Guide To International Wire Transfer Limits| CompareRemit
USD INR ₹ 84.00
GBP INR ₹ 101.81
CAD INR ₹ 61.28
Articles

Are There Limits on International Wire Transfers?

Updated on July 28, 2022 03:12 pm
Green Bank Wire Transfer Button

An international wire transfer is the best option if you ever want to send or receive big sums of money over an international border fast. Due to their high transfer limits, they are frequently used to make large payments like paying business invoices or sending money to family members who live abroad.

You most likely would have looked up wire transfer limits imposed by your bank, money transfer service providers, or any other central agencies like the IRS (Internal Revenue Service).

In this article, we cover what is a wire transfer, the wire transfer limits placed by major U.S. banks and money transfer companies that offer high transmit limits on international money transfers, and other topics. 

What Is a Wire Transfer?

Wire transfer is an electronic transfer of funds from one bank account to another bank account. There is no physical exchange of funds. The sender provides all the instructions for the transfer, which include the recipient’s name, bank, account number, and routing number to carry out the process of wire transfers.

It can be done in person or online, which is often the most convenient. 

Wire transfers are commonly used for both domestic and international transfers. 

In an international wire transfer, there is an electronic transfer of funds from one country’s bank account to another country’s bank account.

How To Do A Wire Transfer?

The Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial (SWIFT) handles the majority of international wire transactions using a SWIFT or BIC (Bank Identifier Code).

Banks send and receive messages using the SWIFT messaging system to coordinate international money transfers. The SWIFT network consists of around 11,000 member banks across 200 countries and territories.

Read more on how SWIFT Code works

For international wire transfers, the following information is generally needed:

  • Recipient’s name and address 
  • Recipient’s bank name and address
  • SWIFT or BIC code 

Wire transfers are not limited to banks. Non-bank money transfer provider also provides international wire transfers to individuals. Such as Wise, Revolut, XE money transfers, etc. 

Wire Transfer Fee

Although conventional banks are frequently used to send money abroad, it is not recommended. Money transfer specialists offer superior service with better exchange rates, quicker transfer times, reduced fees, and greater convenience.

To generate a profit, the banks add a margin of 3-5% on top of the real exchange rate (rates on Google). Fees can also range depending on exchange rates. 

It can range from $10 to $50. Some banks can charge a fee for receiving international money transfers. Typically, both the sending and the receiving banks may charge a fee for wire transfers.

Additionally, if a third-party bank acts as an intermediary in a bank wire transfer between the sender's bank and the recipient's bank, the third-party bank will charge a fee. The cost can increase if there are more intermediary banks involved in a single transaction.

Is There A Wire Transfer Limit?

The IRS does not impose any transfer limits on international transfers but there are reporting requirements for transfers of $10,000 or more and for individual payments made over a short period of time that add up to exceed $10,000.

The banks or money transfer businesses, not the person making the transfer requests, are required to meet the reporting requirement.

However, banks and money transfer companies will have their wire transfer limits and requirements that you must abide by.

U.S. Banks Wire Transfer Limits

Many major banks in the US impose a per-day or per-transaction wire transfer limit.

The maximum amount you can send ultimately relies on the type of bank account you have and the specifics of your payment, such as the currency and the country you are sending your money to. 

For example, the Bank of America wire transfer limit for online transfers is $1000 per transaction for personal account holders and $5,000 per transaction for business account holders. The international wire transfer limit for in-branch transfers will be higher depending on your account type. 

Chase Bank's wire transfer limit is set at $100,000 for individuals but offers higher limits for businesses on request. It can vary depending on the account type. Generally, Chase Private Client and Chase Sapphire account holders have the highest limits. 

Wells Fargo wire transfer limit through Wells Fargo ExpressSend Service will vary depending on the destination country, the payout method, and the specific bank or transfer provider selected. The maximum transfer limit is $5,000. The online transfer limit is set by account type, but you can raise it on request by contacting them and providing further details if required. 

The Charles Schwab international wire transfer limit is $100,000 per day. 

How Long Does Wire Transfer Take?

Wire transfers typically happen on the same day. The money transfer happens immediately since it is being done manually and is being watched over by bank employees.

