If you’re working in Canada and supporting loved ones in another country, sending money overseas is a meaningful way to stay connected. But how long does it actually take for the money to arrive?

Several factors influence the delivery time of an international money transfer. These include:

• How the money is sent
• Where you’re sending it to
• How the recipient plans to receive it

Understanding these factors can help you choose the method that works best for your needs.

How Can I Send Money Abroad?

There are three common methods to transfer money internationally from Canada:

1. Digitally, through services or apps
2. Through a bank transfer
3. Via mail

Here’s a closer look at each option.

Digital Transfers

Using a digital money transfer service or app is often the fastest way to send money internationally. Services like Remitly allow you to send funds easily and securely, with low fees.

With Remitly, the delivery can be incredibly quick depending on the destination. You can select the country you’re sending money to and view the available delivery speeds and fees.

Bank Transfers

Bank transfers are another popular method. Some banks in Canada provide international wire transfer services through their online banking platforms or at the branch. However, the delivery times can vary. Processing times at the sending and receiving banks may result in delays, and additional fees could be higher compared to digital transfer services.

Mailing Money

Sending money through the mail, such as via international money orders, is generally the slowest and least recommended option. You have to factor in postal delivery times, which can be affected by weather, weekends, or holidays. Safety is also a significant concern, as mailing cash or money orders can be less secure and harder to track.

Which Method Is the Fastest?

Digital money transfers tend to be the fastest and most reliable option. Because the process is done online, funds can often be delivered quickly. Services like Remitly allow for automatic currency conversion at competitive exchange rates, helping you save time and money.

Depending on the country, your recipient could receive the money in just minutes.

Different Ways Canadians Can Send Money

There are several ways to facilitate an international money transfer, depending on your preferences and the recipient’s needs.

1. Money Transfer Services

A money transfer service or app lets you create an account and use a Canadian debit or credit card to send money. These services are often user-friendly and flexible, providing quick access to funds at the destination.

2. Mobile Wallets

If you or your recipient have a mobile wallet, this can be another convenient option for a digital transfer. With platforms like Remitly, you can send funds directly to a mobile wallet, enabling the recipient to use the money instantly or transfer it into a bank account.

3. Bank Transfers

For those who prefer banking services, you can transfer money using your Canadian bank. This might involve an international wire transfer, for which you’ll need the recipient’s bank account details. Alternatively, you can use a money transfer app to directly deposit funds into the recipient’s account for added convenience.

Processing times and fees depend on your bank. Keep in mind that some banks may require in-person verification at a branch for international transfers.

4. International Money Orders

If physical delivery is necessary, you can purchase an international money order from your local post office or bank in Canada. These documents can be cashed by the recipient in their country, but the process requires postal delivery and may take significantly longer.

Delivery Times Depend on the Destination

The amount of time it takes for a money transfer to reach its destination depends largely on the country receiving the funds. Some methods, like digital transfers through apps, offer estimated delivery times you can view before sending the money.

When sending money through a bank or mailing an international money order, be sure to account for differences in time zones, local bank hours, and holidays in the recipient’s country.

For reliable and fast money transfers internationally, a digital service like Remitly is often the safest and most efficient option. Explore your options to find the method that works best for you and your recipients.

FAQ: Sending Money Abroad from Canada

What are the different ways to send money internationally from Canada?

You can send money abroad using one of these methods:

1. Digital transfers through money transfer services or apps.
2. Bank transfers via your Canadian bank or a transfer app.
3. Mailing money using international money orders.

Digital transfers are often the fastest and most convenient option.

How long does an international money transfer take?

The delivery time depends on the method and destination:

• Digital transfers can be instant or take a few hours.
• Bank transfers may take several business days, influenced by the processing times of the sending and receiving banks.
• Mailing money, such as an international money order, is the slowest method and can take several days to weeks.

For exact times, a digital service like Remitly provides options based on the destination.

Which is the fastest method to send money from Canada?

Digital transfers via money transfer services or apps are typically the fastest. Services like Remitly allow recipients to receive funds in minutes, depending on the destination and payment method.

Are there fees for sending money abroad?

Yes, fees vary by transfer method:

• Digital transfer services often have lower fees and competitive exchange rates.
• Banks may charge higher fees for international transfers.
• Mailing money can include costs for purchasing an international money order and postage.

Using a money transfer app is usually more cost-effective.

How can I ensure my money transfer is safe?

To keep your funds secure:

1. Use reputable services like Remitly, known for reliable and trackable transfers.
2. Avoid mailing cash, as it’s harder to track and less secure.
3. Verify all recipient details to prevent delays or errors.

What details are needed for a money transfer?

It depends on the method:

• Digital transfers and mobile wallets require the recipient’s name and account or wallet details.
• Bank transfers need additional information, such as the recipient’s bank account number, bank branch or SWIFT code, and country.