Want to transfer money abroad? There are several ways to do this. You can, of course, transfer money via your bank, but Western Union can make it even easier for you.
This article explains how you can transfer money abroad, including the information required and the costs involved, and how Western Union offers a fast and reliable option for international transfers. We also answer some frequently asked questions on this topic.
Transferring Money to a Foreign Bank Account
Want to transfer money to a foreign bank account? You’ll need the recipient’s IBAN number and the BIC code to do this. The IBAN number ensures that the money reaches the right bank account and the BIC code identifies the bank. This information is important for ensuring that the transaction is secure and correct and your money arrives quickly and without any problems.
You should therefore always make sure that you have the recipient’s BIC code and IBAN number to hand if you want to transfer money abroad. This will make transferring money abroad easy and secure. Need an even faster and easier way to transfer money to a foreign bank account? Download the Western Union app.
Costs of Transferring Money Abroad
The costs of transferring money abroad vary depending on which method you use and where you are sending the money. For example, you can transfer money abroad via SEPA bank transfers, non-SEPA bank transfers, online platforms or money transfer services such as Western Union.
Within or Outside of Europe
Within Europe (SEPA), transfers are often free of charge if certain conditions are met. For payments outside of the SEPA region or in other currencies, banks usually charge fees. For international transfers, you can choose from transfer fee options such as OUR (you pay all charges) or SHA (you share the charges with the recipient).
| Bank | OUR costs | SHA costs |
| ABN AMRO | €9 + country-specific fee | Shared with recipient |
| ASN Bank | 0.25% (min. €15, max. €165) | 0.1% (min. €5, max. €50) |
| ING | €6 + country-specific fee | Shared with recipient |
| Knab | €15 + 0.1% currency conversion fee | Shared with recipient |
| Rabobank | €12 + 0.1% (min. €8, max. €35) | Shared with recipient |
| Triodos Bank | 0.1% (min. €7.50, max. €75) + €17.50 | 0.1% (min. €7.50, max. €75) |
(Source: Consumetenbond (the Dutch consumer association))
Looking for a cheap way to transfer money abroad? Open a Western Union account and enjoy cheap and reliable overseas transfers.
Transfer Money Abroad Immediately
Want to transfer money abroad immediately? With Western Union the process is quick, easy and reliable. Register for an account online or download the Western Union app. Enter the recipient’s details, select a payment method and confirm the transaction. Western Union guarantees that your money is sent quickly and securely.
Frequently Asked Questions about Transferring Money Abroad
- How Can I Transfer Money Abroad?
You can transfer money abroad through your bank, online platforms or money transfer services such as Western Union. With Western Union you can transfer money both online and in person. The process is simple: create an account, enter the recipient’s details, select a payment method and confirm the transaction. Learn more about sending money abroad with Western Union.
- How Much Does it Cost to Transfer Money Abroad?
The costs of transferring money abroad vary. Banks often charge fixed fees and a percentage of the amount being sent. Western Union applies different rates depending on the speed and destination of the transfer. See our rates and exchange rates in real time for more details.
- How Long Does it Take to Send Money Abroad?
Transferring money abroad via a bank may take several days, depending on the destination for the money and the bank. With the Western Union ‘Money in Minutes’ service, the money you send can be ready for collection as cash or in a Mobile Wallet within minutes. Transfers to a bank account usually take one to two days. You can track your transfer with your unique tracking number, or MTCN.