Domestic wire transfers are handled the same day and are finished in a short period of time.

International wire transfers are fast ways to send money which typically take 1 to 5 business days (depending on the recipient's location and other factors).

Since they must be processed to maintain legality and adhere to compliance regulations, they are not instantaneous. The verification process and security checks are time-consuming.  

ACH Vs Wire Transfers

Both ACH transfers and wire transfers are used to transfer money between bank accounts. However, there are significant distinctions between the two methods of money transfer.

ACH transfers take place through the Automated Clearing House Network. The Automated Clearing House Network is a system for sending money electronically between bank accounts all throughout the United States.

ACH transfers are often utilized for domestic transfers. However, international ACH transfers are starting to gain popularity. Remember that not all US banks provide international ACH transfers.

The amount you can send using the ACH network in a day, a single transaction, or a month is limited Depending on the bank, it may differ, but often it's $25,000. Some banks may have a relatively low restriction of $2,000 or may allow up to $10,000 each month. For many people and businesses who need to transfer bigger amounts of money abroad, this can be a problem.

This is where wire transfers are advantageous, as the transfer limit is way higher than ACH transfers for international money transfers.

Domestic ACH transfers can be quick. An international ACH transfer can take several business days to complete. Typically longer than most wire transfers. Whereas domestic wire transfers are executed virtually quickly.

The ability to automate bill payments and other routine monthly expenses is a great way to use ACH transfers to save time and money. They are usually free or very low cost. Hence, they are much cheaper than wire transfers.

With wire transfers, you have to be careful because once it is initiated, it is difficult to reverse the process.  You might not get your money back if you sent it to the wrong person or make a mistake in the recipient’s details.

Money Transfer Providers Wire Transfer Limits

The good news is that banks are not the only option for sending money overseas. Most often, money transfer specialists can transfer your money faster, with lower transaction fees and a better exchange rate than regular banks.

You can do wire transfers online or in their money transfer apps conveniently from anywhere and at any time.

Learn more about the best money transfer apps

Similar to banks, money transfer providers have their transfer limits.

Here are the wire transfer limits of some popular international money transfer service providers.

Money Transfer ProvidersWire Transfer Limits 
Wise

$1 million per local transaction. You can make multiple transfers throughout the same day.


 

$1.6 million per SWIFT transfer.


 

Limits can vary depending on the currencies you send to and from and the payment method.

XE Money Transfer 

You can transfer up to $500,000 or currency equivalent for online transfers only.


 

No transfer fees $500 and above.

Revolut 

No limits to the transfer amount for most currencies. 


 

There is a limit of 1 million Japanese Yen (JPY) equivalent per transfer to Japan. 

Remitly

You can send up to $60,000 after providing additional information.


 

The limit will vary based on the payout method or destination country.

Western UnionThe transfer limit for unverified accounts is $3,000 and for verified accounts is $50,000.
InstaremMaximum transfer limit up to $1 million
PaysendSend up to $10,000 per month upon providing additional information                                   

 

Takeaway

International wire transfers are the easiest option for sending large sums of money. Fortunately, there are a plethora of options for your every transfer needs. So, the best transfer type will vary depending on your needs. Compare your options before you send. 

While choosing your bank for international wire transfers for a larger amount may seem convenient and easy, but several money transfer specialists provide the same benefits with much lower fees and better exchange rates and are best suited for individuals looking for the service. 

 77124 views
Rate article:
(5.0)
 
 
Money Transfer FAQ's
Related Articles
Money from India to UK
Best Way For An NRI to Repatriate Money From India to UK

