The best ways to send money from Germany: a complete guide
Translated from the Arabic original. Read in Arabic
Sending money to family is a regular part of life for many immigrants in Germany. The difference between one method and another can reach tens of euros per transfer, or hundreds a year. This guide does not promote any company; it explains how to compare for yourself and protect your money.
The three main methods
First, a traditional international bank transfer (SWIFT): available from any German bank, but often the slowest and most expensive for small and medium amounts, and the recipient needs a bank account. Second, specialised digital transfer services: they work through apps and websites, are usually faster and cheaper, and some allow cash pick-up or payment to a mobile wallet. Third, cash transfer networks with agents: they let you send and receive cash through offices in many places, which helps in countries where receiving by bank is difficult.
The hidden fee: the exchange-rate margin
The biggest mistake is comparing only the advertised fee. Most of the real cost hides in the exchange rate: the company gives you a worse rate than the real market rate and keeps the difference. A company advertising "zero fees" can actually be the most expensive. The right way to compare is simple: enter the same amount in euros with several services and compare the final amount your family will receive in their currency. The highest figure is the cheapest, whatever the advertised fee.
Things besides price
Speed: from minutes to several working days. How your family can receive the money: bank account, mobile wallet or cash. Limits: every service has maximums per transfer and per month because of anti-money-laundering rules, and may ask for proof of the source of funds for large amounts. Coverage: not every service serves every country, so check that your destination is covered before you sign up.
Safety first: avoid unlicensed transfers
In Germany, providing money transfer services requires a licence from the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) or a recognised European licence, and providing them without one is a criminal offence. Using unlicensed middlemen may look cheaper, but it exposes you to losing your money with no legal protection and can drag you into money-laundering investigations. Always use a licensed bank or company; you can check any company’s licence in BaFin’s database.
Practical tips
Send larger amounts less often if you can, because fixed fees take a bigger share of small transfers. Check the recipient’s full name and account number carefully before sending. Keep a receipt for every transfer. And never share a transfer code with anyone except the recipient.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Laws change, so check the official sources below or the competent authority for your situation. Found a mistake? Tell us.