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Receiving a money transfer from overseas

The ins and outs of receiving money from an overseas sender.

Alison Banney

Updated Nov 6, 2020. What changed?

Fact checked

With the right tools at your disposal, you can find the best deal and have quick access to your funds when you receive a money transfer from abroad.

What is the best way to receive money from overseas?

The best way to receive money from overseas depends on your specific situation. For many people, receiving the money straight to their bank through an international wire transfer is the most convenient, even if it can be expensive. Typically it is cheaper to use a money transfer company since these types of companies specialize in sending money overseas and offer lower fees and stronger exchange rates than banks.

From cheapest to most expensive, the best way to receive money from overseas is:

International money transfer company — Find a company that fits your needs by comparing a variety of companies before you receive your transfer.
Money order – Sometimes called a bank draft, an international money order is an inexpensive and slow way to receive money.
Mobile wallet – Having money delivered to a mobile wallet isn’t a popular option in Canada, but if it is available this option is convenient.
Cash delivery Consider having your money sent to a local money transfer agent location so that you can pick it up in cash. Some services will even deliver it straight to your home.
International wire transfer – International wires through the bank often get charged fees on both ends, both to send and to receive the transfer from abroad.

Compare international money transfer companies to receive money

Use our comparison table to see how much money you could receive through different money transfer companies. Enter the amount you’ll be receiving, the currency in which it will be sent, then click Calculate.

How to receive money using our comparison tool

View. Sort through different international money transfer providers and services by exchange rate, amount received, transfer speed and more.
Compare. Figure out your best option by comparing companies side-by-side.
Save. To read more about a product, click on the company’s logo. To start an application or transfer, click Go to Site.

