There are around 1.5 million people of Indian origin and 1.1 million of Pakistan origin living in the UK. Most of them, send money back to the country of their origin (India and Pakistan) on a regular basis for different reasons. Most of them like to use money transfer services to send money to their loved ones back to their home country.
There are several reasons why people may prefer money transfer services over
traditional bank transfers for making international money transfers, like:
Faster Processing Times: Money transfer services typically offer faster processing times compared to traditional bank transfers, which can take several business days to complete. This can be important for people who need to send money quickly or in an emergency.
Lower Fees: Money transfer services may offer lower fees compared to traditional bank transfers, especially for small to medium-sized transactions. This can make them a more cost-effective option for some people.
Better Exchange Rates: Money transfer services may offer better exchange rates compared to traditional bank transfers, which can result in the recipient receiving more money.
More Convenient: Money transfer services are often more convenient to use compared to traditional bank transfers. They may offer mobile apps or online platforms, making it easy to send and receive money from anywhere at any time.
Accessible to Unbanked Populations: Money transfer services can be more accessible to people who don't have a bank account or who are underbanked. Some services may offer cash pickup options or mobile wallets, making it easy to receive money without a traditional bank account.
Well, the next question is which money transfer service you should use to make the international money transfer. Well, only you can decide that, but we can help you by giving the details of your top 10 money transfer options to transfer your money to India or Pakistan, in the most convenient way.
Here are the ten best options to send money from the UK to Pakistan & India:
TransferWise:
TransferWise is a popular and affordable option for international money transfers. They charge a small fee and use the mid-market exchange rate for currency conversions. They are now called “Wise” as they have renamed their service.
Here are some of the pros and cons of using TransferWise:
Pros:
Low fees: TransferWise charges low fees for its services, which can save users money compared to other money transfer services or banks.
Transparent pricing: TransferWise provides clear information on their fees and exchange rates, so you can see exactly what you’re paying for.
Fast and easy: Transfers with TransferWise are typically completed within 1-2 business days, and the platform is easy to use.
Competitive exchange rates: TransferWise uses the mid-market exchange rate, which is often better than the rates offered by banks or other services.
Multicurrency account: TransferWise allows you to hold and manage money in multiple currencies, which can be useful for frequent international transactions.
Cons:
Limited payout options: TransferWise only allows bank transfers and mobile wallet payments, which may not be ideal for some users.
No cash pickup: TransferWise does not offer cash pickup services, so recipients must have a bank account or mobile wallet to receive funds.
Limited customer support: TransferWise provides support via email and chat only, which may not be as convenient as phone support.
Some countries are not supported: TransferWise may not be available in all countries, which can limit its usefulness for some users.
Transfer limits: TransferWise has daily and monthly transfer limits, which can be a drawback for users who need to send larger amounts of money.
Transfer Limit: Recently in March 2023, they have limited the transfer to only £30 per transaction. We are not sure if this is permanent or temporary.
Overall, TransferWise is a popular and reliable service for international money transfers with low fees, transparent pricing, and competitive exchange rates. However, its limited payout options and customer support, as well as transfer limits and country availability, may not make it the best choice for all users.
WorldRemit:
WorldRemit offers fast and secure money transfers to Pakistan & India. They offer a variety of payment methods and have low fees. WorldRemit is a popular online money transfer service that allows users to send and receive money internationally. Here are some of the pros and cons of using WorldRemit:
Pros:
Low fees: WorldRemit charges low fees for its services, which can save users money compared to other money transfer services or banks.
Transparent pricing: WorldRemit provides clear information on their fees and exchange rates, so you can see exactly what you’re paying for.
Fast and easy: Transfers with WorldRemit are typically completed within minutes to a few hours, and the platform is easy to use.
Multiple payout options: WorldRemit offers a range of payout options, including bank transfers, cash pickup, and mobile wallet payments, which can be more convenient for some users.
Competitive exchange rates: WorldRemit uses the mid-market exchange rate, which is often better than the rates offered by banks or other services.
Cons:
Limited country coverage: WorldRemit may not be available in all countries, which can limit its usefulness for some users.
Transfer limits: WorldRemit has daily and monthly transfer limits, which can be a drawback for users who need to send larger amounts of money.
Customer support: WorldRemit's customer support is not available 24/7 and can only be reached via email or chat, which may not be as convenient as phone support.
Currency exchange limitations: WorldRemit does not offer currency exchanges for all currencies, which can be a limitation for some users.
No transfer cancellations: Once a transfer is initiated with WorldRemit, it cannot be canceled or refunded.
Sometimes, their website crashes and you cannot contact them via their website
Overall, WorldRemit is a popular and reliable service for international money transfers with low fees, transparent pricing, and multiple payout options. However, its limited country coverage, transfer limits, customer support, currency exchange limitations, and no transfer cancellations policy may not make it the best choice for all users.
