ICICI Money2India Money Transfer: Review & Comprehensive Guide

For generations, the United States of America has been a haven of opportunities and dreams for Nepalis—a place to pursue education, build a career, and weave a brighter future. If you are reading this, you are probably among the hard-working Nepalis living in the US, hustling and juggling to support your family back home in Nepal.No matter how far you live, your heart always belongs to your home, Nepal. You keep sending money home frequently to support your parents, pay for your siblings’ education, or help with the household expenses. Every dollar you send makes a real difference for your loved ones.But the real challenge you face is high fees, low exchange rates, or slow transfer service. You deserve a quick, affordable, and trustworthy service. That is where this guide comes in.We will show you the best ways to send money to Nepal, which will help you save on exchange fees and provide the best exchange rates.How Does Remittance Work?The remittance process is quite simple. When you send money from the US to Nepal, you have to initiate the transfer through an app, bank, or agent. You pay the money in USD and the provider converts it into NPR.The provider is responsible for handling the currency exchange and moving the funds to Nepal. The transfer can be done instantly by picking up the cash, or it may take a couple of days if you choose to deposit it in the bank.Whichever method you choose, cash pickup, app transfer, or bank deposit, your family in Nepal receives the money in the promised time.Despite that, all services are not equal. Banks are a great way to transfer money, but they charge a higher transfer fee and are slower than apps. Online apps are the best option for low transfer fees and speed. On the contrary, cash pickup is the top choice for urgent requirements. They are reliable yet expensive.Remember, it is essential to find out the best way to send money to Nepal before initiating the process.Key Factors When Sending USD to NepalExchange rateCertain forex providers on the internet offer “zero-free” transfer options, but they give low exchange rates in return. It is recommended to find the best rate using a reliable platform to check the best rates.Even a small difference in the exchange rate can gradually cost you and your family lots of NPRs.Transfer feesThere are two types of transfer fees—flat fees and percentage-based fees. Flat fees are a fixed price per transfer, whereas percentage-based fees are a percentage of your transaction amount. Both types have certain benefits. Look at the table below to understand better through an example on the different amounts you will send and when a certain option is better:Send AmountFlat Fee ($5)Percent Fee (3%)Better Option$100$5$3Percent fee$500$5$15Flat Fee$1,000$5$30Flat FeeAlways check the flat fee and the percentage fee of the provider before sending money.SpeedSome services deliver the cash instantly, but you will have to pay high transfer fees for the speed. If you can wait for a couple of days, regular remittance offers better exchange rates with lower transfer fees. Fast transfers can also have hidden charges, like receiving costs in Nepal; always check for them in the itemized bill before sending money.Step-by-Step Guide to Send Money to NepalTransferring money to Nepal is not complex. All you have to do is follow these three simple steps to send money.Step 1: Find the best rateIt is crucial to compare the exchange rates of different providers and choose the one that offers a high exchange rate but a low transfer fee. Use a comparison tool like CompareRemit to get the best NPR exchange rate. It shows you different providers, exchange rates, transfer fees, transfer time, and the amount that you will receive.Step 2: Send the moneyThe two best ways to send money to Nepal are online transfer and cash pickup. You must know by now that online transfer offers low transfer fees. You can choose from providers like Remitly and Wise to send money to Nepal.When your family needs money urgently, you can choose cash pickup. All you have to do is visit the agent in the US, deposit the money, and your family can instantly pick up the cash in Nepal from over 15,000+ locations.Step 3: Keep track of your transferEvery time you transfer the money, you will get an email or SMS confirmation. If you have deposited the money but haven’t received the confirmation, reach out to the provider immediately.Once the money is ready to be picked up, you will be notified. You can inform your family to get it. When your family is taking the money in cash, ask them to check if the agent has deducted any extra charges. In case of bank transfers, ask them to always check if the full amount has been credited or not. Some intermediary banks keep their cut.Transfer Money to Nepal with ConfidenceThe best money transfer to Nepal method should be easy, quick, and affordable. By choosing the right provider, you can maximize your USD to NPR exchange, providing your family with more money over time. Regardless of your transfer mode—online, bank deposit, or cash pickup, always ensure to compare the exchange rate. To get the best USD to NPR exchange rate available, use CompareRemit. It is an easy-to-use and reliable platform that finds the highest exchange rate and lowest transfer fee.Frequently Asked Questions About USD to NPR TransfersQ: Which remit is best to send money to Nepal?CompareRemit helps you find the best remittance service among various providers to send money to Nepal.Q: Is Remitly safe to send money to Nepal?Yes, Remitly is licensed and secure for money transfers.Q: Why did my family receive less than I sent?Your family may receive less NPR than you sent due to hidden charges. Always check with the provider about extra costs.Q: What is the best exchange rate for USD to NPR?The highest exchange rate for USD to NPR has been 1 USD = 140.13 NPR on 7th February, 2025.Q: Which currency is the highest in Nepal?As of now, USD holds the highest value against NPR. Use CompareRemit's NPR exchange rate calculator to find the value of USD to NPR.

