Money Transfers In India 2024

Money transfers in India are used primarily to move funds between financial accounts. Money transfers can be in a India financial services company or bank in or outside India.

Money transfers in India can include electronic bank transfers, wire transfers, India money transfer services, and recently cryptocurrency transfers in India.

Money transfers in India can be used for a variety of purposes, such as paying bills in India, sending money to family members living in or visiting India, or making international payments to and from India.

Some money transfers are free in India, others involve fees or INR exchange rates, so it's always best to check with your Indian bank or money transfer service in India for their specific fees, transfer timeframes, and regulations before initiating a money transfer in India.

Money transfers in India have come a long way in the last ten years. In the past, transferring Indian INR money was a complicated and time-consuming process that involved physically transporting INR coins or written documents that represented Indian money. Today, INR money in India can be transferred instantly and securely through various electronic channels, such as online banking and even money transfer mobile apps available in India.

In this article, we will take a look at the history of money transfers in India, as well as the current state of the industry for India money transfers and the various options available for transferring money within India in multiple currencies not just the INR.

Money Transfers In India 2024 Table of Contents

Money Transfers In India Compared

  1. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative XE Money Transfer Visit XE Money Transfer

    Used By: 280000000
    Currencies Available: 76
    Transfer Fees: none
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, credit card, debit card
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat:
    Min Transfer: US$1.00
    Max Transfer: US$500,000.00 (or equivalent)
    Year Founded: 1993

  2. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Wise Multi-Currency Account Visit Wise Multi-Currency Account

    Used By: 11000000
    Currencies Available: 54
    Transfer Fees: 0.5%-1%
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit card, credit card, SOFORT transfer
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat:
    Min Transfer: 1 USD
    Max Transfer: 1000000 USD/transaction/day (personal), 3000000 USD/transaction/day (business)
    Year Founded: 2011

  3. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Remitly Visit Remitly

    Used By: 3000000
    Currencies Available: 63
    Transfer Fees: 0-3.99$
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit card
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat:
    Min Transfer: US$1.00
    Max Transfer: US$20,000.00
    Year Founded: 2011

  4. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Wise Business Visit Wise Business

    Used By: 11000000
    Currencies Available: 55
    Transfer Fees: 0.5%-1%
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit card, credit card, SOFORT transfer
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat:
    Min Transfer: 1 USD
    Max Transfer: 1000000 USD/transaction/day (personal), 3000000 USD/transaction/day (business)
    Year Founded: 2011

  5. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Wise Visit Wise

    Used By: 11000000
    Currencies Available: 54
    Transfer Fees: 0.5%-1%
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit card, credit card, SOFORT transfer
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat:
    Min Transfer: US$1.00
    Max Transfer: US$1,000,000 (varies based on currency)
    Year Founded: 2011

  6. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative CurrencyFair Visit CurrencyFair

    Used By: 150,000
    Currencies Available: 17
    Transfer Fees: 0.45%
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit card
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: £5.00 (or equivalent)
    Max Transfer: £10,000,000.00 (or equivalent)
    Year Founded: 2009

  7. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative InstaReM Visit InstaReM

    Used By: 130000000
    Currencies Available: 11
    Transfer Fees: 0%-1%
    Payment Methods: bank transfer, POLi payment (Australia), debit card (EU residents), ACH Pull (US residents), FPX (Malaysian residents)
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: $1 (minimum sending amounts could differ based on certain currency pairs)
    Max Transfer: No limit (different countries have regulatory limits on outward and inward flow of remittances originating from or to the country)
    Year Founded: 2014

  8. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative MoneyGram US Visit MoneyGram US

    Used By: 150000000
    Currencies Available: 46
    Transfer Fees: 0-1.99$
    Payment Methods: pay by card or directly from your bank account
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat:
    Min Transfer: none
    Max Transfer: 3000 USD
    Year Founded: 1940

  9. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Xoom Visit Xoom

    Used By: 250000000
    Currencies Available: 4
    Transfer Fees: 0$-40$
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit/credit card, PayPal balance
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: US$10.00
    Max Transfer: 2999 USD/day, 6000 USD/month, 9999 USD/3 months
    Year Founded: 2001

  10. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Skrill Visit Skrill

    Used By: 120,000
    Currencies Available: 33
    Transfer Fees: none
    Payment Methods: Cash, bank transfer, debit card, credit card, e-wallet, cryptocurrency (depending on country)
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: US$1.00 (varies based on certain currencies)
    Max Transfer: US$2,500.00 / day (weekly and monthly limites also apply)
    Year Founded: 2001

