Top 5 Best International Money Transfer Apps in 2024

Transferring money internationally has become a necessity for many reasons. Whether you’re sending financial support to family and friends abroad, paying tuition fees, managing business transactions, or giving cash gifts during festive seasons like Christmas, finding the right platform to facilitate these transfers is essential.

The major challenge, however, lies in currency compatibility. For instance, a Nigerian bank account is typically designed to handle Naira transactions. So, how can you overcome this challenge and ensure seamless international transfers?

This article highlights the top five best international money transfer apps in 2024 and introduces alternative options like Ridima, which simplifies global transactions through gift cards and cryptocurrency.

What Is an International Money Transfer, and How Does It Work?

An international money transfer enables you to send funds across borders, allowing recipients to receive the money in their local currency. For example, someone earning in dollars can transfer funds to loved ones in Nigeria, where the recipient gets the equivalent value in Naira.

These transactions are facilitated by online money transfer apps that handle currency conversion automatically. Similar to banking apps, many of these platforms offer additional features such as scheduling payments, tracking transaction history, and verifying recipient details.

For added convenience, platforms like Ridima allow users to send money through gift cards and cryptocurrency, expanding the options for secure and swift transactions.

5 Best Online Money Transfer Apps in 2024

These apps were selected based on low fees, fast transaction times, and user-friendly services. Here are the top five international money transfer apps for hassle-free transactions:

1. Wise (Formerly TransferWise)

Wise is renowned for its real-time exchange rates and transparent fee structure. The app supports transfers to over 70 countries and offers a seamless user experience.

Key Features:
- No hidden fees.
- Converts funds directly into the recipient’s local currency.
- Transfers typically take minutes to two days.
Pros:
- Low-cost transfers.
- Intuitive user interface.
Cons:
- Delays may occur in some transactions.
- No cash pickup option.

2. Western Union

A veteran in the money transfer space, Western Union is trusted worldwide for its extensive reach and diverse service options, including cash pickups for recipients.

Key Features:
- Supports app, web, and agent-assisted transfers.
- Available in numerous countries, including Nigeria.
Pros:
- Reliable and widely accessible.
- Cash pickup option is convenient for non-tech-savvy users.
Cons:
- High exchange rates.

3. Revolut

Revolut combines banking and international transfers into one platform, offering competitive rates and unique features like bill splitting and currency exchange.

Key Features:
- Instant transfers to other Revolut users.
- Supports sending funds to non-users at low costs.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use app.
- Offers additional services like currency exchange.
Cons:
- Limited to Europe and America.
- Transfer limits apply.

4. WorldRemit

WorldRemit serves over 130 countries with diverse delivery options such as bank deposits, cash pickups, and mobile wallets. It’s a dependable choice for international transfers.

Key Features:
- Quick transfers with large transaction limits.
- Multiple delivery methods.
Pros:
- Available in a wide range of countries.
- Flexible delivery options.
Cons:
- High exchange rate fees.

5. Remitly

Remitly offers affordable rates and various delivery options, including express transfers. It’s ideal for sending funds to recipients’ bank accounts or for cash pickups.

Key Features:
- Transfers via bank account, mobile wallet, or cash pickup.
- Express delivery ensures swift transactions.
Pros:
- Fast and efficient service.
- Multiple transfer methods.
Cons:
- Standard transfers may take up to five days.

Alternative Ways to Send Money Internationally

1. Gift Cards

Gift cards are a unique way to send money. You can purchase gift cards and share them with recipients, who can then trade them for cash. Using a platform like Ridima, recipients can redeem gift cards instantly at competitive rates.

2. Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies offer a fast, anonymous, and limit-free way to transfer money. However, the challenge lies in choosing a reliable platform to convert crypto into cash.

With Ridima, users can securely trade cryptocurrencies and gift cards, enjoying fast transactions and high conversion rates. Simply download the app to get started, and reach out to their excellent customer support for any assistance.

Conclusion

International money transfers have been simplified with apps like Wise, Western Union, and Remitly, offering diverse features to suit different needs. However, gift cards and cryptocurrencies are emerging as popular alternatives due to their speed and flexibility.

With Ridima, you can securely convert your gift cards and cryptocurrency into cash at competitive rates. Download the app today and enjoy a seamless transfer experience anytime, anywhere.