For many immigrants or individuals supporting their families in the Philippines, understanding the fluctuations in USD to PHP exchange rates is very tricky. Navigating the intricacies of these rates involves examining a spectrum of economic, political, and social factors.CompareRemit is here to make life easier for you, so you can make the best decision with little to no hassle on your part. In this guide, we'll unravel the complexities surrounding USD to PHP exchange rates, providing valuable insights to empower you in making informed decisions for your money transfers.​​Interest Rates: The Currency Tug-of-WarOne of the primary factors that influence exchange rates is  interest rates. When the U.S. Federal Reserve adjusts interest rates, it sends ripples through the currency market. Generally, higher interest rates attract foreign investment, strengthening the USD against the PHP. For individuals, keeping an eye on interest rate differentials between the U.S. and the Philippines can offer insights into potential shifts in exchange rates.Inflation: The Balancing ActInflation, the rise in the price of goods and services, plays a pivotal role in currency valuation. Countries experiencing lower inflation rates often witness an appreciation in their currency. Comparing inflation rates between the U.S. and the Philippines allows you to gauge the potential strength of the USD. A lower inflation rate in the U.S. compared to the Philippines may contribute to a stronger USD.Government Policies: Shaping Economic StabilityGovernment decisions and economic policies, both domestic and international, have large impacts on exchange rates. Policies promoting economic stability, prudent fiscal management, and sound monetary measures contribute to a stronger currency. Staying informed about the policies of both the U.S. and the Philippines will allow you to gain an understanding of the economic health and help predict dips and rises in exchange rates. Trade Balances: A Global PerspectiveThe dynamics of global trade, including exports and imports, definitely impact currency values. A country with a trade surplus, exporting more than it imports, may see a stronger currency. It might be very tedious to stay up to date with trade imbalances between the U.S. and the Philippines, but doing so can serve as an indicator of potential exchange rate movements.Historical Data: Patterns and PredictionsAnalyzing historical USD to PHP exchange rate trends can reveal patterns and provide insights. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, understanding how rates responded to similar economic, political, or social events can guide your decisions. Historical data offers a valuable tool for predicting potential movements in exchange rates.Practical Tips for Informed Money TransfersStay Informed: Regularly follow financial news and updates from both the U.S. and the Philippines to understand the broader economic context. Regularly read our blogs to stay up to date with all the major money transfer news. Utilize Reliable Tools: Use CompareRemit’s online comparison tool and email alerts to track real-time exchange rates, ensuring you get the best value for your money transfers.Seek Professional Advice: Consulting financial experts or using professional services can provide personalized insights tailored to your specific situation, enhancing your decision-making process.In conclusion, comprehending the factors influencing USD to PHP exchange rates empowers you to make informed decisions when sending money to the Philippines. By staying attuned to economic indicators, leveraging historical data, and adopting a proactive approach, you optimize your money transfers, securing a more stable financial future for your loved ones.