I want to send

Min. Transfer Amount	Transfer Speed	Online Transfer Fee	Rate	Amount Received	Description	CTA	Details
CAD 1	Same day	CAD 0.00	0.807	USD 8,066	XE has fast transfers with low fees and a range of foreign currency tools.	Go to site	Compare	Show details	Details Minimum transfer amount CAD 1.00 Transfer methods Online, Phone, Bank Account to Bank Account Transfer options Regular payments, One off payments, Market orders, Forward contracts Customer service Phone, Email Available currencies AED, AMD, AUD, BAM, BBD, BDT, BGN, BHD, BND, BRL, BWP, CAD, CHF, CLP, COP, CRC, CVE, CZK, DJF, DKK, DOP, EUR, FJD, GBP, GEL, GTQ, HKD, HNL, HRK, HUF, IDR, ILS, INR, JMD, JOD, JPY, KES, KRW, KWD, KZT, LKR, LSL, MAD, MKD, MUR, MWK, MXN, MYR, NAD, NOK, NZD, OMR, PEN, PGK, PHP, PKR, PLN, PYG, QAR, RON, RSD, RUB, RWF, SAR, SBD, SCR, SEK, SGD, SZL, THB, TMT, TND, TOP, TRY, TTD, TWD, TZS, UGX, USD, VUV, WST, XCD, XPF, ZAR Go to site Read the full review
USD 150	1 day	CAD 0.00	0.807	USD 8,074	Exclusive offer: Discounted exchange rates for your first and ongoing transactions. $0 transfer fee. OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 45+ currencies.	Go to site	Compare	Show details	Details Minimum transfer amount USD 150.00 Transfer methods Online, Phone, Agent Transfer options Regular payments, One off payments, Market orders, Forward contracts Customer service Phone, Email Available currencies AED, ARS, AUD, AZN, BGN, BHD, BND, BRL, CAD, CHF, CLP, CZK, DKK, EGP, EUR, FJD, GBP, HKD, HUF, IDR, ILS, INR, JPY, KRW, KWD, LKR, MAD, MGA, MXN, MYR, NOK, NZD, OMR, PEN, PGK, PHP, PKR, PLN, RUB, SAR, SBD, SCR, SEK, SGD, THB, TOP, TRY, TWD, TZS, USD, VEF, VND, VUV, WST, XAF, XOF, XPF, ZAR Go to site Read the full review
CAD 2,000	1 day	CAD 0.00	0.807	USD 8,073	TorFX guarantee to beat any competitor's exchange rate for a transaction. Conditions apply. TorFX sends money overseas in 30+ currencies, with competitive rates for transfer amounts over $2,000.	Go to site	Compare	Show details	Details Minimum transfer amount CAD 2,000.00 Transfer methods Online, Phone, Agent Transfer options Regular payments, One off payments, Market orders, Forward contracts Customer service Phone, Email Available currencies AED, AUD, CAD, CHF, CZK, DKK, EUR, GBP, HKD, HRK, HUF, ILS, JPY, NOK, NZD, PLN, SEK, SGD, THB, TRY, USD, ZAR Go to site Read the full review
CAD 10	Within an hour	CAD 1.99	0.802	USD 8,016	Special offers like free transfers and better exchange rates available for new customers. Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.	Go to site	Compare	Show details	Details Minimum transfer amount CAD 10.00 Transfer methods Online, Bank Account to Bank Account, Cash Transfer Transfer options N/A Customer service Phone, Chat, Email Available currencies ARS, BDT, BGN, BOB, BRL, CAD, CLP, CNY, COP, CRC, CZK, DOP, EGP, ETB, GHS, GTQ, GYD, HNL, HRK, HTG, HUF, IDR, INR, JMD, KES, KMF, KRW, LKR, MAD, MXN, MYR, NIO, NPR, PEN, PHP, PKR, PLN, PYG, RON, RWF, THB, TND, TRY, TZS, UGX, USD, UYU, VND, XAF, XOF, ZAR Go to site Read the full review
USD 10,000	1 - 2 days	CAD 0.00	0.804	USD 8,038	Dunbridge Financial offers competitive exchange rates and zero fees on transfers to more than 120 countries.	Go to site	Compare	Show details	Details Minimum transfer amount USD 10,000.00 Transfer methods Online, Phone, Bank Account to Bank Account Transfer options Regular payments, One off payments, Market orders, Forward contracts Customer service Phone, Chat, Email Available currencies AED, AFN, ALL, AMD, ARS, AUD, AZN, BAM, BDT, BGN, BHD, BIF, BMD, BOB, BRL, BWP, BYR, CAD, CHF, CNY, COP, CRC, CZK, DKK, DOP, DZD, EGP, ETB, EUR, FJD, GBP, GEL, GHS, GMD, GTQ, HKD, HNL, HRK, HUF, IDR, ILS, INR, IQD, ISK, JMD, JOD, JPY, KES, KGS, KHR, KMF, KRW, KWD, LAK, LBP, LKR, LRD, MAD, MDL, MGA, MKD, MMK, MNT, MOP, MUR, MVR, MXN, MYR, MZN, NGN, NIO, NOK, NPR, NZD, OMR, PAB, PEN, PGK, PHP, PKR, PLN, QAR, RON, RSD, RUB, RWF, SAR, SBD, SCR, SEK, SGD, SLL, THB, TJS, TND, TRY, TTD, TWD, TZS, UAH, UGX, USD, UYU, VND, VUV, WST, XOF, XPF, YER, ZAR, ZMW, ZWD, BYN Go to site Read the full review
CAD 1	1 - 2 days	CAD 90.00	0.811	USD 8,034	Wise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 45+ currencies.	Go to site	Compare	Show details	Details Minimum transfer amount CAD 1.00 Transfer methods Online Transfer options One off payments Customer service Phone, Email Available currencies AED, ARS, AUD, BDT, BGN, BRL, BWP, CAD, CHF, CLP, CNY, COP, CRC, CZK, DKK, EGP, ERN, EUR, FJD, GBP, GEL, GHS, HKD, HRK, HUF, IDR, ILS, INR, JPY, KES, KRW, LKR, MAD, MXN, MYR, NGN, NOK, NPR, NZD, PEN, PHP, PKR, PLN, RON, RUB, SEK, SGD, THB, TRY, TZS, UAH, UGX, USD, UYU, VND, XOF, ZAR, ZMW Go to site Read the full review
GBP 5,000	1 - 2 days	CAD 0.00	0.807	USD 8,072	CurrencyTransfer lets you shop around for the best exchange rate on its online marketplace.	Go to site	Compare	Show details	Details Minimum transfer amount GBP 5,000.00 Transfer methods Online, Phone, Bank Account to Bank Account, International Money Order Transfer options Regular payments, One off payments, Market orders, Forward contracts Customer service Phone, Email Available currencies AED, ARS, AUD, BGN, BHD, BRL, CAD, CHF, CNY, CZK, DKK, ERN, EUR, GBP, GHS, HKD, HNL, HRK, HUF, ILS, INR, JMD, JOD, JPY, KES, KWD, MAD, MUR, MXN, NGN, NOK, NZD, OMR, PHP, PKR, PLN, QAR, RON, RUB, SAR, SEK, SGD, THB, TND, TRY, TTD, UGX, USD, ZAR Go to site Read the full review

