Disclaimer: Exchange rates change often. Confirm the total cost with the provider before transferring money.
How to send money to Israel
Let us help you find a quick, easy and affordable way to send money to Israel.
The Israeli shekel is frequently traded through international markets, which means you have quite a few options when you want to send money to someone living or travelling in Israel. By comparing transfer fees, exchange rates and processing time, you can find a good deal that won’t break the bank. Just be sure to take your time and keep your options open.
Compare transfer options for sending money to Israel
How do international money transfers work?
International money transfers allow you to send money to a recipient in Israel by providing money to a bank or independent money transfer company, which then converts your Hong Kong dollars to Israeli shekels. This can be done in person, over the phone, through a mobile app or online, and you can use cash, a credit card or transfer funds from your bank account. Depending on the provider, your recipient can either pick up the cash in person or have it deposited into their bank account.
Banks versus money transfer companies/services
Most major banks in Hong Kong can conduct transfers between Hong Kong and Israel, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. You’ll generally be charged higher fees and be offered a lower exchange rate when you opt for a bank transfer.
Often, you can get a better deal if you use the services of a specialist money transfer company. Instead of offering a wide range of financial products and services as banks do, money transfer companies focus entirely on moving money internationally. They offer lower fees and better exchange rates than banks, and many allow the transactions to be quickly and conveniently made online.
What are my transfer methods?
- Bank transfers. You can send funds from your bank account to the account of your recipient in Israel.
- Online money transfer providers. Companies like CurrencyFair allow fast and affordable online transfers from Hong Kong to Israel.
- Money transfer companies with cash pick-up options. Companies like Western Union and MoneyGram allow you to send funds overseas that can be picked up from thousands of agent locations across Israel.
- Cheques. Another option is to get an international cheque from your bank and send it overseas.
Foreign exchange rates explained
Exchange rate is used to determine how much a currency is worth when converted to a different currency. Most currencies are flexible, so they won’t be worth the same amount day-to-day or month-to-month. If you want a good deal, you’ll have to keep an eye out for a good rate.How to send money to Israel
While the exact transfer method will differ depending on the provider you choose, these are the basic steps you’ll need to follow to send money to Israel:
- Check out your options on the money transfer table.
- Click Go to site when you’ve found a suitable option.
- Register with the provider.
- Supply your information and your recipient’s information.
- Pay for your transfer.
- Save your tracking number to follow up on your transfer.
Emergency transfers to Israel
Emergency transfers to Israel are possible, and because the Israeli shekel is so widely traded, you may even be able to send money to your recipient within a few hours without having to pay high fees. However, you’ll still want to be careful. Not every company offers quick speed, low fees and good exchange rates. Compare your options before committing to be sure you’re choosing the right provider for your needs.
Tips for picking up cash in Israel
Exercise a high degree of caution when picking up cash. Keep your money hidden, avoid any questionable parts of town and deposit the cash you pick up into your bank account as soon as possible. You may also want to bring a friend along to provide an extra set of eyes, especially if you’re picking up a sizeable amount of shekels.
Bottom line
Israel has one of the most widely-traded currencies out there. You’ll have access to plenty of options with low fees and good exchange rates, which means you’ll have to take extra care to be sure you’re going with a provider that really caters to your needs. And check out our guide to money transfers to get an idea on the general process before you start making transfers.
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