 When it comes to repatriating large sums of money from India, it puts every NRI in a situation where he has to consider different obligations regarding monetary cross-transfer. Taxation, reliability and transfer timelines are a few things that influence these decisions.Personal finances have to be dealt with delicately and ensured that there is no loss during the due process of remittances. There are various options available in the marketplace today, be it via traditional banking or the modern ways of online transfers.CompareRemit offers a platform that allows you to compare different players in the market and pick the best rates that suit your needs.Repatriation from an NRE AccountAs a component of the liberalization scheme of the Reserve Bank of India, remitting funds from India has become relatively easier. Balances in NRE (Non-Resident External) accounts are freely repatriable. No formalities or requisite permissions are required for remittances abroad be it any amount. Funds in accounts are usually funds deposited from abroad or current income like interest or dividends on investments made through foreign funds.Repatriation from an NRO accountBalances in NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) accounts are subject to certain conditions. The remittance of USD 1 million per financial year from NRO accounts is allowed subject to certain procedural formalities. NRO account balances include income earned locally or certain capital account transactions. Form 15-CA and 15-CB need to be submitted before a remittance can go through.Read more on difference between NRE and NRO account on CompareRemit.The Traditional Option - BanksThe most sought after choice for remittances to the UK are banks. Banks are the most popular means of transferring money to the UK because:There is a high level of trust owing to the various government regulations.Familiarity and the comfort of knowing the neighborhood-friendly banker.There are two ways one could remit funds using banking services:Online - If your bank has given you access to internet banking and allows repatriation through online instructions.In-Person - One could walk into the bank yourself and have the formalities completed there and then and have the satisfaction of seeing it to its destination with a receipt in your hand.However, it is important to note that INR to GBP/GBP to INR exchange rates may not always be competitive. The transfer fees can be high and the charges, not always transparent.Selection of Remittance Service ProviderShould you want to avoid remitting through banks, approaching a marketplace of money changers would be the next best option. A selection of remittance service providers should be made based on the following:- Transfer chargesSpeed of transferExchange ratesCharges on the conversion of currency (INR to GBP)Freeze option on exchange rate while process requirements are completedFlexibility of payment optionsAlternative Options for Remittance from India to UKWise - UK based transfer service supporters - Wise incorporates credit cards/debit cards, SWIFT, international transfers to bank accounts, domestic wire transfers and more. Wise offers competitive exchange rates for pound to rupee or rupee to pound conversions. It assures fast and low-cost online money transfers from India to the UK.ExTravelMoney - One of the easiest services for transferring funds from India to the UK, they also offer the facility of booking orders online.Western Union - In four easy steps available online and your money is sent from India to the UK. They offer competitive rates and faster transfers as well.Thomas Cook - Provides the best foreign exchange rates besides giving the assurance of secure and timely remittances for specific purposes.BookMyForex - With zero commission and zero charges, they claim to send money from India to the UK at guaranteed lowest exchange rates. The time span for the transfers to be effective is 12 to 48 hours.To select the right money transfer service one should keep the cost and time factors in mind. Convenience at a reasonable cost should be the mantra for selecting a suitable remittance service provider.