Compare up to 4 providers

Disclaimer: Exchange rates change often. Confirm the total cost with the provider before transferring money.

Bank information needed when receiving money from overseas

In order to receive money from overseas, you’ll need to provide specific details about your bank, including:

Bank institution number
Bank account number
Transit number
Full name
Street address

If you decide to pick the transfer up as cash or have it delivered to a digital wallet, the information you’ll need to provide will vary.

How does receiving money from overseas work?

The process may differ depending on the service provider used to send the funds. With some money transfer services, you need to request the transaction reference number from the sender and present the number along with your identification documents. You may also be required to fill out a receive form to access your funds.

With online transfers, the funds are deposited into your account, after which you can withdraw them. You can also receive funds through a prepaid card or mobile wallet.

What type of money transfer should I use to receive money?

Money transfers come in many varieties, all of which can be used to receive money from overseas.

Online transfer. You can use online payment services to transfer and receive funds. The funds are converted into the recipient’s currency.
Money transfer. Money transfer companies that offer cash pickup are an easy way to receive money. Just double-check that there’s an agent location near you before agreeing to receive a cash transfer.
Prepaid card. You can access your funds through an ATM when using a prepaid card to receive money.
Mobile wallet. Receive and send funds directly from your smartphone when using a mobile wallet.

How do I compare international money transfer services when receiving money?

Fees. This is one of the most essential considerations when comparing money transfer providers. Comparing fees allows you to find the most cost-effective option. But remember to find out about the fees that apply to both the sender and the recipient.
Accessibility. Make sure money transfer providers service your area. Find out if the funds are widely accessible in the areas and via the methods you need.
Exchange rates. As the funds are received in the recipient’s currency, you need to determine which of the providers you wish to use has the best rates. Exchange rates could work to greatly decrease the amount sent.
Reputation. You want your funds transfer to be handled by a reputable company. However, there are many money transfer companies to be found online, so the only way you can ensure that your funds are safe is by going with a trusted provider. Look at each company’s history and customer reviews before making a decision.

Do I have to pay taxes when receiving money from overseas?

No, there are no taxes simply for receiving a money transfer in Canada. However, an incoming transfer could trigger a tax if the money is earned or used in a taxable way. For example, if you receive money as profit from an overseas business venture, you’ll have to report this on your annual tax return as part of your income. Learn more about tax regulations for large international money transfers into Canada in our guide.

What are the pros and cons of receiving money from an international money transfer service, rather than a bank?

Pros

Simplicity. Most money transfer systems offer simplicity when it comes to sending and receiving money. You can also receive funds immediately once they’re transferred.
Variety. There are various methods one can use to receive money, so you’re not forced to work with one service provider.
Security. If you use a trusted money transfer provider, your transaction is safe and secure.

Cons

Fees. Most money transfer providers have applicable fees that could make their services costly.

Bottom line

Receiving money from overseas doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. By comparing your options, you can make sure you aren’t paying too much in fees or losing money to a poor exchange rate. Before making a final decision, learn more about how to save money when sending and receiving money from overseas.

Thank you for your feedback!