  11. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Scotiabank Visit Scotiabank

    Used By: 25,000,000
    Currencies Available: 23
    Transfer Fees: none
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit card, credit card, apple pay, google pay, Scotiabank Saddletone gift cards
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: none
    Max Transfer: 10000 USD
    Year Founded: 1832

  12. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative OFX Visit OFX

    Used By: 1000000
    Currencies Available: 54
    Transfer Fees: 15 AUD below 10k AUD
    Payment Methods: ETF, BPAY (Australia), Direct debits
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: 1000 USD
    Max Transfer: none
    Year Founded: 1998

  13. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Credit Suisse Visit Credit Suisse

    Used By: 1000000
    Currencies Available: 1
    Transfer Fees: none
    Payment Methods: eBill, QR-bill, standing orders, payment orders, online & mobile banking, direct debit, multi-payment orders, bank transfer, debit card, credit card
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: none
    Max Transfer: none
    Year Founded: 1856

  14. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Western Union Visit Western Union

    Used By: 15000000
    Currencies Available: 38
    Transfer Fees: up to 3%
    Payment Methods: Cash, bank transfer, debit card, credit card (varies from country)
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat:
    Min Transfer: $1.00
    Max Transfer: $10,000.00 (varies)
    Year Founded: 1851

  15. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative TransferGo Visit TransferGo

    Used By: 2,500,000
    Currencies Available: 39
    Transfer Fees: 0.5%-1.5%
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit card, credit card
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: 1.5 GBP
    Max Transfer: 1000000 GBP
    Year Founded: 2012

  16. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Moneycorp Visit Moneycorp

    Used By: 15000000
    Currencies Available: 161
    Transfer Fees: none
    Payment Methods: debit card via our online platform or a wire transfer, cash
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat:
    Min Transfer: 50 USD/GBP/EUR
    Max Transfer: none
    Year Founded: 1962

  17. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Currencies Direct Visit Currencies Direct

    Used By: 325,000
    Currencies Available: 22
    Transfer Fees: none
    Payment Methods: Bank transfer, debit card
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: none
    Max Transfer: 25000 GBP
    Year Founded: 1995

  18. Visit XE Money Transfer alternative Neteller Visit Neteller

    Used By: 500000
    Currencies Available: 28
    Transfer Fees: none
    Payment Methods: online banking account, debit, and credit card
    iOS App : yes, Android App : yes

    LiveChat: yes
    Min Transfer: none
    Max Transfer: up to 50000 USD/transaction
    Year Founded: 1996

Who Uses Money Transfer Services In India

Money transfer services in India are used by a wide range of Indian individuals and India businesses for various purposes, including

  • Individuals sending money to family members or friends in India and other countries
  • International students in India sending money to their families back home
  • Immigrants in India sending money to their home countries
  • India Businesses making payments to suppliers or contractors in other countries or vice versa
  • Freelancers and gig workers in India receiving payments from clients in other countries

Why use money transfer services in India

Money transfer services in India provide a convenient and efficient way to send money in INR or other currencies to people or businesses in or outside India. Some reasons why people use money transfer services to send and receive money in India include:

  • To send INR money quickly and easily to family members or friends in or outside India
  • To make payments to suppliers or contractors in India or other countries
  • To receive payments from clients or customers using money transfers in India
  • To take advantage of favorable INR exchange rates or lower fees than traditional Indian banks
  • To send money to Indian people or businesses that may not have access to traditional banking services to and from India

Benefits Of Money Transfers Services In India

Money transfer services in India offer several benefits over traditional Indian banking methods for sending money to other countries, which include:

  • India Money Services Are Convenient: Money transfer services in India can be accessed online or through mobile apps, making it easy to send money in INR or other currencies from anywhere at any time in India.
  • Money Transfers In India Are Fast: Many money transfer services in India offer fast and reliable money transfer options to international and India recipients, with some INR transactions taking place in just a matter of minutes in some cases in India.
  • Competitive INR exchange rates and low fees: Some money transfer services in India offer more favorable INR exchange rates and lower fees than traditional Indian banks, which can result in more INR money reaching the intended recipient from your India money transfer.
  • India Money Transfer Security: Money transfer services in India use advanced security measures to protect your personal and financial information in India and to ensure that your INR money reaches the intended recipient safely.
  • Wide reach of India Money services: Money transfer services in India have worldwide reach, allowing you to send money in INR or other currencies to people or businesses in many countries around the world, not just India.