Xendpay:
Xendpay allows you to send money to Pakistan & India without any transfer fees. They use the mid-market exchange rate for currency conversions. Xendpay is a UK-based online money transfer service that allows users to send and receive money internationally. Here are some of the pros and cons of using Xendpay:
Pros:
Low fees: Xendpay charges low fees for its services, which can save users money compared to other money transfer services or banks.
Transparent pricing: Xendpay provides clear information on their fees and exchange rates, so you can see exactly what you’re paying for.
Flexible payment options: Xendpay offers a range of payment options, including bank transfers, credit/debit card payments, and SOFORT payments, which can be more convenient for some users.
Competitive exchange rates: Xendpay uses the mid-market exchange rate, which is often better than the rates offered by banks or other services.
Option to pay what you want: Xendpay offers the option to pay what you want for their service, meaning users can choose to pay a little extra to support Xendpay's social mission of reducing poverty.
Cons:
Transfer limits: Xendpay has daily and monthly transfer limits, which can be a drawback for users who need to send larger amounts of money.
Currency exchange limitations: Xendpay does not offer currency exchanges for all currencies, which can be a limitation for some users.
Limited customer support: Xendpay's customer support is not available 24/7 and can only be reached via email or chat, which may not be as convenient as phone support.
Longer transfer times: Transfers with Xendpay can take up to 2-4 business days to complete, which may not be as fast as other services.
Limited country coverage: Xendpay may not be available in all countries, which can limit its usefulness for some users.
Overall, Xendpay is a low-cost and socially responsible money transfer service that offers flexible payment options and competitive exchange rates. However, its transfer limits, currency exchange limitations, limited customer support, longer transfer times, and limited country coverage may not make it the best choice for all users.
Azimo:
Azimo offers fast and affordable money transfers to Pakistan & India. They offer a variety of payment methods and have low fees. Azimo is a UK-based online money transfer service that allows users to send and receive money internationally. Here are some of the pros and cons of using Azimo:
Pros:
Low fees: Azimo charges low fees for its services, which can save users money compared to other money transfer services or banks.
Fast and easy: Transfers with Azimo are typically completed within minutes to a few hours, and the platform is easy to use.
Multiple payout options: Azimo offers a range of payout options, including bank transfers, cash pickup, and mobile wallet payments, which can be more convenient for some users.
Competitive exchange rates: Azimo uses the mid-market exchange rate, which is often better than the rates offered by banks or other services.
Global coverage: Azimo covers over 200 countries and territories, making it useful for sending money to a wide range of locations.
Cons:
Limited payment options: Azimo only accepts bank transfers, credit/debit card payments, and SOFORT payments, which may not be as convenient for some users.
Transfer limits: Azimo has daily and monthly transfer limits, which can be a drawback for users who need to send larger amounts of money.
Currency exchange limitations: Azimo does not offer currency exchanges for all currencies, which can be a limitation for some users.
Limited customer support: Azimo's customer support is not available 24/7 and can only be reached via email or chat, which may not be as convenient as phone support.
Higher fees for cash pickups: Azimo charges higher fees for cash pickups compared to other payout options, which can make it less attractive for users who prefer this option.
Overall, Azimo is a fast and affordable money transfer service with global coverage and multiple payout options. However, its limited payment options, transfer limits, currency exchange limitations, limited customer support, and higher fees for cash pickups may not make it the best choice for all users.
Western Union:
Western Union is a popular choice for international money transfers. They have a large network of agents in Pakistan & India and offer a variety of payment options. Western Union is one of the largest and oldest money transfer services in the world. Here are some of the pros and cons of using Western Union:
Pros:
Global network: Western Union has a massive global network of over 550,000 agent locations in over 200 countries and territories, making it one of the most accessible money transfer services.
Fast transfers: Transfers with Western Union can be completed within minutes, depending on the payout method chosen.
Multiple payout options: Western Union offers a range of payout options, including bank transfers, cash pickup, and mobile wallet payments, which can be more convenient for some users.
24/7 customer support: Western Union offers 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and chat, which can be useful in case of any issues or questions.
Loyalty program: Western Union has a loyalty program that allows users to earn points for every transfer and redeem them for discounts on future transfers.
Cons:
Higher fees: Western Union's fees can be higher than other money transfer services, especially for smaller transfers and certain payout options.
Poor exchange rates: Western Union often offer poor exchange rates compared to the mid-market rate, which can result in users receiving less money.
Limited transparency: Western Union's fees and exchange rates are not always transparent, and users may need to do some research to determine the true cost of a transfer.
