At A Glance
The need for fast, reliable, and affordable international money transfers is greater than ever today. Whether you’re supporting loved ones, handling emergencies, or sending a gift, US residents have more options than ever before. But what is the fastest way to transfer money to friends and family abroad from the USA?
This comprehensive guide explores the quickest ways to send money abroad, focusing on lightning-fast digital transfer apps, the growing popularity of instant gift cards, and the role of traditional bank wires. You’ll also find practical tips to ensure your transfer is as speedy and hassle-free as possible.
Why Speed Matters in International Transfers
For many families, speed isn’t just a convenience – it’s a necessity. Emergencies, tuition deadlines, medical needs, or urgent bills can’t wait days for funds to arrive. That’s why zeroing in on the fastest way to transfer money to friends and family abroad is vital for anyone sending support from the USA.
Gone are the days when international wires were the only option. Today, digital apps and creative solutions like instant gift cards can deliver funds in minutes. Let’s break down your best options.
Also Read: What Makes Money Transfer Apps Better Than Banks for Sending Money?
1. Digital Money Transfer Apps: The Fastest Solution
Why Digital Apps Are the Top Choice
Digital money transfer apps have revolutionized the remittance industry. By leveraging technology, global partnerships, and local payout networks, these platforms can deliver money across borders in minutes, often bypassing the paperwork and delays of traditional banking.
Key Features of Leading Apps
- Transfers can arrive within minutes, especially for cash pickup or mobile wallet options.
- Available 24/7 via mobile apps or web platforms.
- Transparent fees and real-time exchange rates.
- Secure, regulated, and user-friendly interfaces.
Top Instant Transfer Apps for US Senders
Remitly
Remitly’s ‘Express’ transfers can deliver funds to bank accounts, cash pickup locations, or mobile wallets in over 170 countries, often within minutes. The app offers real-time tracking, guaranteed delivery times, and competitive exchange rates. Recipients can collect cash at hundreds of thousands of locations worldwide, making it a top choice for urgent family support.
Western Union
With over 600,000 agent locations in over 200 countries, Western Union is a global leader for instant transfers. You can send money online, via their app, or in person for cash pickup, bank deposit, or mobile wallet delivery. Same-day transfers are available, especially for cash pickup funded by debit/credit card or cash. The network’s reach and reliability are unmatched, especially in regions with limited banking access.
MoneyGram
MoneyGram offers transfers to 200+ countries, with cash pickup at over 400,000 locations. Transfers funded by debit card or cash can often be picked up within minutes. MoneyGram also allows for scheduled recurring transfers and is widely used for regular remittances.
Wise (formerly TransferWise)
Wise is known for transparent fees and using the real mid-market exchange rate. While bank transfers may take 1-3 business days, transfers funded by debit/credit cards can arrive within minutes in many countries. Wise is great for mid-sized transfers, offering a clear breakdown of costs and real-time tracking.
Xoom (a PayPal Service)
Xoom enables US users to send money to nearly 160 countries, with options for bank deposit, cash pickup, and mobile wallet top-up. Many transfers arrive within minutes, regardless of funding method. Xoom’s integration with PayPal and its vast payout network make it a popular choice for urgent payments.
Taptap Send
Taptap Send specializes in fast, affordable transfers to Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Most transfers arrive in minutes, with low fees and strong exchange rates. The app is easy to use and offers multiple payout options, including mobile wallets and cash pickup.
Also Read: Top 10 Apps to Send Money Internationally From the USA
Pros and Cons of Digital Apps
Pros:
- Instant or same-day delivery in most cases.
- Wide global coverage and multiple payout options.
- Transparent pricing and real-time tracking.
- No need for both sender and recipient to have bank accounts.
Cons:
- Fees and exchange rates can vary by payment method and destination.
- There are limits on transfer amounts (e.g., $50,000/day for Xoom, $5,000/transfer for MoneyGram).
- Some destinations may require additional verification or documentation.
When to Use Digital Apps
Digital apps are the best choice for:
- Urgent family support or emergencies.
- Recipients who need cash pickup or mobile wallet delivery.
- Regular remittances to countries with established agent networks.
2. Sending Money via Gift Cards: The Second Fastest and Flexible Alternative
How Digital Gift Cards Work for International Transfers
Gift cards are emerging as a fast, flexible, and often fee-free way to send value abroad. All you need to do is purchase a digital (or physical) gift card from a major provider, such as Visa, Mastercard, Amazon, or Google Play, and send it instantly to your recipient’s email.
How to Send a Gift Card Internationally:
- Choose a reputable gift card platform or retailer.
- Select the card type and value (Visa/Mastercard for broad use, Amazon for online shopping, etc.).
- Enter your recipient’s email (digital delivery) or physical address (for physical cards).
- Pay with your US debit/credit card or bank account.
- The recipient receives the code instantly and can spend or redeem it as needed.
Benefits of Gift Cards for Fast International Transfers
- No Transfer Fees: Most digital gift cards have no sending or activation fees.
- Instant Delivery: E-gift cards are delivered within minutes, 24/7.