Disadvantages Of Money Transfer Services In India

While money transfer services in India offer many benefits, they also have some drawbacks and disadvantages when transferring or sending money in India, which include:

  • Limited accessibility in India: Some India money transfer services may not be available in certain countries or regions, which can make it difficult to send money to people or businesses in those areas when in India.
  • INR exchange rate fluctuations: The exchange rate for the INR currency can fluctuate, which can affect the amount of INR money that the recipient receives. Some money transfer services in India may also offer different INR exchange rates for different types of transactions available in India.
  • Hidden fees with some India money transfer services: Some money transfer services in India may charge additional fees, such as INR transfer fees, INR currency conversion fees, or India or international receiving fees, which can add up and decrease the amount of INR money that the recipient receives.
  • Limited options for receiving money in India: Some money transfer services in India may only allow recipients to receive money through certain methods due to Indian financial regulation and anti-money laundering laws in India.
  • Security concerns when sending money in India: While most money transfer services in India use advanced security measures to protect your personal and financial information, there is always a risk of fraud or identity theft when sending money online in India.

Money Transfer Services Vs. Bank Transfers In India

In summary, a India bank transfer is primarily used to transfer money between Indian and international bank accounts while the many 3rd party money transfer services in India are often used to transfer money in INR or other currencies to people or businesses in India or other countries.

A India bank transfer and a money transfer service in India are both ways to move money electronically, but they work in slightly different ways for India senders and receivers.

A bank transfer in India is a way to move money between bank accounts, either within the same financial institution or across different financial banking institutions in or outside India. Bank transfers in India are typically done through the Indian bank's online banking platform or mobile app and can be initiated by the Indian account holder or authorized third parties. India Bank transfers are relatively safe and secure, and the INR money is usually available in the recipient's account within a few days after processing through the India and international banking system.

A money transfer service in India, on the other hand, is a third-party service that allows you to transfer money in India or other fiat currencies to people in India or other countries. Some examples of money transfer services are XE Money Transfer and Wise Multi-Currency Account. These money services typically have a physical location in India where you can go to initiate the transfer, and the recipient can collect the money as INR. Most money transfer services in India offer online platforms for convenience. Money transfer services in India can be a good option for people who don't have access to a Indian bank account, and the money is usually available for pickup within minutes or a few hours in India.

India Money Transfer Services Vs Bank Transfers Pros And Cons

Money transfer services and bank transfers in India have pros and cons for transferring money in India.

India Money Transfer Services Pros

  • Money transfer services are Convenient and easy to use in India, often through online or mobile platforms easily accessible in India.
  • India money transfer services offer Fast and reliable money transfer options, with some transactions taking minutes.
  • Money transfer services offer competitive INR exchange rates and low fees compared to some traditional Indian banks.
  • India money transfer service companies offer transfers to many countries worldwide.

India Money Transfer Services Cons

  • Some India money transfer services offer limited accessibility in some countries or regions.
  • Exchange rate fluctuations with the INR can affect the amount of money the recipient receives.
  • Hidden fees with some India money transfer services may decrease the amount of money the recipient receives.
  • Security concerns, as with any online financial transactions.

India Bank Transfer Pros

  • Bank transfers in India are generally considered to be more secure than other methods.
  • India bank transfers are Often available in more countries with more receiving options than money transfer services.
  • India Bank transactions can be tracked through official online banking portals in India.

India Bank Transfer Cons

  • Bank transfers in India Can be slower and more time-consuming.
  • May India banks have higher fees than money transfer services in India.
  • Exchange rates when converting INR may not be as favorable as those offered by money transfer services i India.
  • Need to have a Indian bank account to use this service to transfer money.

How Long Do India Money Transfers Take?

The time it takes for a money transfer to complete in India can vary depending on the method used, the countries involved, and the currencies transferred (converted to INR) with the India money transfer.

It's best to check with your Indian bank or money transfer service in India for their specific transfer timeframes.

  • India Electronic bank transfers within the same country can typically be completed within a day or two.
  • International bank transfers in India can take several days to a week or more, depending on the countries involved, currency, and any intermediary non India banks used.
  • Money transfer services such as XE Money Transfer or Wise Multi-Currency Account in India can typically complete transactions within a few minutes to a few hours, but can also take longer if the transaction is being sent to a country that is not served by the India money transfer service provider you have chosen.
  • Cryptocurrency transfers in India can take a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the blockchain network and the number of confirmations required. But converting crypto assets to INR in a form you can access can take some time.