gbp and inr
How to Send Money from GBP to INR with PassTo

Sending money internationally is now easier than ever with the right service provider. PassTo is a convenient option for individuals in the UK who want to transfer money from GBP to INR and support their loved ones in India. In this article, we will guide you through the simple and efficient process of using PassTo for your international money transfer needs.Why Should You Choose PassTo?When it comes to international money transfers, PassTo is the clear choice for users in the UK. With their reliable and secure platform, PassTo ensures that your funds are transferred safely and efficiently.Here are some of the reasons why PassTo should be your top choice when sending money abroad:The first transfer is freeSpecial welcome exchange rates for new usersSend money to over 70 countries worldwide from the UKTransfer money in as little as a few minutes or same day/next business dayExcellent customer service via email, phone, or in-App chatSend up to £3,000 per day to most of our countriesSet up an account in just 2 minutesEarn a £50 gift through our rewards program when you invite 3 friends to make their first transfer of at least £200 eachPassTo is authorized and regulated by the FCANow that you understand why PassTo is the preferred option for sending money abroad, let's dive into the straightforward steps involved in initiating your first transfer from the UK to India.How to Send Money from the UK to India with PassToIn just a few simple steps, you'll be well on your way to sending money from the UK to India in no time. Step 1: Create an Account with PassToTo get started, visit the PassTo website (https://passto.co.uk) or download the PassTo mobile application from here and sign up for an account. Provide the necessary details and complete the registration process. Once your account is created, you'll gain access to PassTo's features and services.Step 2: Verify Your IdentityAs with any reputable money transfer service, PassTo requires you to verify your identity to comply with regulatory requirements. This step typically involves submitting valid identification documents, such as your passport or driver's license, and proof of address.Step 3: Choose a Payment MethodOnce you have successfully registered, you can proceed to choose a payment method from the options provided. PassTo allows you to select either your bank account, credit card, or debit card as the source of funds for the transfer.Step 4: Add a RecipientAfter verifying your identity, you can add a recipient to whom you wish to send money. Provide the recipient's details, including their full name, contact information, and bank account details in India and the details will be saved for future transfers . You also have the flexibility to choose how the recipient will receive the money. PassTo offers three options: bank deposit, mobile wallet credit, or cash pickup. You can select the most convenient option for your recipient.Step 5: Choose the Transfer Amount and CurrencySpecify the amount you wish to send in GBP and select the desired currency as INR. PassTo will display the current exchange rate and any applicable fees associated with the transfer. Take note of the exchange rate as it will impact the final amount your recipient will receive in Indian Rupees.Step 6: Review and ConfirmCarefully review all the details of the transfer, including the recipient's information, transfer amount, exchange rate, and fees. Double-check for any errors or discrepancies. If everything is accurate, proceed to confirm the transfer.Step 7: Track the TransferThroughout the process, PassTo keeps you informed and updated on the status of your transaction. You can conveniently track the progress of your transfer within the app itself or receive push notifications, ensuring that you are always aware of where the money is going and how long it is expected to take to reach its destination.Step 8: Money Delivered to the RecipientOnce PassTo processes the transfer, the money will be delivered to the recipient's bank account in India. The time it takes for the funds to reach the recipient may vary, but PassTo strives to offer quick and reliable transfers. It often can be delivered in as little as a few minutes!Sending money from GBP to INR can be a hassle-free experience with PassTo. By following the steps outlined above, you can take advantage of PassTo's user-friendly platform and robust services to securely transfer funds to India. With PassTo, you can ensure that your money reaches your loved ones in India conveniently and efficiently.