- No Bank Account Needed: Ideal for recipients without access to banking.
- Flexible Use: Visa/Mastercard cards can be used online or in-store, while Amazon and other retailer cards are great for shopping or digital content.
- Personal Touch: Gift cards are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or emergencies.
Limitations and Considerations
- Spending Restrictions: Store-specific cards (like Amazon) may only be usable in certain countries or on specific websites.
- Cash Conversion: Some recipients may need to sell the card on a marketplace to get cash, which could involve a discount or fee.
- Regional Usability: Not all cards work globally; always check if the card is redeemable in the recipient’s country and currency.
- Security: Only buy from trusted sources to avoid scams or invalid cards.
Best Use Cases for Gift Cards
- Emergencies when you need to get value to someone instantly.
- Gifts and celebrations.
- Supporting recipients in countries with limited banking access.
Gift cards are a creative solution for fast, small-value transfers and gifts, offering speed and flexibility where traditional methods might fall short.
Also Read: What Makes Gift Cards the Best Choice for Sending Money Abroad
3. Bank Wire Transfers: Reliable but Slower
How Bank Wires Work
Bank wire transfers are a tried-and-true method for moving money internationally. They are executed through the SWIFT network, connecting thousands of banks worldwide. The sender provides the recipient’s bank details (name, account number, SWIFT/BIC code, and sometimes IBAN or bank address), and the bank processes the transfer electronically.
Processing Times
- Typical Speed: 1-5 business days, depending on the destination, currency, and intermediary banks involved.
- Same-Day Transfers: These are possible if initiated before the bank’s cutoff time (usually 5–6 PM ET), but they are not guaranteed.
- Delays: Can occur due to weekends, holidays, missing documents, or incorrect recipient details.
Fees and Costs
- Outgoing International Wire Fees: This is often an average of $44 per transfer, but it can range from $30 to $50, depending on the bank.
- Exchange Rate Markup: Banks often add 2-6% to the real exchange rate, which can significantly reduce the amount received.
- Additional Fees: Intermediary banks may deduct further charges en route.
When to Use Bank Wires
- Large transfers (property purchases, business payments).
- When both sender and recipient have established bank accounts.
- High-security or regulated transactions.
Downsides Compared to Digital Apps and Gift Cards
- Slower delivery (1–5 days vs. minutes).
- Higher fees and less transparent exchange rates.
- Both parties must have bank accounts.
- More paperwork and potential for delays due to errors or compliance checks.
Tips for Speeding Up International Transfers
Even with the fastest services, a few practical steps can help you avoid delays and ensure your money arrives quickly.
1. Prepare Recipient Information in Advance
- Double-check recipient names, account numbers, and bank details for accuracy.
- For cash pickup, ensure the recipient’s ID matches the transfer details.
- Confirm the recipient’s email or delivery address for gift cards and that the card is usable in their region.
2. Choose the Right Transfer Method for the Destination and Urgency
- Use digital apps with cash pickup or mobile wallet options for instant needs.
- Consider gift cards or services with extensive agent networks for recipients without bank access.
- Bank wires are best for large, secure transfers, but plan for processing time.
3. Avoid Common Delays
- Initiate transfers early in the day and avoid weekends or holidays.
- Ensure all required documents and verification steps are completed.
- Use services with 24/7 customer support for urgent issues.
4. Use Tracking and Notifications
- Most digital apps and banks provide tracking numbers and real-time updates.
- Share the reference or pickup code with your recipient immediately.
- For gift cards, confirm delivery and remind the recipient to check their email (including spam/junk folders).
5. Consider Currency and Local Banking Infrastructure
- Some countries have slower banking systems or stricter documentation requirements.
- Using multi-currency accounts or sending local currency can speed up delivery.
Also Read: The Most Popular Ways to Send Money to Family and Friends
Conclusion
For US residents, the fastest way to transfer money to friends and family abroad is through digital money transfer apps like Remitly, Western Union, MoneyGram, Wise, and Xoom. These platforms offer instant or same-day delivery, global reach, and flexible payout options, making them ideal for urgent needs and regular support.
Digital gift cards are the second-fastest and most flexible alternative, delivering value instantly without fees or needing a bank account. They’re perfect for emergencies, gifts, or supporting recipients in regions with limited banking access.
Traditional bank wires remain a secure choice for large or regulated transfers, but they are generally slower and more expensive than digital solutions. Here is what you should remember:
- Use digital apps for the fastest, most reliable transfers.
- Consider gift cards for instant and fee-free transfers, especially for small amounts or non-bank recipients.
- Reserve bank wires for large, secure, or business-related payments.
- Always double-check recipient details, compare fees and exchange rates, and use tracking features to ensure speedy delivery.
Start your next international transfer with confidence. Choose the method that best fits your needs, and your friends and family will thank you for the speed and convenience. Apps like Beem offer a modern solution for sending money abroad with its Send Now, Pay Later™ feature, giving users flexibility and speed when supporting loved ones across borders. Download the Beem app here.
