Compare International Money Transfers

Compare rates before you send money overseas

Average customer rating: 4.3/5

We don’t compare all international money transfer providers in the market. At times, certain providers or currencies might not be available. Learn more.

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Top 3 things to know about international money transfers

1

Don’t get stung by high fees

Different providers will charge varying transfer fees and commissions on their money transfer services. It’s important to shop around to make sure you’re not paying too much in fees.

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2

Get the features you need

Account loading options, timeframe flexibility and the option to make in-branch or phone transfers are all features you may decide you need – be sure to examine the feature offering of any provider you’re thinking of using.

3

Keep an eye on rates and compare your options

Foreign exchange rates change multiple times a day, every day. That means it’s important to keep an eye on the rates so you can send money at an optimal time. We can also help you compare a variety of international money transfer providers in seconds today!

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Based on 2,603 reviews
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Ratings as of 05/12/2023.

A guide to international money transfers

Updated February 25, 2024
Written by James Hurwood
Reviewed by Stephen Zeller

Expert tips for choosing the right international money transfer provider for you

Our General Manager of Money, Stephen Zeller, has some tips for choosing a great-value money transfer provider.

Stephen Zeller
General Manager – Money

Stay on top of rate changes

Exchange rates can fluctuate throughout the day, so it can pay to keep an eye on what time rates are more beneficial to you. Keep in mind that predicting exchange rate movements is considerably challenging, but taking the time to watch the markets can pay dividends.

Do your research when picking a provider

Exchanging currency or sending money internationally at a bricks-and-mortar bank can sometimes leave you with less money in your pocket compared to exchanging via an online money transfer service. As always, it pays to do your research when looking at an online comparison tool, such as our own international money transfer comparison tool.

Check that it’s safe

Before providing your private and sensitive information to an international money transfer site, make sure to check the company is a reputable provider with a secure website. Compare the Market only partners with licenced and reputable companies, giving you additional security when comparing options.

What is an international money transfer?

An international money transfer moves money electronically from your account in Australia to an overseas account. Common reasons you might do this include sending money to your own overseas account, to a family member or friend, or to make an international purchase.

You can send money overseas using one of several methods:

  • International money transfer. Set up an account (through a provider you find on our website, for example) and make an international payment online. This method is typically cheaper and has a shorter transfer time than the other options on this list.
  • Bank transfer. Use your existing bank account to transfer the funds to the destination country. While convenient, you may attract some significant fees and an unappealing exchange rate, depending on the bank.
  • International Money Order. Send an international cheque, which can be cashed in at the recipient’s bank of choice overseas. While safe and practical, it may have some higher costs associated with the send, as well as being slower than an electronic transfer.

How international money transfers work

What details do I need to transfer money internationally?

How long does an international money transfer take?

International money transfers can take from as little as a few hours to as long as several business days.

Can I transfer money if the recipient doesn’t have a bank account?

How much money can I transfer overseas?

How much do international money transfers cost?

What fees will I pay to transfer money overseas?

How can I get the best rate when transferring money overseas?

What is an exchange rate?

Meet our international money transfers expert, Stephen Zeller

Stephen has more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry and is an Allied Member of the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF). He helps to review and contribute to Compare the Market’s banking-relating content, to ensure it’s as helpful and empowering as possible for our readers.