Send money to Zimbabwe with WorldRemit
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Send money to Zimbabwe
Here’s how you can send money quickly, simply and affordably from the US to Zimbabwe.
If you need to send money to a loved one in Zimbabwe, you might find yourself confused as to what type of currency to send since the Zimbabwean dollar was disbanded in 2009. Since then, a number of currencies can be used as legal tender in Zimbabwe. This includes the US dollar, which is the official currency for all government transactions in the country.
Compare money transfer services to Zimbabwe
Our table lets you compare the services you can use to send money abroad. Compare services on transfer speeds and fees, then click Go to site when you're ready to send.
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Best ways to send money to Zimbabwe
Online money transfer providers typically offer the strongest exchange rates and lowest fees on money transfers to Zimbabwe. Some offer cash pickup in as little as a few minutes, while others transfer to bank accounts.
1. Digital money transfer services
Companies like XE and Wise specialize in foreign currencies, making them some of the most cost-effective ways to send money to Zimbabwe. Most offer transfers directly to your recipient's bank account in Zimbabwe, often in as little as a day or two.- Why? Digital money transfer services are cheaper because they exist online and don't have as many employees or physical locations.
2. Cash transfers
Services like Remitly and WorldRemit allow you to transfer cash for pickup at a local branch in Zimbabwe— often in 15 minutes. While it's a fast way to send money, you'll pay for the convenience in weak exchange rates and high fees.- Why? Picking up cash is more expensive because more people are involved.
3. Banks
The US dollar may be offered by your bank, but beware of high fees and wide margins on the exchange rate. Compare bank transfers to digital services and other options before sending a wire transfer to Zimbabwe.- Why? Banks offer money transfers as a secondary service so don't strive to offer competitive prices.
Let's crunch the numbers: Sending $1,000 to Zimbabwe
Let's say you need to send $1,000 to family in Zimbabwe. Here's what you might face as far as fees and exchange rates using today's rate of 1 USD = 1.000 USD.| Digital money transfer service | Cash transfer | Bank transfer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fee | $4 | $4 | $25 + additional correspondent bank fees |
| Exchange rate | 1 USD = 0.997 USD | 1 USD = 0.995 USD | 1 USD = 0.950 USD |
| Transfer speed | 1-2 days | Minutes | 2-5 days |
| Amount received | USD$993 | USD$991 | USD$926 |
| Verdict |
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The bank option ends up being the slowest and gets the smallest amount of money to your recipient in Zimbabwe. A digital transfer sends the most, which is USD$67 more than the bank. For speed, a cash transfer can typically have your transfer to Zimbabwe in as little as 15 minutes. Make sure there's a cash pickup location near your recipient before sending.
How to send money to Zimbabwe online
Sign up and send money to Zimbabwe with a digital money transfer specialist in four steps:
- Sign up for a free account. Compare and pick a provider before signing up for a free online account using your contact information, proof of ID and preferred payment method.
- Provide transfer details. Submit your recipient's contact information and pick a delivery method. If transferring to a bank, you'll need their bank account details in Zimbabwe.
- Confirm transfer details. Double-check your payment method, expected fees and destination.
- Save your receipt. Record your receipt's confirmation number to track the progress of your transfer to Zimbabwe. Some money transfer providers send a text or email when your transfer is complete.
Get the most out of your money transfer to Zimbabwe
Weigh costs and fees against convenience to best compare money transfer providers that send to Zimbabwe. Consider:
- Transfer limits. How much you can send varies by company, and different amounts can attract higher or lower fees. Shop around for the best deal on the amount of US dollars you're sending to Zimbabwe.
- Turnaround. Transferring money through a local bank can take a business week or longer. If you need the funds delivered quickly, seek out a digital specialist that offers instant transfers to Zimbabwe.
- Sending limits. Comparing prices for one large transfer instead of many small transfers is typically easier, so picking the service you use based on how much you're sending is a valid strategy for saving money.
- Transfer methods. Whether you want money sent to a bank account in Zimbabwe or picked up as cash at a local agent, narrow down a company that matches your preferred delivery method.
How to send money to Zimbabwe without a bank account
If you don't have a bank account, look for a local company that supports storefronts for cash payments. These services include agent locations in other countries that allow your recipient to pick up US dollars without a bank account.Emergency cash transfer
When urgency trumps cost to get your money to Zimbabwe quickly, look for money transfer companies that support cash pickup in minutes. You can pay with a credit or debit card for fast pickup, but fees are higher than other methods.What to watch out for
Sending money to relatives or family members in Zimbabwe may be subject to taxes on the money transfer and certain documents may be required.
Taxes on transfers to Zimbabwe
In general, any large transfers being sent from the US to Zimbabwe should be filed with the IRS to avoid any penalties.
Required information
Receiving money in Zimbabwe:
- Transfer confirmation details like a transfer number, an MTCN, a reference number or a tracking number, depending on the company.
- Government-issued ID like a passport or similar official ID may be required to pick up your transfer.
- Sender's information. Take along your sender's full name, the sending country and their address, if known.
Sending to Zimbabwe from the US:
- Proof of identification like a government-issued ID or your SSN number.
- Recipient information like their name, address and bank account information in Zimbabwe.
Bottom line
Sending your hard-earned money to Zimbabwe shouldn't cost a fortune. Compare money transfer companies that specialize in foreign transactions for the strongest rates, lowest fees and flexible delivery. For transfers to other countries, rely on our country-specific guides the next time you need to make a transfer.