How to Send Money Internationally

At some point, you may need to send money to a person or business abroad. The good news is you can do so through an international money transfer, which can allow you to send funds easily and reliably around the world. Here’s what you need to know about what an international money transfer is, some international money transfer methods, and how to send money internationally.

What is an international money transfer?

Also known as an international bank transfer, an international money transfer is when you send money to a person or business overseas. You can complete this transaction through a bank or via a special money transfer service like Western Union. The money transfer recipient can receive the funds electronically or in cash.

How international money transfers with Western Union work

Advance America offers international money transfers with Western Union. You can send money abroad quickly, online, in-person, or through the Western Union app. Your recipient may collect the funds via direct deposit in their bank account or pick up cash at a nearby Western Union location.

Ways to send money internationally

The right way to send money internationally depends on your unique situation. Here are the international money transfer options available through Western Union:

Online

With an online international money transfer, you can start and complete your transaction online from the comfort of your home. Once you pay with a debit or credit card¹, the funds will be on their way to your recipient. According to Western Union, you can complete an online international money transfer with a few taps. This can be a good choice if you need to send money overseas quickly as your receiver can pickup cash a Western Union agent location near them in minutes².

In person

If you prefer to handle your international money transfer in person, visit an Advance America location near you. If you choose to go this route, a friendly and knowledgeable customer service representative will guide you through the international money transfer process.

Stage and Pay

With Stage and Pay, you can start the international money transfer process online or through the Western Union app. As long as you select “Pay in Store,” you can pay in cash at a nearby Advance America location within 12 hours. Stage and Pay might make sense if you feel more comfortable paying for your international money transfer in person but want to speed things up.

How can I send money internationally?

To send money internationally, follow these simple steps:

1. Gather all necessary information

First, make sure you have a government-issued ID like a driver’s license or passport on hand. Then, ask the recipient for their banking details if they want their funds via direct deposit.

2. Provide money transfer details in person or online

Whether you go through the process in person or online, you’ll need to reveal the recipient’s country and the amount you wish to send them. You’ll also be asked to share how the recipient wants their money: direct deposit or cash pickup.

3. Pay for the money transfer

Next, you’ll pay for the international money transfer. You can send money for cash pickup in minutes² with a debit or credit card. If you’d rather pay through your bank account, that’s an option as well.

4. Send the money transfer

Depending on the method you chose, the money may arrive to your recipient within minutes². You’ll receive a receipt and tracking number (MTCN), which can allow you to track the transfer. Your receiver will also need this number for cash pickup.

Send money internationally with Western Union

With Western Union, you can transfer money globally to more than 200 countries and territories all over the world. Advance America is a Western Union partner and makes the international money transfer process fast and easy. Visit our website for more information on how you can complete an international money transfer.

¹ If you’re using a credit card, a card-issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. To avoid these fees or for reduced fees, use a debit card or check other payment methods.

² Date available will be displayed on receipt for international transfers over $15. Service and funds may be delayed or unavailable depending on certain factors including the Service selected, the selection of delayed delivery options, special terms applicable to each Service, amount sent, destination country, currency availability, regulatory issues, consumer protection issues, identification requirements, delivery restrictions, agent location hours, and differences in time zones (collectively, "Restrictions"). Additional restrictions may apply.