Send Money by Bank Transfer Internationally

 
Trust Score
4.9
  • Fully Authorised and Regulated in the UK
  • Lower Staff Costs Rolled Over to the Client
  • Quick Onboarding Process and Highly Professional
More information +
Key Currency
  • Time to Open Account Up to 2 minutes
  • Sending Options Debit card
    Bank transfer
  • Receiving Options Bank account
  • Required Documents Photo ID
    Proof of address
Trustpilot logo 3,323 Reviews | Excellent
Trust Score
4.9
  • Tailored strategic solutions
  • Fee free international transfers
  • Forward rate fixing for up to 12 months
More information +
FC Global Payments
  • Time to Open Account Up to 2 minutes
  • Sending Options Debit card
    Bank transfer
  • Receiving Options Bank account
  • Required Documents Photo ID
    Proof of address
Trustpilot logo 109 Reviews | Excellent
Trust Score
4.9
  • Available 7 Days a Week
  • WhatsApp communication available
  • Winner of South West Business Awards, Employer of the Year
More information +
Regency FX
  • Time to Open Account Up to 2 minutes
  • Sending Options Debit card
    Bank transfer
  • Receiving Options Bank account
  • Required Documents Photo ID
    Proof of address
Trustpilot logo 405 Reviews | Excellent
Trust Score
4.8
  • No transfer fees and dedicated account manager
  • Multi-award winning service
  • Global presence with 25+ branches worldwide
More information +
Currencies Direct
  • Time to Open Account Up to 2 minutes
  • Sending Options Debit card
    Bank transfer
  • Receiving Options Bank account
  • Required Documents Photo ID
    Proof of address
Trustpilot logo 18,246 Reviews | Excellent
Trust Score
4.8
  • Excellent exchange rates with no fees
  • Transfer 24/7 over the phone, online or through the app
  • Dedicated account manager & rated excellent on Trustpilot
More information +
TorFX
  • Time to Open Account Up to 2 minutes
  • Sending Options Debit card
    Bank transfer
  • Receiving Options Bank account
  • Required Documents Photo ID
    Proof of address
Trustpilot logo 8,945 Reviews | Excellent
Trust Score
4.6
  • Fully FCA Authorised and Regulated
  • Send Money with your Personal Account manager or online
  • International Payments, Multi Currency Accounts, and more
More information +
Equals Money
  • Time to Open Account Up to 2 minutes
  • Sending Options Debit card
    Bank transfer
  • Receiving Options Bank account
  • Required Documents Photo ID
    Proof of address
Trustpilot logo 485 Reviews | Excellent
Trust Score
4.3
  • £0 wire and transfer fees
  • No transfer Limits
  • 50+ Currencies
More information +
OFX
  • Time to Open Account Up to 2 minutes
  • Sending Options Debit card
    Bank transfer
  • Receiving Options Bank account
  • Required Documents Photo ID
    Proof of address
Trustpilot logo 11,107 Reviews | Excellent
Trust Score
3.7
  • Preferential rates for Free Price Compare customers
  • Profession, award-winning service
  • Tailored solutions
More information +
Halo Financial
  • Time to Open Account Up to 2 minutes
  • Sending Options Debit card
    Bank transfer
  • Receiving Options Bank account
  • Required Documents Photo ID
    Proof of address
Trustpilot logo 7 Reviews | Average

Sending money abroad by bank transfer is one of the most common ways to make an international payment. Many people in the United Kingdom choose bank transfers because they are familiar, secure, and suitable for sending larger amounts of money overseas.

However, international bank transfers can vary significantly in cost, speed, and transparency. Fees, exchange rates, and intermediary charges can all affect how much your recipient receives. By comparing FCA-regulated money transfer providers, you can understand the true cost of international bank transfers and decide whether this method offers the best value for your needs.

What does it mean to send money by bank transfer internationally?

Sending money by bank transfer internationally means transferring funds directly from your UK bank account to a recipient in another country. This can be done through your bank or through a specialist international money transfer service that uses bank transfers as the payment method.

The recipient may receive the money through:

  • A direct bank deposit to their local bank account
  • A correspondent bank, depending on the destination
  • A local clearing system used by the provider

Bank transfers are often used for larger or less time-sensitive international payments.

Many people use online banking or a banking app to set up international bank transfers, either directly through their bank or via an FCA-regulated money transfer provider.

Why do people use bank transfers for international money transfers?

Bank transfers are a trusted and widely used method for sending money overseas.

People often choose international bank transfers because:

  • They are suitable for sending larger amounts
  • Funds move directly between bank accounts
  • They are commonly used for property, education, or family support payments
  • They are supported by most international money transfer services

For planned or high-value transfers, bank transfers can be a practical option.

Compare money transfer providers that support international bank transfers

Are bank transfers the cheapest way to send money internationally?

Bank transfers are not always the cheapest option for sending money internationally. While they are secure, costs can add up depending on how the transfer is processed.

