How to send money to Europe from Australia

By   |   Verified by David Boyd   |   Updated 14 Nov 2022

Send Money AUD to Euro (Eurozone)

Are you looking for the best way to send money from Australia to a family member, friend, or business in Europe?

Recipients will get more euros if you send money to Europe from Australia with an online international money transfer service because they offer more competitive exchange rates and cheaper transfer fees.

Need to transfer money to Europe from Australia?

Best ways to send money to Europe

Wise Money Transfer

On website

Highlights

  • Wise Borderless multi-currency receiving accounts. This gives you access to a digital currency wallet that you can hold and transact in over 50 currencies.
  • Borderless Debit Card. The FX optimised debit card is attached to your Wise Borderless account that can be used to withdraw or pay for purchases in foreign currency within or outside Australia.
  • Android and Apple Apps. Indulge convenience by transacting thru the Wise App anytime and anywhere!
  • Fund options. Loads of options to fund your Wise account including transfer from Debit and credit cards, or thru a local bank transfer. Quick and easy!

Pros

  • Low and competitive fees.
  • Easy to understand fee structure.
  • Easy to use website and mobile apps.
  • High transfer limit.

Cons

  • Limited currencies and destination countries compared with some competitors.
  • Can only send funds to the recipient's bank account.
Send

On website

Send

Highlights

  • 4.9 star rating on Trust Pilot
  • Competitive Exchange Rates for Both Small and Large Transfers - Up To x5 Cheaper Than Banks
  • Personal Account Manager - Large Transfers Specialists
  • Australian Company, Australian Headquarters, and a Highly Professional Australian Team

Pros

  • No transfer transaction fee and no account-keeping fees.
  • Competitive foreign exchange margin compared to banks.
  • Wide range of currencies and destination countries.
  • Suitable for businesses as well as individuals.

Cons

  • Bank account is the only delivery method.
  • Minimum transfer amount of $250.
  • Limited funding methods.
Instarem

On website

Instarem

Highlights

  • Use the promo code FINTY and get AUD $30 bonus on your first transfer. Terms and Conditions apply.
  • Send money and earn points.
  • Enjoy low fees, and great FX rates. No hidden charges.
  • Transfer money to 55+ countries.

Pros

  • Transfer fees are between 0.25% to 1%.
  • Earn loyalty points.
  • Dedicated customer support.
  • Mobile apps.

Cons

  • There is no cash pick-up option.

Compare more money transfer services before you send money to Europe.

First time sending?

How to send money to Europe from Australia

There are a few reasons money transfer services are more convenient than traditional banks when sending money to Europe from Australia. First, they are fast — you can usually expect the funds to be received within a few days. Secondly, they tend to be more affordable, with lower fees and better exchange rates. Finally, they are typically much easier to use, with an intuitive online platform that makes it simple to set up and track your transfers.

  1. Choose a money transfer service. On this page, you can find reputable money transfer services that can transfer money to Europe.
  2. Open your account. You can open an account within a few minutes.
  3. Set up the transfer. Enter the recipient’s full name, address, bank account number (if that’s where you want funds delivered), and how much money to send. Depending on the service used, it may be possible to choose how funds will be delivered to the recipient, e.g. collected, mobile top-up, cash delivery, etc.
  4. Choose how to pay for the transfer. A bank transfer or debit card can be used with more services. Some accept credit cards. The funding method you choose will affect the time it takes to make the transfer and for the recipient to receive the money.
  5. Send the money and track the transfer. Once initiated, you’ll be able to track its progress to keep the recipient informed.

What are the fees and charges?

Costs for sending money to Europe from Australia

  • Service fee. The amount a money transfer service charges to send money to Europe varies depending on the amount of money being sent, how it will be delivered, and how the transaction is funded.
  • Collection fee. Charged when arranging for cash to be collected by the recipient.
  • Delivery fee. Charged when arranging for cash to be delivered to the recipient's address.
  • Cash advance fee. Charged by credit card issuers when a credit card is used to fund a money transfer. Interest applies separately.
  • Currency exchange rate. Significantly impacts how much your recipient will receive, especially when transferring a large amount of money.

Looking for other options?

Alternative ways to send money to Europe from Australia

There are several alternative methods for sending money to Europe if you do not want to use an online money transfer service.

  • Bank transfer. The easiest option if you don't want to open any new accounts. However, it is also the most expensive option, as banks typically charge high fees and offer poor exchange rates.
  • Crypto. If you and the recipient already have crypto wallets set up, sending crypto can be a very cheap and fast option. The recipient can hold funds in their wallet or withdraw to a bank account. Sending a stablecoin reduces the risk of losing money to price drops in the volatile crypto market.
  • Money orders. Buying a money order and sending it to the recipient is reliable, but on the whole, much slower than an online money transfer service.
  • Money transfer agents. Useful if you want to use cash for the transfer or if the recipient wants to collect cash. Popular with people who have no bank account.
  • Prepaid cards. Suitable for small amounts. Not suitable for large transfers due to limitations on how much can be loaded and withdrawn. ATM withdrawal fees may also apply.

Still not sure?

FAQs

How long does it take for money sent from Australia to arrive in Europe?

The time frame will depend on the method used to send the money. For example, a bank transfer can take a few days, while money sent with a money transfer service can arrive within minutes.

Can I send money to Europe if the recipient has no bank account?

Yes. You can still send money through a transfer service if the recipient has no bank account. The sender can configure the money transfer so the recipient can collect cash from a specific location, or a courier can deliver the cash. Alternatively, you could use a money order, send crypto, or even send a prepaid card.

Is it safe to send money to Europe from Australia?

Yes, sending money to Europe from Australia is safe when you use a reputable company. We only list established money transfer services on Finty.

Can I send a money order to Europe from Australia?

Yes, it is possible to purchase a money order in Australia and send it to Europe via postal mail or tracked courier. The recipient can then cash the money order at a bank, credit union, local post office, etc.

Can I use my credit card to send money to Europe from Australia?

Yes. You can fund a money transfer to Europe with a credit card. However, your credit card issuer may charge a cash advance fee since the transaction will most likely be classified as a cash equivalent. Additionally, the transaction will immediately incur interest at the cash advance rate.

Can I send cryptocurrency to Europe from Australia?

Yes, cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum can be sent to Europe from Australia. The recipient can then choose whether to sell the crypto for cash or use it to transact in stores and with people who accept it.