How to send money to Europe from the UK

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

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

There are a few reasons money transfer services are more convenient than traditional banks when sending money to Europe from the UK. 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.

• 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.

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.

How long does it take for money sent from the UK 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 the UK?

Yes, sending money to Europe from the UK 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 the UK?

Yes, it is possible to purchase a money order in the UK 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 the UK?

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 the UK?

Yes, cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum can be sent to Europe from the UK. 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.