Online money transfer companies offer a secure way to send a same-day money transfer overseas almost instantly – but a tighter time frame usually means higher fees.
To make comparing even easier we came up with the Finder Score. Fees, features and customer service across the most popular international money transfer services are all weighted and scaled to produce a score out of 10. The higher the score the better the service – simple.
Read the full methodologyA same-day money transfer allows you to send funds abroad that will arrive with your beneficiary within 24 hours. It’s the same as any other overseas money transfer, but quicker. Some providers can even offer instant transfers.
However, fast transfers usually cost more than regular transfers thanks to high fees and poorer exchange rates.
There are three main ways to transfer money overseas on the same day:
Companies like OFX and CurrencyTransfer specialise in foreign currencies, making them some of the most cost-effective transfers. These services are found online and typically have no physical offices.
You’ll need to visit a provider’s site and initiate the transfer online using a debit card, credit card or bank account.
MoneyGram, Western Union and WorldRemit offer cash pickups. Your money can typically be available for pickup within 15 minutes at hundreds of thousands of locations around the world.
To use this option, visit your nearest agent location to start your transfer. The funds can then be collected by your recipient at a branch in their country of residence.
Major UK banks make it possible to send a same-day money transfer abroad. However, while transfers within 24 hours are possible to select countries and currencies, funds sent to other destinations could take as long as five days to arrive.
Visit your local bank branch or the bank’s website to initiate a transfer – but just be sure to check the processing time.
Most providers either charge a set fee or a percentage of your transaction. Not all will charge an extra fee for expedited same-day service. For example, OFX and Citibank don’t charge rush fees for same-day transfers.
Yes. You can use your established PayPal account to send personal payments in minutes to friends and family abroad.
If you don’t have a PayPal account, you can set one up in minutes if you have online access to your bank statements. This is because PayPal deposits small amounts into your account, and you’re required to verify your account based on the deposits.
You’ll typically receive a weaker exchange rate and pay higher transfer fees with a same-day money transfer, so carefully review the full details of your transfer before you hand over any money. Be aware that some transfer providers – for example, your bank – will not always be able to offer a same-day transfer to your destinations.
Using a transfer provider that offers cash pickup is the most reliable way to send a same-day money transfer. But if you have a little extra time, you may be able to get a better deal by sending a bank-to-bank transfer. Be sure to compare money transfer services to find out more about which provider will work best for you.
The experts at Finder compare international money transfer services and rank them on key areas to help you make your choice.
Lloyds Bank provides a range of options for sending money overseas to friends and family. See exchange rates, fees and services here and compare your options.
Barclays offers many an option when it comes to sending money overseas. See exchange rates and fees here, and compare your options.
Looking to transfer a big sum of money? Read our guide and compare the options based on fees, exchange rates, security and simplicity.
Check for FCA approval from your international money transfer provider and make sure your money is safe during transfer from the UK.
To find the best rate for your next money transfer, check out our comparison of the fees, exchange rates and transfer speeds of Western Union and MoneyGram.
The e-commerce site Skrill offers easy money transfers for its users. But watch out for high conversion rates.
How do you know if your international money transfer made it safely? Learn how to track or cancel, and find out what your rights are when it comes to sending money.
Learn about how Wise alternatives can help you send more money for less.
Currencies Direct offers powerful support with international money transfer and exchange tools and services.