Security concerns: Western Union has been used in the past for fraud and scams, and users should exercise caution when sending money to unknown recipients.
Restrictions on some countries: Western Union may not be available in certain countries or may have restrictions on transfers to certain countries.
Overall, Western Union's massive global network and fast transfers make it a popular choice for many users. However, its higher fees, poor exchange rates, limited transparency, security concerns, and restrictions in some countries may not make it the best choice for all users.
MoneyGram:
MoneyGram is another popular option for international money transfers. They have a large network of agents in Pakistan & India and offer a variety of payment options. MoneyGram is another popular money transfer service that operates in over 200 countries and territories worldwide. Here are some of the pros and cons of using MoneyGram:
Pros:
Global network: MoneyGram has a large global network of over 350,000 agent locations in over 200 countries and territories, making it widely accessible.
Fast transfers: Transfers with MoneyGram can be completed within minutes, depending on the payout method chosen.
Multiple payout options: MoneyGram offers a range of payout options, including bank transfers, cash pickup, and mobile wallet payments, which can be more convenient for some users.
Rewards program: MoneyGram has a rewards program that allows users to earn points for every transfer and redeem them for discounts on future transfers.
24/7 customer support: MoneyGram offers 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and chat, which can be useful in case of any issues or questions.
Cons:
Higher fees: MoneyGram's fees can be higher than other money transfer services, especially for smaller transfers and certain payout options.
Poor exchange rates: MoneyGram often offers poor exchange rates compared to the mid-market rate, which can result in users receiving less money.
Limited transparency: MoneyGram's fees and exchange rates are not always transparent, and users may need to do some research to determine the true cost of a transfer.
Security concerns: MoneyGram has been used in the past for fraud and scams, and users should exercise caution when sending money to unknown recipients.
Restrictions on some countries: MoneyGram may not be available in certain countries or may have restrictions on transfers to certain countries.
Overall, MoneyGram's global network and fast transfers make it a popular choice for many users. However, its higher fees, poor exchange rates, limited transparency, security concerns, and restrictions in some countries may not make it the best choice for all users.
PayPal:
PayPal allows you to send money to Pakistan & India from your account balance or a linked bank account. They charge a small fee for currency conversions. PayPal is a widely-used digital payment platform that allows users to send and receive money online. Here are some of the pros and cons of using PayPal as a money transfer service:
Pros:
Easy to use: PayPal is user-friendly and easy to set up, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Multiple payment options: PayPal offers multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers, giving users flexibility in how they choose to pay.
Wide availability: PayPal is available in over 200 countries and territories, making it widely accessible.
Buyer protection: PayPal offers buyer protection, which can provide peace of mind for users making purchases online.
No fees for sending money within the same country: Sending money to someone in the same country as you are free with PayPal, as long as you're not using a credit card to fund the payment.
Cons:
Fees for international transfers: PayPal charges fees for international transfers, and the fees can be higher than other money transfer services.
Poor exchange rates: Like other money transfer services, PayPal often offers poor exchange rates compared to the mid-market rate, which can result in users receiving less money.
Funds can be held: PayPal may hold funds for a period of time if there is suspicion of fraud or other issues, which can be frustrating for users.
Limited customer support: PayPal's customer support can be limited, and some users have reported difficulty getting help with issues.
Security concerns: Like other online payment platforms, PayPal can be vulnerable to hacking and other security breaches.
Overall, PayPal's ease of use and wide availability make it a popular choice for many users. However, its fees for international transfers, poor exchange rates, the potential for funds to be held, limited customer support, and security concerns may not make it the best choice for all users.
Skrill:
Skrill is a digital wallet that allows you to send money to Pakistan & India. They charge a small fee for currency conversions. Skrill is a digital payment platform that allows users to send and receive money online. Here are some of the pros and cons of using Skrill as a money transfer service:
Pros:
Easy to use: Skrill is user-friendly and easy to set up, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Multiple payment options: Skrill offers multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers, giving users flexibility in how they choose to pay.
Wide availability: Skrill is available in over 200 countries and territories, making it widely accessible.
Low fees: Skrill's fees are generally lower than other money transfer services, especially for international transfers.
Instant transfers: Skrill offers instant transfers for some payment methods, allowing users to receive their funds quickly.
Cons:
Poor exchange rates: Like other money transfer services, Skrill often offers poor exchange rates compared to the mid-market rate, which can result in users receiving less money.
Fees for certain transactions: Skrill charges fees for some transactions, such as currency conversion and withdrawals.
Funds can be held: Skrill may hold funds for a period of time if there is suspicion of fraud or other issues, which can be frustrating for users.
Limited customer support: Skrill's customer support can be limited, and some users have reported difficulty getting help with issues.
