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What Is the Best App for Transferring Money Abroad?
Whether it's supporting family, paying for goods and services, or managing cross-border business expenses, the demand for international money transfers is booming. And the numbers prove it.
The global money transfer services market reached about $36.34 billion in 2024, showing significant momentum with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.02% since 2019. And this upward trend isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Projections show the market could grow to $78.12 billion by 2029, and potentially reach a staggering $171.97 billion by 2034, fueled by a CAGR of over 17% in the following years.
More people are also turning to payment apps to move funds securely and efficiently across borders. However, with so many apps available today, it’s natural to wonder: ‘What’s the best app for sending money abroad?’
What to Look For in an International Money Transfer App
The best app for transferring money abroad can be subjective, depending on a user’s priorities and specific needs. But in general, here are some factors you can consider when deciding which app to use:
1. Transfer Speed
How quickly do you need the money to arrive? Some apps like Ka.app allow you to transfer fiat (i.e., EUR) as well as send crypto and Bitcoin within seconds, while others might take a few days, especially if traditional banks are involved.
2. Transfer Fees
You wouldn’t want to spend too much on hefty transfer fees, so be sure to read up on the platform’s charges also. If you want to avoid fees altogether, Ka.app lets users transfer EUR and cryptocurrencies to other Ka.app users for free, no matter where they are in supported countries.
3. Ease of Use
Regardless if you’re tech-savvy or not, choosing an app with a clean, intuitive interface can directly impact how quickly, confidently, and effectively you can send funds across borders. Choosing a beginner-friendly platform can also help you prevent costly transaction errors.
4. Security
When sending money internationally, you're not just moving funds across borders; you're also entrusting the platform with your personal information, financial data, and sometimes even sensitive identification documents. Hence, a platform must have strong security protocols to protect you against fraud, phishing attacks, identity theft, and hacking.
It’s best to choose a platform with strong security features, such as two-factor authentication (2FA), end-to-end encryption, strict KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures, among many others.
5. Exchange Rates
Exchange rates play a major role in how much money the recipient actually receives. Even small differences in exchange rates can have a big impact on the final amount, especially if you're sending large sums or making frequent transactions. To get the best possible value for your money, choose a platform with competitive, real-time exchange rates.
6. Supported Countries and Currencies
Make sure the app supports both the country you're sending from and the recipient's location to avoid complications or delays. You should also check the list of currencies available in the platform, especially if you prefer to transfer cryptocurrencies.
Top International Money Transfer Apps
Here are some widely-used platforms for international money transfers, each catering to different types of users:
1. Ka.app: For Free Crypto and EUR International Transfers
Ka.app is a crypto and money transfer platform that caters to both beginners and experienced users. What sets it apart is that you can send currencies for free to other Ka.app users within seconds, making it a perfect solution for cross-border transfers without delays and hefty costs.
Unlike traditional remittance apps, Ka.app is built for a hybrid financial lifestyle, offering some of the most popular cryptocurrencies in the market, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USD Coin (USDC), Dogecoin (DOGE), TRON (TRX), and so much more. EUR transfers are also available to users in the European Economic Area (EEA). Plus, they can create their own crypto IBAN account, and order a crypto debit card with wallet, which allows you to conveniently spend or cash out funds.
Security is another strong suit of Ka.app. It uses Fireblocks technology, two-factor authentication (2FA), strict KYC verification, and conducts regular software updates to protect users’ funds.
2. Wise: For Transparent Currency Conversions
Wise is a go-to option for users looking to transfer money abroad with clear and competitive exchange rates. It’s known for using the real mid-market exchange rate, without inflated markups that traditional banks often charge.
Wise offers both personal and business accounts. It supports multiple currencies and transfers to more than 160 countries. This makes it especially useful for global freelancers or remote workers who get paid in various currencies. Transfers are generally fast, taking a few hours to a couple of days depending on the country and payment method.
Security-wise, the platform is regulated by financial authorities in multiple countries and uses 2FA, anti-fraud measures, and encryption to safeguard user data.
3. Revolut: For Everyday Transactions and Digital Nomads
Revolut blends banking features with currency exchange, travel perks, and international money transfers. It's best for users who want to spend, save, and send money while traveling or living abroad. It offers features like multi-currency accounts, budgeting tools, and stock trading. Users can also access metal and premium plans that come with added benefits such as travel insurance, virtual cards, and lounge access.
For international money transfers, Revolut offers free or low-fee transfers depending on your plan tier, and it uses real exchange rates for currency conversions. Transfers within the Revolut network are instant and free, making it a great option for sending money between friends or family who also use the app.
The app is well-designed and easy to use, and it includes robust security features like biometric login, customizable card limits, and fraud monitoring.
4. PayPal/Xoom: For Brand Recognition and Cash Pickups
PayPal is one of the most widely known platforms for digital payments, and its international transfer service, Xoom, is designed specifically for sending money abroad. Xoom allows for bank deposits, mobile wallet transfers, and even cash pickups at thousands of global locations.
PayPal’s ecosystem supports various markets, and users can send money in multiple currencies. However, the platform is criticized for its high fees and unfavorable exchange rates, especially when transferring between different currencies or withdrawing money to a bank account. Transfers via Xoom are usually faster but also come with service fees that vary by destination and amount.
Despite its cost, PayPal offers strong security with buyer/seller protection, encryption, and transaction monitoring. It’s also easy to use, making it a good backup option for those who value reliability and don’t mind paying a bit more for the convenience of cash pickups and a trusted global brand.
How to Get Started with Ka.app for International Transfers
If you’re impressed by Ka.app’s features and security, here’s how you can easily create an account on the platform:
1. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play. You can also go to the web app.
2. Sign up for an account.
3. Complete KYC verification to unlock full wallet functionality.
4. Once your account has been verified, you can start transferring funds using the ‘Send’ feature.
So, Which One Is the Best App for Sending Money Internationally?
At the end of the day, the best app for sending money abroad depends entirely on your priorities, whether that’s speed, low fees, crypto support, cash pickups, or overall user experience.
However, if you’re looking for an easy-to-use, quick, cost-efficient, and secure all-in-one solution that supports both crypto and EUR, Ka.app could be the platform for you. It offers an intuitive design, free and quick transfers between Ka.app users, and other convenient features.
If you haven’t already, create an account here.
FAQs
What is the cheapest app for sending money internationally?
While pricing varies depending on the amount, destination, and payment method, Ka.app is one of the most cost-effective apps for international transfers. It allows free crypto and EUR transfers between Ka.app users.
How fast can I send money abroad with an app?
With the right platform, you can send money abroad in just seconds. Apps like Ka.app are designed for almost instant transfers, particularly when sending crypto to other users within the same ecosystem.
Are international money transfer apps safe to use?
Yes, most reputable money transfer apps are built with strong security protocols to protect your personal data and funds. For instance, Ka.app uses Fireblocks technology and 2FA for digital asset security, along with regular software updates and user verification processes to ensure maximum safety.
Can I send money internationally without fees?
Yes, it’s possible to send money internationally without paying fees if you choose the right platform. Ka.app lets users send funds to other Ka.app wallets completely free of charge, making it an excellent choice for global transfers.
What is the best app for sending large amounts of money overseas?
When sending large sums internationally, you need an app that offers zero to low fees, high transfer limits, secure infrastructure, and real-time tracking. Ka.app is ideal for this use case because as mentioned, transfers are free if you’re sending to another Ka.app user. Also, the app doesn’t specify a specific limit, especially for crypto transfers.