How to Send Money Internationally

Need to help a friend overseas with emergency travel funds, send money back home to family, or cover bills abroad? An international money transfer lets you send funds quickly and securely. 

An international money transfer is the process of sending money to a person or business in another country. 

When you make a transfer, the money typically moves from your account to the other person’s account. Depending on the location, your recipient may also be able to pick up cash at a Western Union location. 

Whatever the situation, a transfer through Western Union makes it simple to support loved ones or pay expenses in another country. 

4 ways to send money abroad 

Bank wire transfers 

Many banks allow you to send money overseas directly from your account to your recipient’s account. While this can be secure, it’s often one of the slower and most expensive options. Bank fees can add up quickly, and transfers may take several business days to process. 

Online transfer services 

Providers like Wise, PayPal, or Remitly make it possible to transfer money online from your computer or mobile device. These services can be convenient, but fees and exchange rates vary widely, and not all recipients have access to them. 

Mobile apps and peer-to-peer services 

Apps like Cash App, Venmo, or Zelle are popular for sending money within the United States, but their international reach is limited. Even when international transfers are supported, they may require the recipient to have a bank account or app account, which can make things complicated. 

Traditional money transfer operators 

Companies like Western Union allow you to send money in person from a partner location (like Advance America), with your recipient able to pick up cash at thousands of locations worldwide. This option is especially helpful if your loved one doesn’t have a bank account or prefers cash. 

What to consider before sending money 

The method you choose to send money abroad can affect not only how quickly your money arrives, but also how much it ultimately costs. Here are some factors to consider: 

Fees and exchange rates 

Some services charge flat fees, while others take a percentage of the transfer. On top of that, exchange rate markups can mean your recipient gets less money than expected. Always compare total costs before committing. 

Speed of transfer 

If you’re sending emergency funds, same-day cash pickup may be the best choice. 

Security and reliability 

Choose a trusted provider with safeguards in place to protect your money. Reputable companies like Western Union have a long track record of secure transactions worldwide. 

Convenience for the recipient 

Think about what works best for your recipient. Do they need cash in hand? Or would a direct deposit to their bank account be easier? The right method is the one that ensures your loved one can access the money with minimal hassle. 

How to send money internationally: 5 steps 

Western Union makes it simple to send money abroad. 

1. Gather your information 

Bring a valid driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID. You’ll also need your recipient’s details, like their full name, banking information (for direct deposit), or the nearest Western Union location if they’re picking up cash. 

2. Start your transfer 

Visit a participating Western Union partner, like Advance America, and let the team member know the amount you’d like to send, along with your recipient’s details. 

3. Pay for the transfer 

The quickest way to send cash is with a debit or credit card. When paying with a credit card, keep in mind that your credit card company likely charges a cash advance fee and associated interest. You can avoid these fees by using a debit card or paying in cash. If you’d rather transfer funds from your bank account, that’s also an option — although the transfer may take longer to complete. 

4. Recipient gets the money 

Once your transfer is submitted, you can let your recipient know how they can expect to receive the money — whether by cash pickup at a participating Western Union location or through direct deposit into their account. 

5. Save your receipt 

Keep your receipt and Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN). Your recipient may need it to collect the funds, and you can use it to track the transfer’s status. 

Send money internationally with Western Union 

With Western Union, you can transfer money to more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. As a Western Union partner, Advance America makes the process easy, secure, and convenient. 

Simply visit an Advance America near you. Our friendly team members will guide you through the transfer process, from collecting your recipient’s details to completing your payment. 

Whether you’re helping family in Mexico, covering expenses overseas, or sending support in an emergency, you can count on Western Union’s global reach and Advance America’s in-person service to get funds where they need to go. 

Common mistakes to avoid 

Sending money internally is simple, but a few common missteps can cause delays and extra costs. 

• Incomplete recipient details. Double-check the spelling of your recipient’s name and account information. Even small errors can cause the transfer to be delayed or rejected.
• Ignoring fees and exchange rates. Always review the total cost of your transfer so you know how much your recipient will actually receive.
• Using unverified providers. Stick with trusted names like Western Union to ensure your money is handled securely.
• Forgetting your receipt or tracking number. Without the MTCN, your recipient may have trouble picking up their funds. 

Sending money internationally FAQs 

Is it safe to send money online? 

While many providers offer online transfers, the safest route is to use a trusted provider like Western Union at a participating location, such as Advance America. In-person service means your transfer is handled directly and securely. 

How long does it take? 

Transfer speed depends on the method. With Western Union cash pickup, your recipient can usually access the money within minutes of your transaction being completed. Direct-to-bank transfers may take longer depending on the destination country. 

Can I send money without a bank account? 

Yes. You can pay for your transfer in cash at Advance America, and your recipient can pick up the funds in cash at a nearby Western Union location. No bank account is required for either party.