inexpensive way to transfer money, which is why we use it for our comparisons as the default payment method on Exiap. Let’s explore some of the other payment methods as well for transferring money from South Africa to the United States using these services:
Bank transfer, Card (debit or credit), Prepaid card, Apple Pay
Online
How to send a large amount of money to someone from South Africa to the United States?
Before you send a large amount of money to someone in from South Africa to the United States you may want to take the following steps:
Research Multiple Providers: By comparing provider rates, fees, and user reviews from different providers, you’ll be able to get the best deal for your transfer.
Check the limits: Ask your provider if they have any payment limits, and check if your own bank has limits on local transfers.
Prepare your account and funds: Complete your account verification in full and prepare to fund your transfer with a debit card or bank transfer to avoid delays.
Monitor Exchange Rate: If your transfer isn’t time-sensitive, tracking exchange rates and waiting until the currency South Africa/United States exchange reaches its peak value can help you to save money on your transfer.
Prepare for additional checks: Ask your provider if you’ll need any further paperwork to send a large amount of money from South Africa to the United States. For example, you might need to show the source of the funds, or give details about what the payment is for.
Best way to send large amounts of money?
Choosing the right provider when sending large amounts of money from South Africa to the United States can help you save on fees and hidden exchange rate markups. Banks and online transfer providers can add hidden markups in their rates, which can quickly grow as the amount you are looking to send increases.
Money transfer providers often offer discounts for high amount transactions, which may mean as reduced fees or more favorable exchange rates. To ensure you’re securing the most advantageous offer for your transfer, use the Exiap cost comparison calculator and evaluate all options available.
International money transfer limits to from South Africa to the United States
While there’s no legal cap on the amount of money that can be transferred from South Africa to the United States, individual banks, online transfer services, and other payment providers often set their own limits. These limits can vary based on your payment method. As an example, the limit to send money from South Africa to the United States when paying with a card may differ from the limit for bank transfers.
How much does it cost to send money?
The cost of transferring money internationally can vary based on the service provider, the amount being sent, and the method of transfer. Bear in mind also that wire transfer fees from South Africa to the United States can include upfront costs, an exchange markup and extra third party fees added by correspondent banks.
When sending your money from South Africa to the United States using an online money transfer provider, the cost of transferring 1000can range from 69.05 to 84.87, including provider transfer fees and any exchange rate markups the transfer provider might apply. If you plan to send with a bank, you could pay more overall. Bank costs often include a transfer fee, exchange rate markup, and SWIFT fees which are paid to third parties involved in the transfer.
As an example: the lowest cost option to send money from South Africa to the United States would be WorldRemit with the total cost of 69.05 using a 0.0539 South African Rand/US Dollar exchange rate.
By using WorldRemit compared to CurrencyFair you could save up to 15.83 ZAR on the total cost of your transfer.
How long does it take to send money from South Africa to the United States?
If you make a wire transfer from South Africa to the United States, how long will it take to arrive? The answer here will depend on multiple factors such as the chosen money transfer service, the payment method, and how the recipient wishes to receive it.
Based on the 2 providers we reviewed, an international wire transfer can take from 1-2 Days to 1-3 Days to arrive when sending money from South Africa to the United States if you pay for your transfer with a debit card or bank transfer.
WorldRemit offers the quickest money transfer from South Africa to the United States. On the other hand, CurrencyFair has the longest transfer duration for South African Rand, taking 1-3 Days.
Go to WorldRemitSouth African Rand/US Dollar exchange rate trends
Understanding South African Rand/US Dollar exchange rate changes can help you to make better informed decisions on when to send your international transfer. Exchange rates are constantly changing, due to factors such as supply and demand, geopolitical events, and economic indicators.
Rate Monitoring: WorldRemit offers the quickest money transfer from South Africa to the United States. On the other hand, CurrencyFair has the longest transfer duration for South African Rand, taking 1-3 Days.
Rate Alerts: Consider setting up rate alerts with our rate tracking tool. This service will notify you when the South African Rand/US Dollar exchange rate reaches your desired threshold. For the best monitoring and alert tools, take a look at Currency Live’s recommendations.
Best money transfer rate to from South Africa to the United States?
For transfers from South Africa to the United States, the mid-market exchange rate often offers the best value. This is the rate at which banks handle currency exchanges in the worldwide markets.
Individuals transferring money overseas don’t always get this rate. In most cases providers add a markup to the rate they quote customers. This inflates the overall fee, making the exact cost of your international money transfer less transparent.
The provider with the best exchange rate is CurrencyFair with the South African Rand/US Dollar exchange rate of 0.055.
Send money online with a credit card or debit card
Most of the international transfer providers allow credit or debit card payments. While this method can speed up your transfer, it might also introduce added fees, making it less cost-effective than a bank transfer.
Here’s a handy list of providers that support card payments:
- WorldRemit: Bank transfer, Card (debit or credit), Prepaid card, Apple Pay
- CurrencyFair: Online
Conclusion
The best way to send money from South Africa to the United States varies for everyone, depending on what the priority is for you.
For those looking for the cheapest option, WorldRemit is the most affordable international money transfer service. On the other hand, if you are looking to get your transfer across the fastest way possible, WorldRemit is the ideal choice, ensuring your funds reach to the United States in 1-2 Days.
If you’re concerned about safety, you can take comfort in the fact that all of our reviewed providers are trusted and regulated, guaranteeing secure transfers from South Africa to the United States.
Frequently asked questions when sending money from South Africa to the United States
There’s no single best way to transfer money online, but by shopping around and using our handy comparison tools you can find a selection of great options, to pick the best for your specific needs. In our comparison, we found WorldRemit to be the cheapest payment service available for your transfer. Compared to CurrencyFair you could save up to 15.83 ZAR on the total cost of your transfer, when you pick WorldRemit.
If you’re wondering – can I send money from South Africa to the United States safely and legally – you can rest assured it’s possible. Use the Exiap comparison table to review services like WorldRemit and CurrencyFair which let you send money from South Africa to the United States conveniently online.
International money transfer services and banks have their own limits to send money from South Africa to the United States. Maximum amounts may vary based on your preferred payment method, and you might have to provide extra documents such as a proof of the source of your funds if you’re sending a very high value transfer.
It’s not usually possible to send money from South Africa to the United States for free, but it is well worth looking out for special offers and promotions from different providers.These offers may give you reduced transfer costs, better exchange rates, or even waive fees entirely once or twice if you’re a new customer.
The exchange rate used to convert your payment makes a big difference to the amount the recipient will get in the end. Banks and international money transfer services set their own exchange rates which can include an extra fee, known as a markup. Bank exchange rates may include a markup as high as 3% which pushes up the costs overall.
In our comparison, the best available exchange rate was with CurrencyFair with the South African Rand/US Dollar exchange rate of 0.055.
Bank wires are often processed using the SWIFT network, which involves passing a payment through several different correspondent banks before it’s deposited in the recipient’s account. This is a reliable and established method, but it can take several days and involve high overall costs.
International money transfer services have often established their own payment networks to allow them to avoid SWIFT and make transfers cheaper and faster.