If you are in search of cheap money transfer options to send money to India from the US, you have come to the right blog!With countless options available in the money transfer marketplace, it is important to know how to navigate the labyrinth of international money transfer services to find the most affordable and secure solution.This blog is your guide to achieve just that-affordable, cheap, and secure money transfers to India from the USA.Say goodbye to hidden fees and unfavorable exchange rates as we uncover tips, and services that will empower you to make your international money transfers a breeze.Understanding International Money Transfer CostsAn international money transfer's cost depends on a few key factors:Exchange RatesIf you want to send money in a different currency, it is crucial to understand the intricacies of currency exchange rates.When you send money internationally, the financial institution or service provider handling your transaction will convert your USD to INR. This conversion rate is where they make a profit, typically offered at a rate higher than the real exchange rates.To ensure you are getting a fair deal, compare what you are quoted with the real exchange rates, which you can find on any of the currency conversion tools such as XE, Reuters, etc.While the exchange rate is not a fee, it significantly impacts the cost of the money transfers. It determines the final amount your beneficiary receives.Given that exchange rates fluctuate due to market conditions, it's best to consider these fluctuations when sending money transfers to India from the USA.Correspondent FeesSome money transfer services use third-party banks to facilitate international money transfers. This third party usually deducts a certain fee from the amount that your beneficiary finally receives. The fees vary depending on the banks and are typically not shown upfront.CommissionThis fee is imposed by the service provider and the exact amount can differ from one provider to another.Foreign Currency Conversion TaxIt is applied when you are converting one currency to another. The fee is typically consistent and follows rates established by the government. It's important to be aware that this tax is associated with currency conversion transactions.Service TaxService tax is a charge applied to the commission, not the entire transaction amount. In other words, the percentage applied for service tax is based on the commission fee imposed by the service provider, not the total amount of the transaction.Why Transferring Money to India from the US isn't the Cheapest Through Banks?We all know banks have been the traditional method for sending money overseas for a long time. However, they aren't always the cheapest and most efficient method.They charge exorbitant fees, offer you poor exchange rates, and often have hidden charges that will increase the overall cost of the transfers.In addition, even a simple international money transfer involves a lot of paperwork, long waits, and complicated bank procedures.Your best bet for cheap money transfer options would be online money transfer services. These dedicated money transfer platforms offer much better rates and overall better services.A website or mobile app is all you need to place the money transfer order and complete the transaction. These platforms are available 24x7 so you can place an order at any time, at your convenience.Cheapest Ways to Send Money to India from the USBefore you decide on which service is best for transfers to India from the US, it is important to know that the cheapest method will depend on your specific requirements such as the transfer size, the transfer speed, the payment method, and the delivery method.Also, note that the cheapest method may not be the best method for your needs.Here are a few tips to help you choose the right service:Consider the reliability of the option you are choosing.Take into account the exchange rate, hidden fees, customer ratings, and time taken to do the transfer as well.Another very important feature is convenience.Now let's get to the main topic of the blog which is the cheapest ways to transfer money to India from US.WiseWise is one of the cheapest online money transfer services to send money anywhere in the world. The service is far more affordable, quicker, and more convenient for anyone looking to send money from the US.Upsides:Real Exchange Rates: Wise uses a mid-market exchange rate or the real exchange rate. It’s the rate you see on Google or XE. This will save you from the exorbitant exchange rates that are typically masked as free or zero-commission transactions.Low Fees: The fixed cost consists of a flat fee of about $1 and a percentage of the transfer value, slightly less than 1%. Credit card fees are higher. Using a debit card or an ACH transfer from your bank account is cheaper.Upfront Costs: You will see the costs for your overseas transfers upfront and be assured that you will only pay what you see!Free First Transfer: You can use the referral link which will exempt you from the transfer fee on your first transfer.High App Ratings. Users rate Wise’s iOS and Android mobile apps 4.3 out of 5 stars.Fast Transfer Speed: 50%+ of payments are instant, 90%+ arrive in 24 hoursDownsides:Not Always the Best Deal for Larger Transfers. Some providers don't charge any fees and can offer competitive rate markups, which can make some transfers cheaper than Wise.XE Money TransferWith over 25 years of experience, XE is a reputable authority in the currency world. Businesses and individuals alike rely on XE to facilitate comprehensive money transfers and provide competitive rates and foreign exchange risk management solutions.Upsides:Competitive Exchange Rates: XE Money Transfers typically provides favorable exchange rates that are close to the interbank rates.No Transfer Fees: They often do not charge any transfer