International bank transfers may include:

  • Transfer fees charged by banks or providers
  • Exchange rate markups
  • Charges from intermediary or correspondent banks

Specialist money transfer providers often reduce these costs by using local payout routes and more competitive exchange rates. Taking time to compare money transfer rates helps you see whether a traditional bank transfer or an alternative provider offers better value.

Are bank transfers the cheapest way to send money internationally

How much does it cost to send money by bank transfer internationally?

The cost of sending money internationally by bank transfer depends on the provider, destination country, transfer amount, and delivery speed.

Provider type Typical Fees Exchange Rate Delivery Speed
High-street bank £10–£30 Lower than market rate 2–5 business days
Online transfer service £0–£10 Near market rate 1–3 business days
Specialist FX provider Low or £0 Competitive rate Same day to 2 days

Costs are usually shown in pounds sterling (GBP), but the recipient receives funds in their local or foreign currency. Currency conversion and transaction costs can vary, so it is important to check how much will be received after conversion.

See how fees and exchange rates affect international bank transfers

What affects the cost of international bank transfers?

Several factors influence how much an international bank transfer costs and how much your recipient receives.

Exchange rate margins

Some providers apply a margin to the exchange rate, which can reduce the final amount received.

Transfer fees

Banks and providers may charge flat fees or percentage-based fees for international transfers.

Intermediary banks

Some transfers pass through correspondent banks, which may deduct additional charges.

Transfer amount

Larger transfers often receive better exchange rates, making specialist providers more cost-effective.

Understanding these factors helps you choose the most suitable transfer option.

What information is needed to send money by bank transfer internationally?

To send money internationally by bank transfer, providers usually require specific payment and banking details.

You are typically asked for:

  • Your bank account payment details
  • The transfer amount
  • The recipient’s full name
  • Their bank account number

Depending on the destination, you may also need:

  • An IBAN
  • A SWIFT or BIC code
  • The recipient’s bank address

Some providers request personal details such as your email address or mobile number to confirm the transfer. Confirmation emails or SMS updates are often sent once the transfer is processed.

Check low-fee international bank transfer options

Is it safe to send money internationally by bank transfer?

International bank transfers can be safe when processed through FCA-regulated providers. Regulation helps ensure that providers follow strict security, safeguarding, and compliance standards.

Is it safe to send money internationally by bank transfer

Most FCA-regulated services offer:

  • Secure encryption to protect payment and personal information
  • Identity and anti-money laundering checks
  • Safeguarding of customer funds
  • Secure delivery through established banking networks

Using a regulated provider allows you to focus on cost and speed without compromising on security.

When might a bank transfer not be the best option?

While bank transfers are reliable, they are not always the most convenient or cost-effective choice.

Another payment method may be more suitable if:

  • You need an urgent transfer
  • You are sending a smaller amount
  • You want to avoid intermediary bank fees
  • You prefer a simpler setup

In these cases, debit card or other payment options may offer faster or cheaper alternatives.

Compare money transfer rates before sending by bank transfer

How do bank transfers compare to other international payment methods?

Bank transfer vs debit card

Bank transfers are often cheaper for larger amounts, while debit cards may be faster for urgent payments.

Bank transfer vs direct debit

Direct debit payments can be useful for regular transfers but may take longer to set up.

Bank transfer vs cash pickup

Cash pickup can be faster in some regions but may involve higher fees.

Comparing payment methods helps you choose the option that best fits your situation.

FAQs about sending money by bank transfer internationally

Yes, provided you use an FCA-regulated money transfer service that follows security and safeguarding rules.

They are often cheaper for larger amounts, but costs vary by provider and destination.

Most transfers take between one and five business days, depending on the provider and destination.

Some costs may be deducted by intermediary banks or included in the exchange rate. Comparing providers helps identify the total cost.

Yes, most UK bank accounts support international transfers, but fees and exchange rates may differ from specialist providers.

Limits vary by provider, destination, and regulatory requirements.

Many providers offer tracking or status updates via email or online accounts.

Yes, UK banks offer international bank transfers, but these may involve higher fees or less competitive exchange rates compared to specialist money transfer providers.

SWIFT transfers are used for international bank transfers worldwide and typically involve sending money between banks in different countries using SWIFT or BIC codes. SEPA transfers are used for euro payments within the SEPA region and are designed for faster, lower-cost transfers in euros. The type of transfer available depends on the destination country, currency, and banking system used by the provider.

If an international bank transfer is delayed or does not arrive as expected, you should first check the transfer details provided, such as the recipient’s bank information and reference numbers. Most providers offer tracking or status updates via email or online accounts. If the issue persists, contacting the provider’s support team can help identify whether the delay is due to banking checks, time zones, or intermediary processing.

There is no single bank that consistently offers the cheapest fees for international bank transfers. Costs vary depending on the destination country, currency, total amount sent, and how each bank applies transfer fees and foreign exchange rate markups. In many cases, comparing FCA-regulated money transfer providers alongside banks makes it easier to see the true cost of an international transfer and identify better-value options.

More on Money Transfer

Page last updated on: 30/01/2026

Page reviewed by: Andrea Troy

4000+ reviews