Receiving money from abroad has never been easier, but it's important to know the options available, their costs, speed and security. If you're wondering How can you transfer money to me from abroad, here you will find all the updated answers and recommendations.
In addition to traditional methods, Platforms like Return are revolutionizing money transfer, offering a fast, transparent and accessible experience for those who want to send money to their loved ones.
Table of Contents
- Quick Overview: Ways to Receive Money from Overseas
- 1. International bank transfer
- 2. Online money transfer services
- 3. Cryptocurrencies as a transfer alternative
- 4. Mobile apps and digital wallets (includes Retorna)
- 5. Cash through specialized companies
- Tips for receiving money from abroad without problems
- FAQs
- Conclusion: What's the best way to receive money from abroad?
Quick overview: ways to receive money from abroad
These are the 5 main ways to receive money from another country:
- International bank transfer
- Digital platforms such as Wise, PayPal or Retorna
- Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT)
- Mobile apps with digital wallets
- Cash through agencies such as Western Union
Each method has different characteristics. The choice will depend on the urgency, the issuing country, the commission and if you have a bank account or not.
1. International bank transfer
This is the most traditional method. The money is sent from an overseas bank to your local bank account.
Requirements:
- Receiver's full name.
- Account number (IBAN if applicable).
- Bank SWIFT/BIC code.
- Address and country of the recipient.
Advantages:
- Safe and reliable.
- Ideal for large amounts.
- Support from renowned banks.
Disadvantages:
- High commissions (between $15 and $50 USD).
- Waiting time: 2 to 5 business days
- Currency conversion with surcharges.
Advice: Before receiving a transfer, check with your bank if you can open an account in dollars or euros to avoid unnecessary conversion charges.
2. Online money transfer services
Platforms such as Wise, PayPal, Xoom or Revolut allow you to send and receive money internationally without traditional banking intermediaries.
Advantages:
- Lower fees than banks
- Automatic currency conversion
- Faster shipping (in some cases, minutes)
Disadvantages:
- Requires registration on the platform
- Not always available in all countries
How Wise works (https://wise.com/co/blog/wise-colombia)
3. Cryptocurrencies as a transfer alternative
Cryptocurrencies allow you to send money globally without going through banks or financial institutions.
Popular examples:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Tether (USDT)
Advantages:
- Instant shipping or in a few minutes
- Very low fees
- You don't need a bank account
Disadvantages:
- Market volatility
- Requires technical knowledge
- It's not easy to convert to cash in every country
Learn more: https://academy.binance.com/es/articles/what-is-bitcoin
4. Mobile apps and digital wallets
This is one of the most modern and convenient methods. It allows you to receive money directly to your cell phone, bank account or digital wallet.
Return
Return is a digital platform that allows you to send money from Chile, Colombia, the European Union and more, to countries such as Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina and Peru.
Why use Retorna?
- Fast shipping, many in less than 1 hour
- Low commissions and fair exchange rate
- 24/7 support by Whatsa
- Secure and regulatory-compliant platform.
“With Retorna, sending money to your loved ones is as easy as sending a text message.”
Learn what it is and how it works: https://www.retorna.app/es/blog/post/que-es-retorna-app
Other popular apps:
- Remitly
- WorldRemit
- Paysend
- Western Union app
Advantages:
- Fast, safe and easy to use.
- You can choose the method of receipt (account, wallet or cash).
- Customer support available.
5. Cash through specialized companies
If you don't have a bank account or access to apps, you can receive cash at authorized agencies.
Well-known companies:
- Western Union
- MoneyGram
- RIA Money Transfer
How does it work?
The issuer sends money from abroad and you pick it up with your identification at a local branch.
Advantages:
- You don't need a bank account
- Extensive office network
- Money available almost instantly
Disadvantages:
- Higher commissions
- Need to mobilize to a physical point
- Shipping limits in some countries
Tips for receiving money from abroad without problems
- Always check that the service is authorized in your country.
- Compare fees and exchange rates before accepting a shipment.
- Don't share your banking information on social media.
- Check with your bank if they charge for receiving international transfers.
- Choose reputable platforms such as Wise, Retorna, or Remitly.
FAQs
What is the fastest way to receive money from abroad?
Mobile apps like Retorna, Remitly or WorldRemit allow you to receive money in minutes, even in local bank accounts.
Can you receive money without having a bank account?
Yes You can use services such as Western Union or Return, which allow cash withdrawal or reception in digital wallets.
What information does the person sending me money need?
It depends on the method, but it usually requires:
- Your full name
- Your account or identification number
- The destination country
- Receipt method (account, wallet, cash)
Conclusion: What's the best way to receive money from abroad?
It depends on your needs, but here's a summary:
- Are you looking for speed? → Use Return or Remitly
- Do I want to pay less fees? → Choose Wise
- Don't I have a bank account? → Opt for Western Union or Return
- Do I use cryptocurrency? → Receive via USDT or Bitcoin
Today, thanks to reliable platforms such as Return, receiving money from abroad is easier, faster and cheaper. Take a few minutes to choose the method that works best for you.
Tu dinero llegará en un parpadeo
Con Retorna, tus envíos llegan en minutos.
Tan fácil como enviar un mensaje por WhatsApp. Haz tu envío en pocos clics y tu dinero llegará rápido, seguro y sin complicaciones.