fees.Cheaper for Large Transfers: It offers the cheapest rates for large transfers ($4000 and above). A good pick for large bank-to-bank transfers.Transparent Pricing: XE offers clear and detailed information about the exchange rates and any potential fees, ensuring you know exactly how much your recipient will receive.Market Updates and Tools: You have access to valuable market insights, currency conversion tools, and historical exchange rate data, helping you make informed decisions when transferring money.Downsides:Limited Delivery Option: Only offers bank-to-bank transfers.Complex Fee Structure: The fees of XE can be somewhat complex and may not be the cheapest out there. Additionally, the recipient's bank may impose additional fees for receiving international transfers, and these fees are beyond the control of XE money transfers.SkrillSkrill is a trusted e-wallet platform that enables international money transfers over 40 currencies. Though it is originally associated with the gambling industry, it is a safe and secure platform. It was founded in the UK and it is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.Upsides:Zero Transfer Fees: If you have a Skrill account, you can send money to an international bank account with zero transfer fee. There are also no transfer fees for receiving the money to your Skrill account or when paying a merchant directly from your Skrill wallet.Prepaid Mastercard: Skrill offers a prepaid Mastercard linked to your account that can be used to withdraw money from ATMs and make in-person purchases.Multi-Currency Wallet: You can hold and manage multiple currencies within your Skrill account, enabling you to make exchanges and send money in different currencies with ease.Downsides:Verification Process: Some users have found the verification process for Skrill accounts to be cumbersome and time-consuming.Fees: Skrill may charge fees for certain transactions, including currency conversions and withdrawals, which can make it less cost-effective for some people.Inactivity Fees: Skrill may charge inactivity fees for accounts that remain dormant for an extended period, which can be a concern if you do not use the service frequently.Withdrawal Restrictions: There may be limits on the amount of money you can withdraw from your Skrill account, which can be restrictive if you have larger transfer needs.RemitlyRemitly is among the most affordable and popular international money transfer providers for sending money to India from the US. Founded in 2011, millions of people have used Remitly to send money to friends and family overseas.Upsides:Competitive Exchange Rates: Remitly offers competitive USD to INR exchange ratesBest Option of In-person Cash Pick-up: Opt for cash pick-up at 100,000+ locations in India.Multiple Transfer Options: Provides different delivery options, including bank deposits, cash pickup, mobile money, and airtime top-up.Promotional Offers: Remitly occasionally offers promotional rates and discounts for new users. You can also earn rewards when you refer your friends and family and use an offer code to redeem an offer.Express and Economy Services: Offers both express and economy transfer services, allowing users to choose the speed of their transactions, with corresponding fee differences.Transparent Fee Structure: Provides clear information on transfer fees and exchange rates.Downsides:Fees for Express Transfers: While Remitly may offer lower fees for economy transfers, the fees for express transfers can be relatively high due to its faster delivery speed.Inconsistent Transfer Fees: Transfer Fees vary depending on the country and quantity transferred.Limits on Transfer Amounts: There may be limits on the amount of money you can send or receive which can be a concern for users with larger transfer needs.InstaremBased out of Singapore since 2014, Instarem makes money transfers easy, quick, and reliable for everyone who needs to send or receive money. One of the top picks for those looking to transfer money from the US to India at an affordable rate.Upsides:Competitive Exchange Rates: They offer competitive exchange rates, which means you get more money in your recipient's currency compared to other providers.Low Fees: They charge low fees for their services, which can save you money on your international transfers. (Anywhere between 0.25% to 1% in fees).No Hidden Charges: Unlike some of its competitors, Instarem has no hidden fees or charges, so you can be sure of the total cost of your transfer upfront.Fast Transfer Times: Offers fast transfer times, with some transfers arriving within minutes or hours, depending on the recipient country and payment method.Reward Points: You earn 25 InstaPoints when you sign up. Earn an additional 100 InstaPoints when you complete your e-verification in the first 36 hours after you sign up. You can redeem these points in your next transfer.Downsides:Only Allow Bank-to-Bank Transfers: Instarem supports only bank-to-bank transfers, and alternative methods such as bill payments, cash-pickup, and mobile top-up options are not available.Transfer Limits: There may be limits on the amount of money you can send or receive, which may be not ideal for larger transfers.SBICSBIC or State Bank of India-California is a branch of the State Bank of India (SBI) located in California, USA. It provides various banking and financial services to individuals, businesses, and the Indian community in California.Upsides:Indian Diaspora Services: SBIC caters to the needs of the Indian diaspora in the US, offering services and solutions tailored to this community, such as NRI accounts and remittances.Fee-Free Online Bank Transfers: With SBIC’s remittance service, you can transfer directly to any bank in India online at zero costs within a few hours.Competitive USD to INR Exchange Rates: The exchange rates are subject to change and can vary based on the transfer