How to Send Money Internationally Using Gift Cards

In this age of globalism, the need to send money internationally has become more common than ever. Individuals are constantly seeking fast and affordable ways to transfer funds to their families, pay for services, or surprise a friend abroad with a thoughtful gift. One lesser-known but increasingly popular method is giving gift cards as a way to remit money across borders.

Although this process is not commonly used, it offers several advantages, especially for those who desire to evade substantial transfer fees or those who are looking for an alternative to circumvent the limitations that come with traditional banking.

This article will discuss different methods of using gift cards to send money across countries, including the pros and cons of this method and its comparison with other methods.

Overview of Benefits

Gift cards offer several compelling benefits when used as a tool for sending money internationally:

• Low or No Transfer Fees: Traditional international transfers often incur steep transaction fees. Gift cards, especially digital ones, usually involve minimal costs.

• Ease of Use: Many gift cards are available online, so sending one to someone abroad can be as simple as clicking a few buttons.

• Speed: E-gift cards are often delivered instantly via email or text, making them ideal for last-minute transfers.

• Flexible Options: Retailer-specific gift cards let the recipient choose what they need, be it groceries, electronics, or household items.

Using Gift Cards for International Transfers

Although offering gift cards as a means of international money transfer might appear unconventional, it is relatively simple. You are not sending actual cash; you are transferring monetary value to the recipient as a gift card that may be used in the nation where the recipient resides.

For instance, a person in the United States might pay for an Amazon India gift card and then email it to a family member who lives in India. The relative in question can then use the card to make purchases straight from Amazon India, receiving monetary support without needing a conventional wire transfer.

Types of Gift Cards

1. Prepaid Visa or Mastercard Gift Cards: Depending on the card’s terms, these can be used internationally. However, not all prepaid cards are accepted abroad, so it’s essential to check.

2. Retailer-Specific Gift Cards: These include cards for global brands like Amazon, Apple, and Google Play, or regional giants like Flipkart in India or Carrefour in the Middle East.

Using Locally Accepted Gift Cards for Transfers

A highly effective approach is using locally accepted gift cards. These retailer-specific cards are popular and widely accepted in the recipient’s country.

Country-Specific Examples

• India: Flipkart, Amazon India, Paytm

• Philippines: Lazada, GCash

• Mexico: Mercado Libre, Amazon Mexico

• Nigeria: Jumia, MTN Mobile Top-Up

Sending a gift card tailored to a specific region ensures the recipient can use it without restrictions. It also helps them avoid conversion fees or the hassle of dealing with cards not supported in their country.

How the Process Works

1. Identify a Local Retailer: Choose a retailer or service platform that operates in the recipient’s country.

2. Purchase the Gift Card: Use an online platform or authorized retailer to buy the e-gift card.

3. Send Digitally: Email or text the gift card to the recipient, including any necessary redemption instructions.

4. Redeem Locally: The recipient can now spend the card’s value in their country, either online or in-store.

Read related blogs: How to Get an Instant Cash Advance With Cash App Account

Benefits of Using Locally Accepted Gift Cards

Using retailer-specific or country-specific gift cards for international money transfers offers several meaningful advantages, primarily when you aim to provide real, usable value to someone abroad. Below is a deeper look into why locally accepted gift cards are such a practical choice:

1. High Redemption Value

One of the most significant advantages of using locally accepted gift cards is that they retain their full value when used by the recipient. Unlike traditional wire transfers or services like Western Union and PayPal, which often incur currency conversion fees, intermediary charges, or hidden costs, gift cards avoid these pitfalls.

2. Convenience

Purchasing and sending a locally accepted gift card is incredibly simple and fast, making it a convenient solution for both parties. Many global platforms (like Amazon, Google, or Apple) and regional marketplaces (like Flipkart in India or Jumia in Africa) offer gift cards through official websites or third-party vendors, many of which accept international payment methods.

3. Practical Support for Everyday Needs

Unlike sending a general-purpose cash transfer that could be spent anywhere (or lost to other costs), locally accepted gift cards offer targeted, practical support, especially helpful when ensuring the money is used for essential needs. Even though it’s not cash, the recipient retains the autonomy to choose what they need most from a wide selection of goods and services available through the chosen retailer.

Key Considerations When Using Gift Cards

While this method can be convenient, it’s essential to understand the limitations and potential pitfalls.

Redemption Options

Not all gift cards are universally accepted. A U.S.-issued Amazon gift card, for example, on Amazon India. Always ensure the gift card is valid in the recipient’s region.

Exchange Rates and Fees

Gift cards themselves don’t typically involve exchange rates. However, if a recipient tries to resell the card or convert it to cash, they may receive less than face value. Some online platforms charge a fee for exchanging gift cards for local currency.

Security and Safety

• Avoid Scams: Only buy gift cards from reputable sources.

• Keep Receipts: In case of issues, having a purchase receipt helps.

• Use Digital Formats: E-gift cards are more secure and easier to track than physical ones.

Pros and Cons of Sending Money with Gift Cards

Advantages

• Low or No Fees: Unlike banks or money transfer apps, many gift card transactions are fee-free.

• Accessibility: Ideal for recipients without access to bank accounts or traditional financial services.

• Speed: Digital delivery is near-instant, which is crucial for urgent situations.

Disadvantages

• Limited Use: The recipient can only use the card at specific retailers or within certain platforms.

• Not Cash: Can’t always be used for rent, utilities, or services not affiliated with the retailer.

• Security Risks: Gift cards can be stolen or phished if sent to the wrong recipient or shared carelessly.

Read related blogs: 15 Best Cash Advance Apps in 2025

Alternative Methods for International Transfers

While gift cards offer an innovative way to send value internationally, they are not always the best fit for every situation. Here’s a quick comparison with more traditional options:

Method	Speed	Fees	Best For
Bank Transfer	1–5 days	High	Large sums, direct to bank
PayPal/Xoom	Minutes to hours	Moderate	Quick transfers to digital wallets
Western Union	Minutes	High	Cash pick-up in remote areas
Gift Cards	Instant	Low/None	Everyday purchases, quick support

Conclusion

Gift cards are an excellent instrument for international money transfers that are often overlooked, particularly for individuals looking for minimal fees, rapid delivery, and convenience. They offer a one-of-a-kind method of providing their friends and relatives living abroad with money that can be used.

However, just like any other financial instrument, gift cards require careful consideration. You are responsible for ensuring that the gift card may be used in the recipient’s nation, considering any potential security threats, and determining whether it suits the recipient’s requirements.

The AI-powered Beem app can send money and offers a seamless transfer of funds instantly, even if the recipient doesn’t have a bank account. This makes it ideal for helping family or friends in urgent situations. The platform ensures speed without compromising on convenience. Beem’s Send Now, Pay Later™ is perfect for those needing reliable and instant online money transfer access.

When used appropriately, gift cards can be a great alternative or supplement to traditional methods of international transfer. They can make providing support across borders more expedient, less complicated, and frequently more personal.

FAQs: How to Send Money Internationally Using Gift Cards