Early History of Money Transfers in India

The first recorded use of money in India dates back to the Iron Age, around the 1st century BC. However, it wasn't until the introduction of the gold standard in the early 19th century that the Indian INR became the official currency of India. Before this, the country had a complex system of coins and currencies that varied by region in India and included gold, silver, copper, and even animal skins and shells.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, the most common way to transfer money in India was through the use of letters of credit, also known as 'bills of exchange.' These were written documents that contained instructions for the Indian recipient to pay a certain sum of INR money to the bearer of the letter. The letters could be transferred from one person to another in India, and the letter would be exchanged or used to pay the specified INR amount upon presentation of the letter. This system facilitated trade and commerce between Indian merchants and other individuals in India.

Another method of transferring money in India during this time was through the use of Indian goldsmiths. Goldsmiths have trusted members of Indian society in India who kept deposits of gold and other valuables for safekeeping. They would issue receipts for the INR deposits, which could then be used as a currency for transactions in India. Suppose someone wanted to transfer money to another person in India. In that case, they could do so by transferring the money receipt or bond to the Indian recipient, who could then redeem it for the corresponding INR value in gold or other valuables from the Indian money dealer or goldsmith.

Modern Money Transfer Options in India

With the advent of Indian electronic banking and payment systems in the 20th century, transferring money in India has become much easier and more convenient. Today, there are several options available for Indian transferring money within India, including:

Online banking In India

Most banks in India offer online banking services, which allow Indian and international customers to manage their accounts and make payments through the internet in India. To transfer INR money using online banking, the sender and recipient must both have a Indian bank account and be registered for online banking with the same bank that has a presence in India. The India money sender can then log in to their online banking account in India and initiate the transfer by entering the Indian recipient's account information and the desired INR amount. The INR funds transfer is usually completed within a few business days. Please note that if you transfer money in any currency other than INR, you will be charged currency conversion fees for converting it to INR, on top of any fees for actioning the money transfer in India.

Mobile Money Transfer Apps In India

In addition to online banking, many Indian banks also offer mobile apps that allow customers India to manage their India accounts and make payments from their smartphones. To transfer INR money using a mobile app, the sender and Indian recipient must either have a bank account or be registered with the same money transfer app. The process for initiating a money transfer in India is similar to online banking, with the added convenience for Indian residents of being able to send and receive money on the go from their computer or phone in India.

Options for International Money Transfer in India

There are several options available for transferring money internationally from India, including:

Bank Transfers To India

Most banks in India offer international money transfer services, which allow customers to send and receive money in INR to and from other countries to Indian residents. To use this service, the sender and Indian recipient must both have a bank account or be registered with the same money transfer service app available in India. Money transfers can be initiated through online banking, using a India money transfer service, or visiting a Indian bank or money transfer branch in person. Bank transfers in India are generally considered to be secure, but they can be slow and may involve high INR fees, especially for transfers to countries outside of the European Union from India.

Money Transfer Companies In India

several companies specialize in domestic and international money transfers in and to India, such as XE Money Transfer and XE Money Transfer. These India money transfer companies operate through a network of physical India locations, as well as online currency platforms in India and Indian mobile money transfer apps. To use a India money service, the sender and recipient do not need to have a Indian bank account, and the fund's transfer in India can be initiated by visiting a location or using the online web platform. Money transfer companies available in India tend to offer faster turnaround times and more flexible payment options than Indian banks. Still, they may charge higher fees for transferring money to users in India.

Foreign Exchange Brokers In India

Indian foreign exchange brokers, such as XE Money Transfer and Wise Multi-Currency Account, offer a range of services for exchanging and transferring multiple currencies not just the INR internationally. Foreign exchange companies available in India typically offer competitive INR exchange rates and low fees, and the process for initiating a transfer in India can be done online or through a mobile app. However, it is important to note that foreign exchange brokers available in India are not regulated in the same way as Indian banks and money transfer companies, and there have been cases of scams and fraudulent activity involving these types of firms for Indian users.

Costs And Fees For International Money Transfers In India

The costs and fees associated with international money transfers in India can vary depending on the type of service and the amount being transferred in INR or other currency. Banks in India generally charge higher fees than money transfer companies and foreign exchange brokers available online to India users, especially for fund transfers to countries outside of the EU from India. In addition to the fees charged by the Indian money transfer service provider, there may also be fees for INR currency exchange and other services. It is important to compare the costs and fees of different providers before initiating a INR transfer in India to ensure that you are getting the best deal on your INR money transfer.