amount and transfer method. For example, tiered exchange rates for in-branch transfers mean the higher the transfer amount, the higher the exchange rate.Downsides:Limited Coverage: The physical presence of SBI California is limited to a few locations in California, which can be inconvenient for customers outside those areas.Limited Currency Options: SBI California primarily deals in Indian Rupees (INR) and may have limited currency exchange options for other currencies, which may not be suitable for all customers.Time Zone Differences: Time zone differences between California and India can result in delays in customer support and transaction processing during certain hours.ICICIICIC Bank is India's largest private-sector bank. The bank launched Money2India, an online remittance service to facilitate money transfers to India from countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Singapore, and UAE at some of the best exchange rates available in the market.Money2India was founded with the aim to cater to Non-resident Indians sending money to India.Upsides:Well-Established Institution: ICICI Bank is a reputable and well-established financial institution, which can instill confidence in customers regarding the security of their funds and transactions.Hassle-free Bank Account Transfer: One of the best options to send money to a quick transfer to an Indian bank account.Competitive Exchange Rates: ICICI Bank offers competitive exchange rates, especially for larger transfer amounts.Accessible to Non-ICICI Customers: Sign-up is open to everybody and not restricted to ICICI Bank customers.Quick Pay Feature: Repeat a transaction in only 3 clicks. Set up recurring transfers or schedule a transfer for the future, minimizing your hassle.Downsides:Complex Transfer Fee Structure: There isn’t a way to estimate your transfer fee until right before you confirm your transfer. Not Ideal for Small Transfers: The less money you transfer, the poorer the exchange rate you get in comparison to if you are sending a large sum of money. WorldRemitWorldRemit is a leading digital money transfer provider that lets you send money to all states and Union territories in India from the U.S.WorldRemit is a low-cost alternative to other high-street bank transfers. It is also one of the fastest ways to send money abroad.Upsides:Multiple Sending Options: Users can choose from various sending options, including bank transfers, cash pickup, mobile money, airtime top-ups, and more. This flexibility allows you to tailor your transfers to the recipient's needs.Lower Transfer Fees: Charges lower transfer fees than other similar money transfer companies.Transparent Fees: It is known for its transparent fee structure, with clear and upfront information about the charges involved in a money transfer.Fee-Free Transfers Offer: The first 3 transfers for new customers are free of cost.Speed: Many transfers are completed within minutes, especially if using services like mobile money or cash pickup. This can be crucial in emergency situations.Downsides:Inconsistent Transfer Fees: Costs include transfer fees and a markup on the exchange rate, and can vary depending on the delivery method you choose - which can get expensive.Transfer Limits: WorldRemit imposes certain transfer limits, which vary depending on the destination country.Limited Delivery Options: All delivery methods are not available in all locations. This can be a drawback for users who prefer a specific delivery method.PlacidPlacid Express was established over two decades ago and offers international payment services to a range of countries in Europe and Asia including India. Placid offers easy and economical cross-border money transfers because of its direct partnerships with a number of banks and financial institutions.Upsides:Competitive Rates: Placid offers competitive exchange rates, which can result in cost savings for users compared to traditional banks.Low Fees: Placid's fees for money transfers are lower than those charged by traditional banks and some other online transfer services, making it a cost-effective choice.Fast Transfers: Many Placid transfers are processed swiftly. For direct bank account transfers, it can take 3 business days. If you pay with a card, the money gets delivered in as little as 10 minutes in some cases.SpotCash! Service: This service allows your recipient to collect the payment in local cash from an agent.Downsides:Fees: The transfer costs for card payments are fairly high.Limited Coverage: Placid may not be available in all countries, so the range of countries you can money is limited.Potential Transfer Delays: A few things could slow down the transaction, like the recipient's bank's processing time or the delays caused by the intermediary bank.Transfer Limits: Placid has limits on the amount of money that can be sent within specific time frames. This can be inconvenient for people or businesses with large transaction needs.User-Friendly Interface: Some people have noted that Placid’s website is not the most user-friendly, especially for those not familiar with online remittances. ConclusionSending money to India from the US doesn't have to be a costly endeavor. With the right approach and using the various options available for cheap money transfers, you can save both time and money when you send money to India from USA.Whether you're supporting your family back in India, making investments, or simply need to transfer funds for any reason, the key is to stay informed, explore your options, and choose the one that best suits your needs.You can make your international money transfers more affordable and efficient by comparing exchange rates and fees and considering digital remittance service providers.To find the best dollar-to-rupee rate, use CompareRemit for real-time USD to INR exchange rates from the best remittance providers to send money to India today!