International Money Guide

United Kingdom

Send money abroad from the UK

Paying someone overseas from a UK account can cost more than the fee on the screen. This guide explains the full cost, how to compare providers, when Wise may fit, and the country-specific Wise Business pricing.

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Quick answer

What is the best way to send money internationally from the UK?

For transfers that involve currency conversion, Wise is a strong option to check because it shows the exchange rate, Wise fee and recipient amount before you pay.

The exact cost depends on the route, amount and funding method, so use a current quote for your own transfer.

Wise for personal transfers

Check the current Wise price for your transfer

The exact price depends on amount, currencies and funding method. Open Wise for a current quote and confirm the final rate and fee before paying.

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Does a signup discount apply? Check eligibility →

COST STACK

International transfer costs, explained

An international transfer can cost money in several places at once. Some are visible, some sit inside the exchange rate.

Transfer or service fee
The charge for sending. Some banks list a flat fee for international payments; specialists show their own.
Exchange rate
The rate at which your pounds convert. On larger sums it matters more than any fee.
Exchange-rate markup
The difference between the rate offered and the mid-market rate. A cost, even when the fee says zero.
Payment-method fees
Paying by bank transfer is usually cheaper than paying by card.
Intermediary (SWIFT) fees
Correspondent banks on a SWIFT route may deduct charges along the way.
Recipient-bank fees
The receiving bank may charge for an incoming international payment.
Final amount received
What actually arrives. Compare providers on this figure.

Compare the amount the recipient ultimately receives, not only the advertised transfer fee.

Compare your options

The best money transfer depends on the amount and destination.

Compare what arrives after fees, the exchange rate, the payment method and the delivery option. A provider that works for €50 may not be the best for €50,000.

Your existing bank

For euro payments within SEPA, a normal bank transfer may be simpler and cheaper.

Transfer specialists

Compare Wise, Remitly and other services for your actual route and amount.

Currency-exchange apps

Check Revolut plan allowances, weekend fees and transfer charges separately.

BUSINESS

Wise Business

For companies paying suppliers, contractors or teams abroad, compare any one-time business fee, transfer fee, FX rate, receiving details and workflow tools — not only the headline transfer fee.

Wise Business guide →
WHEN IT FITS
  • Sending between currencies

    This is where rate markups add up and where an upfront quote is most useful.

  • You want the full quote first

    You see the fee, the rate and the amount received before you commit.

  • Recurring transfers

    Rent, tuition or family support sent regularly, where small differences compound.

  • Paying into a bank account abroad

    Paying a person or business that has a local account in the destination country.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest way to send money internationally from United Kingdom?

There is no universal cheapest provider. Compare the recipient amount for the same route and amount after the exchange rate, transfer fee and funding-method costs.

When should I compare Wise with my bank?

For currency conversion, Wise shows its exchange rate, fees and recipient amount before you confirm. For local and SEPA transfers, check your bank’s terms as well.

How can I check whether a Wise signup benefit applies?

Before registering, look for any offer and eligibility terms shown by Wise. No specific reward has been confirmed for this link; do not assume a discount unless Wise displays one.

How much does Wise Business cost in United Kingdom?

Registration is free; £50 is charged once to unlock account details. Wise lists sending/conversion from 0.24%. Always check the live quote for your currency and amount.

What should a business compare?

Beyond rate and fee, compare receiving account details, batch payments, team access, accounting integrations, limits and how suppliers or contractors get paid.

Source: Wise ↗ · Display estimate from Wise — confirm the final rate and fee on Wise before sending.

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