Indian Regulatory Environment For International Money Transfers In India

The international money transfer industry in India is regulated by The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), which is responsible for ensuring that India firms providing these financial services to Indian residents are operating fairly and transparently. The Indian financial regulators require India firms to adhere to certain rules and standards, including the requirement to hold a valid license and to maintain adequate levels of capital and insurance when conducting business in India. Consumers in India have certain rights and protections under the various Indian financial regulatory rules in India, including the right to complain to the official India financial regulator if they feel that they have been treated unfairly or if there are issues with the money transfer service they have received in India.

How Do I Transfer Money In India?

The process of transferring money in India has become much easier and more convenient in recent years, thanks to the availability in India of various electronic channels for sending and receiving INR funds. This article will look at the steps involved in transferring money within India, including the transfer options available for people in India and the information that is typically required.

Step 1: Choose a Money Transfer Method Available In India

The first step in the process of transferring money in India is to choose a method that best meets your INR transfer needs. Some India money transfer options to consider include:

  • Online banking for money transfers in India: Most banks in India offer online banking services, which allow India customers to manage their Indian banking accounts and make payments through the internet in India. To use this option, both the sender and recipient must have a bank account, India bank transfers are cheaper and faster if both INR sender and receiver are with the same bank.
  • Indian Money Transfer Mobile Apps: Many Indian banks also offer mobile apps that allow customers in India to manage their Indian bank accounts and make payments from their smartphones through iOS and Android mobile apps. When using money transfer apps in India, both the sender and recipient must either have a bank account or be registered for the same money transfer app, which offers digital wallets and ESCROW on money transfers for users in India.
  • India Money transfer companies: Companies such as XE Money Transfer and Wise Multi-Currency Account specialize in international money transfers in India and operate through a network of physical India locations, as well as India online money transfer platforms and mobile apps in India. To use money transfer company services available in India, the sender and recipient do not need to have a Indian bank account.

Step 2: Gather The Required Information Required For A India Money Transfer

The next step in the INR transfer process is to gather the information that is required to initiate a money transfer in India. Identity verification may include:

  • Your Indian personal and financial information: Depending on the money transfer method you choose in India, you may be required to provide your name, address, date of birth, and proof of ID. You will also need to provide financial information for a India transfer, such as your bank account or credit card details.
  • The India recipient's information: You will need to provide the India money transfer recipient's name and contact information, as well as the details of their Indian or international bank account or other payment methods available in India.
  • The amount and currency to transfer in India: You will need to specify the amount of money that you want to transfer in India, as well as the currency in which it will be sent and received as it does not have to be INR. Money transfer services in India support multiple currencies.

Step 3: Initiate The India Money Transfer

Once you have gathered the required information needed for your money transfer in India, you can initiate the India transfer by following the appropriate steps for the money transfer method you have chosen in India.

Executing a India money transfer may involve:

  • Logging in to your online Indian banking account.
  • Using a mobile app.
  • Visiting a physical location in India to send or receive your INR.

You may also need to provide additional information or documentation, depending on the specific requirements of the India money service provider.

Step 4: Wait For Your India transfer to be Completed

After initiating a money transfer in India, you will need to wait for it to be processed and completed. Money transfers in India can take anywhere from a few minutes to several business days, usually 2-10 working days, depending on the method and priority service you have chosen to send money in India and any delays that may occur. You will receive a confirmation of the India transfer, or you can check the status of the India funds transfer through your Indian online banking account or by contacting the Indian money service provider you have an account with.

Step 5: Confirm Receipt Of The INR Or Other Currency Funds

Once a money transfer has been completed in India, the recipient should receive the INR funds in their local India or international bank account or money transfer service online wallet available to you in India.

Money Transfers In India Verdict

In conclusion, the money transfer industry in India has come a long way since the days of letters of credit and goldsmiths that were once the norm in India. Today, there is a wide range of money transfer options available for transferring money within India, and internationally, including India online banking, Indian money transfer mobile apps, money transfer companies in India, and foreign exchange brokers offer currency exchange services in India. These India money transfer options offer varying levels of convenience, speed, and cost, and it is important to compare the different providers available in India and choose the one that best meets your needs for transferring money in India. The India regulatory environment in India, overseen by The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), helps to ensure that these financial money services in India are operating fairly and transparently and that Indian consumers and their INR funds are protected.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and digital, the India money transfer industry will likely continue to evolve and offer people in India even more convenient and innovative ways to send and receive INR and other currency funds. Regardless of the money transfer method chosen in India, it is important to carefully consider the costs, fees, and risks associated with any INR money transfer and to take appropriate precautions to ensure the security of your India personal and financial information and importantly the security of your INR funds.

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