Security concerns: Like other online payment platforms, Skrill can be vulnerable to hacking and other security breaches.
Overall, Skrill's low fees and wide availability make it a popular choice for many users. However, its poor exchange rates, the potential for funds to be held, limited customer support, and security concerns may not make it the best choice for all users.
Ria Money Transfer:
Ria Money Transfer offers fast and affordable money transfers to Pakistan & India. They have a large network of agents in Pakistan & India and offer a variety of payment options. Ria Money Transfer is a money transfer service that allows users to send and receive money online. Here are some of the pros and cons of using Ria Money Transfer as a money transfer service:
Pros:
Easy to use: Ria Money Transfer is user-friendly and easy to set up, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Multiple payment options: Ria Money Transfer offers multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers, giving users flexibility in how they choose to pay.
Wide availability: Ria Money Transfer is available in over 160 countries and territories, making it widely accessible.
Competitive exchange rates: Ria Money Transfer offers competitive exchange rates compared to other money transfer services, which can result in users receiving more money.
No fees for some transactions: Ria Money Transfer does not charge fees for some transactions, such as sending money to a bank account.
Cons:
Limited availability in some countries: Ria Money Transfer may not be available in some countries, which can limit its usefulness for some users.
Fees for some transactions: Ria Money Transfer charges fees for some transactions, such as currency conversion and withdrawals.
Funds can be held: Ria Money Transfer may hold funds for a period of time if there is suspicion of fraud or other issues, which can be frustrating for users.
Limited customer support: Ria Money Transfer's customer support can be limited, and some users have reported difficulty getting help with issues.
Longer transfer times: Ria Money Transfer may take longer to transfer funds compared to other money transfer services, which can be a drawback for users who need to send money quickly.
Overall, Ria Money Transfer's competitive exchange rates and multiple payment options make it a popular choice for many users. However, its limited availability in some countries, fees for some transactions, the potential for funds to be held, limited customer support, and longer transfer times may not make it the best choice for all users.
Remitly:
Remitly allows you to send money to Pakistan & India quickly and securely. They offer a variety of payment options and have low fees. Remitly is a digital money transfer service that allows users to send and receive money online. Here are some of the pros and cons of using Remitly as a money transfer service:
Pros:
Easy to use: Remitly is user-friendly and easy to set up, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Multiple payment options: Remitly offers multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers, giving users flexibility in how they choose to pay.
Competitive exchange rates: Remitly offers competitive exchange rates compared to other money transfer services, which can result in users receiving more money.
Wide availability: Remitly is available in over 50 countries and territories, making it widely accessible.
Fast transfers: Remitly offers fast transfers for some payment methods, allowing users to receive their funds quickly.
Cons:
Fees for some transactions: Remitly charges fees for some transactions, such as currency conversion and withdrawals.
Limited customer support: Remitly's customer support can be limited, and some users have reported difficulty getting help with issues.
Limits on transfer amounts: Remitly may have limits on how much users can transfer, which can be a drawback for users who need to send large amounts of money.
Funds can be held: Remitly may hold funds for a period of time if there is suspicion of fraud or other issues, which can be frustrating for users.
Limited payment options: Remitly's payment options may be limited in some countries, which can limit its usefulness for some users.
Overall, Remitly's competitive exchange rates, fast transfers, and multiple payment options make it a popular choice for many users. However, its fees for some transactions, the potential for funds to be held, limited customer support, limits on transfer amounts, and limited payment options may not make it the best choice for all users.
So How You Should Choose the Best "Money Transfer Services" For Making International Money Transfers?
Choosing the best money transfer service for making international money transfers can be a daunting task, given the multitude of options available. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a money transfer service:
Fees: Look for a service that offers competitive fees, as some services may charge high fees for certain transactions or payment methods.
Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates offered by different services, as small differences in exchange rates can make a significant impact on the amount received by the recipient.
Speed: Consider how quickly the money transfer service can deliver funds to the recipient. Some services may offer instant transfers, while others may take several business days.
Payment Methods: Look for a service that offers payment methods that are convenient for you, such as credit/debit cards or bank transfers.
Availability: Check if the money transfer service is available in the countries where you need to send money and if the service has a good reputation in those countries.
Customer Support: Look for a service that offers reliable and responsive customer support, as this can be important if you encounter issues with your transfer.
Security: Check if the money transfer service has strong security measures in place to protect your financial information and prevent fraud.
Reviews and Ratings: Read online reviews and ratings from other users to get a sense of the service's reliability, ease of use, and overall customer satisfaction.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about which money transfer service is best suited to your needs. It's worth noting that what's best for one person may not be the best for another, so it's important to choose a service that aligns with your unique circumstances and priorities.