Alison Banney

Alison Banney is the banking and investments editor at Finder. She has written about finance for over six years, with her work featured on sites including Yahoo Finance, Money Magazine and Dynamic Business. She has previously worked at Westpac, and has written for several other major banks including BCU, Greater Bank and Gateway Credit Union. Alison has a Bachelor of Communications from Newcastle University, with a double major in Journalism and Public Relations. She has ASIC RG146 compliance certificates for Financial Advice, Securities and Managed Investments and Superannuation. Outside of Finder, you’ll likely find her somewhere near the ocean.

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20 Responses

LeonieAugust 10, 2016

Hi I am currently working in California for 3months my pay will go into a western union acct can someone in Australia open an acct for me? And can I then transfer it to a.n.z. or commonwealth acct? As I don’t want to fly home with a bit of cash
Thanks

finder Customer Care

ShirleyAugust 11, 2016Staff

Hi Leonie,

Thanks for your question.

You can set it up so someone in Australia can pick up the cash for you at a Western Union kiosk and then they can deposit it into your bank for you.

Alternatively, you may want to consider an international money transfer service and have the funds directly deposited into your bank account here in Australia, this eliminates the need for someone to pick up the cash.

I hope this has helped.

smngrffthJune 14, 2016

Hi. Do you have a physical office in Thailand ?

finder Customer Care

ShirleyJune 14, 2016Staff

Hi smngrffth,

Thanks for your question.

Since finder.com is an Australian third party comparison service, we don’t have any offices in Thailand.

Western Union has a number of kiosks available in Thailand.

michaelMay 20, 2016

Hi i am moving back to melbourne, and i will have a large sum of money transfering back to australia(over a mil AUD). so i dont trust these small transfer bank. So which is the best rate for bank? st george, westpac, commonwealth, or anz? thanks.

finder Customer Care

ShirleyMay 25, 2016Staff

Hi Michael,

Thanks for your question.

Please note that the international money transfer services that we list are regulated in Australia by ASIC under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing Act 2006 and is regulated by the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre ‘AUSTRAC’.

The exchange rates will depend on the currency you’re transferring from, so we’re unable to tell you immediately which bank is “best”. Please compare St.George rates here, Westpac rates here, CBA rates here and ANZ rates.

ColinMarch 28, 2016

Hi,
In order to receive funds from my U.S. e-trade account into australia, e-trade in the US can only transfer funds to a bank account that is in my name. The issue with this is that aussie banks offer poor exchange rates when receiving these funds.

How can I receive funds from e-trade at more competitive exchange rates?

Regards
Colin

finder Customer Care

AdrianMarch 29, 2016Staff

Hi Colin,

Thanks for your question.

If you want to earn a more competitive exchange rate, you could use a cash account that earns a competitive interest rate. The rate is more competitive depending on the amount you wish to deposit. Visit https://invest.etrade.com.au/InvestmentProducts/Cash/Default.aspx to find out more.

I hope this helps,
Harry

TheresaFebruary 15, 2016

An American friend is about to send me some money. She will send US dollars, can I receive it in US dollars as we are about to go overseas and will need US dollars.

finder Customer Care

ShirleyFebruary 16, 2016Staff

Hi Theresa,

Thanks for your question.

If your American friend sends money to your Australian bank account, the funds will automatically exchange to AUD as your bank account can only hold AUD.

You may want to consider a multi-currency account – or asking your friend to hold the money in USD cash.

Hope this helps.

Receiving a money transfer from overseas

The ins and outs of receiving money from an overseas sender.

In this guide

Compare

Reviews

Send money to

Exchange rates

Banks

Guides

What is the best way to receive money from overseas?

Compare international money transfer companies to receive money

How to receive money using our comparison tool

Compare up to 4 providers

Bank information needed when receiving money from overseas

How does receiving money from overseas work?

What type of money transfer should I use to receive money?

How do I compare international money transfer services when receiving money?

Do I have to pay taxes when receiving money from overseas?

What are the pros and cons of receiving money from an international money transfer service, rather than a bank?

Pros

Cons

Bottom line

Alison Banney

More guides on Finder

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