Send Money to South Africa
Compare the cheapest and fastest ways to transfer money to South Africa. Real-time rates from top providers.
Calculate Transfer to South Africa
Popular Transfer Routes to South Africa
United States → South Africa
US to South Africa transfers
United Kingdom → South Africa
UK to South Africa transfers
Europe → South Africa
Europe to South Africa transfers
Delivery Options in South Africa
Bank Transfer
Direct to bank account
Cash Pickup
Collect cash at locations
Mobile Wallet
Digital wallet transfer
Sending Money to South Africa: Complete Guide
Sending money to South Africa has never been easier or more affordable. With multiple digital money transfer services competing for your business, you can now save significantly compared to traditional bank transfers while getting your money delivered faster.
This guide compares the best ways to send money to South Africa, including transfer fees, exchange rates, delivery times, and payment methods available.
Best Ways to Send Money to South Africa
The most cost-effective and reliable ways to send money to South Africa include:
- Wise (formerly TransferWise): Best overall for mid-market exchange rates and transparent fees
- Remitly: Excellent for cash pickup and mobile wallet deliveries
- WorldRemit: Strong presence in developing countries with multiple delivery options
- Western Union: Largest global network for cash pickup locations
South Africa Money Transfer Regulations
When sending money to South Africa, you should be aware of local financial regulations and requirements. Most transfers require recipient identification and may have limits on the amount that can be received without additional documentation.
Always ensure you're using licensed and regulated money transfer services to protect your funds and comply with international anti-money laundering laws.
Tips for Sending Money to South Africa
- Compare total costs, not just transfer fees - exchange rate markups can be significant
- Consider delivery method - bank transfers are usually cheapest, cash pickup fastest
- Send larger amounts less frequently to reduce per-transfer costs
- Set up rate alerts to transfer when exchange rates are favorable
- Always double-check recipient details before confirming the transfer
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to send money to South Africa?
Transfer times to South Africa typically range from 15 minutes to 2 hours depending on the provider and delivery method. Bank transfers are usually fastest, while cash pickup can be completed within minutes.
What's the cheapest way to send money to South Africa?
Digital money transfer services like Wise, Remitly, and WorldRemit are typically 70-90% cheaper than traditional banks. Compare our calculator above to find the best rate for your transfer amount.
Is it safe to send money to South Africa online?
Yes, all providers we recommend are licensed and regulated. Your money is protected by financial regulations and most transfers are completed securely through encrypted systems.
What information do I need to send money to South Africa?
You'll typically need the recipient's full name, address, phone number, and bank details (if sending to a bank). Some providers may require additional identification for larger amounts.
Are there limits on how much I can send to South Africa?
Transfer limits vary by provider and your verification level. Most providers allow transfers from $1 to $50,000+ per transaction, with higher limits available for verified customers.