gbp to inr
GBP to INR 2023 Forecast

As with any other currency pair, the GBP to INR exchange rate fluctuates based on supply and demand on the international market.Inflation rates, interest rates, imports and exports, the political climate, and economic conditions are a few of the key factors that affect the fluctuation of currency values.Rate Increase by the Bank of England is Viewed as DovishEven though the Bank of England is expected to raise interest rates by 75 basis points, which would be the biggest increase since 1989, economists predict that policymakers will take a more dovish stance in the future as the likelihood of a recession rises. As U.K. inflation reached a 40-year high of 10.1% in September this year, the Bank is anticipated to increase its main lending rate for the 8th time in a row. However, slower growth momentum and a significant change in fiscal policy are expected to limit calls for further aggressive monetary tightening. The new prime minister, Rishi Sunak, dropped the controversial tax cuts at the centre of his predecessor Liz Truss' fiscal policy plan, so there is no longer a conflict between monetary and fiscal policy.The government's U-turns, which reduced market turbulence, mean that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank won't have to counter the additional inflationary impact of government policy as it considers the possibility of future weaker growth.In light of what is likely to be a less generous household and business energy cost assistance scheme under Sunak, Goldman Sachs economists on Monday downgraded their 2023 U.K. growth predictions from an annual rate of -1% to -1.4%.Following Liz Truss' dismal fiscal policy statements in late September, the pound hit a record low versus the dollar. However, with Sunak's appointment and his decision to keep the more moderate Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt, the pound has since recovered somewhat.Sending Money Overseas When sending money to a foreign country, you need to take the current exchange rate into consideration. Take, for instance, the case of sending money from the UK to India. When you send money to India at a time when the exchange rate is favourable, the amount of money that your recipient receives will be higher.Today’s GBP to INR exchange rate (as of November 27, 2022) is 98.7572 INR per 1 pound as per Pound Forecast.GBP to INR 2023 Forecast Monthly GBP to INR Forecast 2023 MonthOpenMin-Max in INRCloseAveragedJanuary 1 GBP/102.05 INR102.05-106.691GBP/105.11 INR103.98February1 GBP/105.11 INR101.99-105.111 GBP/103.54 INR103.94March1 GBP/103.54 INR98.92-103.541 GBP/100.43 INR101.61April1 GBP/101.09 INR99.43-102.451 GBP/100.94 INR100.81May1 GBP/92.09 INR97.53-100.941 GBP/99.02 INR99.61June1 GBP/99.02 INR99.02-102.421 GBP/100.91 INR100.34July1 GBP/100.91 INR96.41-100.911 GBP/97.88 INR99.03August1 GBP/97.88 INR94.93-97.881 GBP/96.38 INR96.77September1 GBP/96.38 INR95.97-98.891 GBP/97.43 INR97.17October 1 GBP/97.43 INR95.49-98.391 GBP/96.94 INR97.06November1 GBP/96.94 INR96.18-99.101 GBP/97.64 INR97.47December1 GBP/97.64 INR93.84-97.641 GBP/95.27 INR96.10Source: Pound ForecastEven though you can send money through your banks, this is not the best option for sending money abroad. The good news is that the market is flooded with companies specialising in money transfers.PassTo is one such company that offers money transfer services from the UK to several countries and could be your best option for transferring money from GBP to INR. It is a London-based money transfer app that was introduced in late 2019 to offer simple, affordable money transfer services that save time, effort, and money. It primarily targets expats living in the UK.Reasons to Choose PassToPassTo has a lot to offer when it comes to transferring money:Easy Sign-up processSend money to friends and family in over 60 countries worldwide, and expandingGet the best exchange ratesTransfer money with no hidden fees Get discounted pricing for new usersFree First 2 transfers  FCA regulated secure platformGet your money transferred in just a few minutes or same day/next business daySend Airtime Top-ups to 150+ countries in real-timeSend up to £2,000 per dayEarn money using PassTo Rewards ProgramMultiple payments and delivery methods24/7 customer service via email, phone, or in-App chatTrust score 4.6/5 stars on TrustPilotPassTo FeaturesTransparent Pricing and Competitive Exchange RatesPassTo fees are always shown upfront before you make your transfers. Do note that the fees will vary based on the destination country, the payment method, and the delivery method.PassTo uses an in-house algorithm that compares the exchange rates on behalf of its customers to provide the best exchange rates when sending money abroad. Even though there are several variables that affect the rates, you'll be able to view the best rates for the currency corridor you've chosen so that you can estimate how much money your recipient will receive.Faster Transfer PassTo can deliver your money in as little as a few minutes, making it one of the fastest transfer services available. For some countries, it can show up the same business day or the day after.Higher Sending LimitsYou can typically send up to £2,000 per day, £10,000 per month, and £50,000 annually. However, the limits will vary from country to country.Multiple Payment Options You can fund your transfers using debit cards, bank transfers, and credit cards.Multiple Delivery MethodsTransfer money to bank accounts, mobile wallets, Cash Pickup agents, and airtime top-ups. PassTo Rewards ProgramRefer your 3 friends to PassTo and earn a £50 gift when they make their first transfer of at least £200 each. Your friends will also get a £5 gift each. You can visit their website to learn more about their rewards program.How Do I Transfer Money Using PassTo?Here is a step-by-step guide to transferring money using PassTo:Download the PassTo app from the App Store or Google Play Store or visit their websiteSign Up & create an account Verify your account Set up your preferred payment method Enter details about your recipient Verify the transfer details Press Send!Track your transfer in the app itselfBy using PassTo, you can send money internationally with transparent fees, the best exchange rates, and a platform that is both safe and simple to use. Use PassTo to send money from the UK to India today!To compare all exchange rates, fees, and transfer speeds, use our online comparison tool for GBP to INR here.

Download the CompareRemit App
Download the CompareRemit App
Personalize your CompareRemit experience with your preferred corridor and receive target exchange rate notifications, seamless transitions to partner apps, and real-time comparisons of top remittance providers at your fingertips.
Personalize your CompareRemit experience with your preferred corridor and receive target exchange rate notifications, seamless transitions to partner apps, and real-time comparisons of top remittance providers at your fingertips.

Get Listed or Advertise

Download Our Free App

Try our faster, enhanced mobile app for a better experience

CompareRemit App