Transferring money between countries can be complicated and expensive, but there are many methods and services that can make it easier. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide to the best transfer methods, costs and turnaround times for international transfers, and a comparison of exchange rates at different banks.
Best transfer methods and services
TransferWise (now Wise):
- Popular service offering fast and cheap international transfers with favourable exchange rates.
- Transparent fees and transfer status tracking.
Revolut:
- Mobile app for free and fast international transfers in different currencies.
- In addition, it offers a debit card and currency exchange at favourable rates.
PayPal:
- Commonly used service for sending money internationally. Fast and convenient, but often with higher fees and less favourable exchange rates.
Western Union:
- Global network for instant money transfers, but with higher costs.
- Possibility to pick up cash at outlets around the world.
SWIFT bank transfers:
- Traditional way of sending money abroad via banks.
- Secure, but usually more expensive and slower compared to online services.
Costs and processing times for international transfers
TransferWise (Wise):
- Costs: Low, depending on the amount and currency of the transfer. Transparent charges displayed before the transaction is processed.
- Time: Usually 1-2 working days.
Revolut:
- Costs: Free transfers within monthly limits, outside limits low fees.
- Time: Immediate for other Revolut users, 1-3 working days for bank transfers.
PayPal:
- Costs: Higher fees for international transfers (approximately 5% of the transfer amount).
- Time: Immediate for transfers to other PayPal users, up to 3-5 working days for withdrawals to a bank account.
Western Union:
- Costs: High fees, depending on amount and country of recipient.
- Time: Immediate to several hours.
SWIFT bank transfers:
- Costs: Usually higher (from USD 20 to USD 50 or more, depending on the bank).
- Time: 2-5 working days.
Comparison of exchange rates at different banks
Comparing exchange rates can significantly affect the cost of international transfers. Below you will find information on the rates offered by selected banks and transfer services.
Commercial banks (e.g. PKO BP, Santander, ING):
- Usually offer less favourable exchange rates compared to online services.
- Rates can vary from bank to bank and additional charges can be up to several percent of the exchange amount.
TransferWise (Wise):
- Offers rates close to market averages, which is usually more favourable than at banks.
- Transparent fees and no hidden costs.
Revolut:
- Exchange rates close to market averages, particularly favourable within monthly limits.
- Exchange fees outside working hours and at weekends.
PayPal:
- Exchange rates usually less favourable, additional exchange fees can be up to several percent.
Western Union:
- Exchange rates can be less favourable, but the availability of instant cash transfers can be a big plus.
Choosing the right method to transfer money to and from Poland depends on a number of factors, such as cost, processing time and exchange rate. Online services such as TransferWise (Wise) and Revolut usually offer better conditions than traditional banks and PayPal. It is important to compare the options available and choose the one that best suits your needs.
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