6 Best Banks for International Transfers and 5 Online Alternatives [2026]

Sending an international wire with your bank shouldn’t be too much of a headache – but it can be quite expensive, and because third party fees may creep in, your recipient might get less than you were intending in the end.

This guide walks through the pros and cons, features and fees of sending money overseas with 6 major US banks, as well as online specialist services like Wise or OFX, to help you compare and choose.

💡 Best banks for international wire transfers: Key points

ProviderGreat for
Bank of AmericaWide coverage, offering international wire transfers to over 200 countries in more than 140 currencies.
ChaseHigh transfers with no fees above $5,000 USD and a low cost fee of $5 for all transfers under $5,000 USD.
CitibankEasy international transfers thanks to their easy-to-use online and mobile banking service.
Wells FargoMultiple sending options via phone, online or in-person at a local branch.
PNC BankSending payments to a broad range of countries.
US BankSend online or in a branch with a flat transfer fee regardless of how you set up your payment.
WiseSending payments to 140+ countries using the mid-market exchange, without hidden fees.
OFXNo transfer fees for digital international transfers sent in a foreign currency and wide global coverage with transfers available in over 50 currencies.

Go to WiseGo to OFX
 

⭐ Which bank is best for international transfers? 🤔

Before you decide to send your payment with your bank it’s also worth comparing the options from specialist services.

We’ll look at a few specialist alternatives in just a moment, but first let’s see how our 6 big banks measure up against online providers like OFX and Wise on fees and exchange rates.

ProviderInternational wire feeExchange rateTransfer speed
WiseLow fee which varies by destination, transparent fee structureMid-market exchange rate60%+ of transfers are instant, 80%+ are delivered in less than 1 hour*
OFXNo feeExchange rate includes a small markup1 – 2 days in most cases
Bank of AmericaDigital payments in a foreign currency have no transfer feeExchange rate may include a markup1 – 5 business days
Chase$5 per transfer for online payments, with fees waived for payments of $5,000 or moreExchange rate may include a markup1 – 5 business days
CitibankDigital payments in a foreign currency may have no transfer fee or cost up to $35, depending on your account typeExchange rate may include a markupVariable delivery time based on country
Wells FargoDigital payments have up to a $25 transfer fee, in branch payments cost $40Exchange rate may include a markupVariable delivery time based on country
PNC$50 for agent-assisted transfers, $5 for self-service sent in foreign currencyExchange rate may include a markupVariable delivery time based on country
US Bank$50 for all outgoing international transfersExchange rate may include a markupVariable delivery time based on country

*Details correct at time of research – 4th March 2026 *The speed of transaction claims depends on individual circumstances and may not be available for all transactions.

As you can see, the upfront transfer fees from major US banks do vary widely. Exchange rate markups and third party costs can also apply even where transfer fees are waived, which push up the price further.

You may find online international money transfer services such as Wise or OFX for international transfers with more transparent fees and – often – a better exchange rate. More on that later.

Go to WiseGo to OFX

📲 Best online providers for international wire transfers: Overview

Sending your international payment with a bank is secure and familiar. But it may also be expensive or slow. Specialist money transfer services are safe to use and can often offer a lower overall cost.

Here are a few to consider:

ProviderOverview
OFXMake payments in 50+ currencies online, in app and by phone. There’s no transfer fee and the rates offered can beat the banks
WiseSend to 140+ countries, with the mid-market exchange rate and low, transparent fees
TorFXSend money online or over the phone, and get award winning customer service if you want to talk through your options
WorldRemitOnline and in app payments to a range of countries around the world, with a good range of pay out methods
RemitlySend digitally on popular remittance routes, with a broad selection of pay out options available

Go to WiseGo to OFX

Things to consider when choosing an international transfer provider

Not sure how to arrange your international wire? Here are some factors to consider when you’re deciding:

FactorsDescription
💰 Coststhe transfer fee can vary widely, so you’ll need to check the options carefully
⌛ Speedwires can take 3 to 5 days to arrive – check the delivery times when you send your payment
💱Exchange rateslook for a service which uses the mid-market rate (which you’ll find on Google)
📲 Convenienceonline or in app payments are normally fastest and easiest
📥 Payment method optionschoose a provider that supports the most convenient and cost-effective payment method for you.
🎯 Limitssome banks and services are better suited for small, frequent transfers, while others might be best for larger transactions
📞 Customer supportlook for providers that offer 24/7 support via multiple channels such as phone, email, and live chat

Navigating the intricacies of international money transfers can be daunting, but companies like Wise and OFX are international money specialists, with a track record of delivering quick transfers, competitive exchange rates, and the added convenience of user-friendly apps.

We’ll delve deeper into what makes these providers stand out in the next section.

Which US banks accept international wire transfers?

In this guide, we’ve looked at 6 of the most popular banks in the US, to see how they measure up on international wire transfers. We’ll look at the fees, rates, limits, pros and cons of each of the following banks in the US:

  • Bank of America
  • Chase
  • Citibank
  • Wells Fargo
  • PNC bank
  • US Bank

Bank of America international transfers

You can make convenient international transfers with Bank of America online or using the BoA app. If you’re sending a payment in a foreign currency you won’t pay a transfer fee for digital payments – however, there are fees which are added to the exchange rate used.

If you’d prefer to send a payment overseas in USD there’s a 45 USD transfer fee to pay.

Bank of America international wires can also be arranged in person at a Bank of America Financial Center – you’ll need to make an advance appointment to do this, and fees apply.

You can send money to 200+ countries in 140+ currencies with Bank of America. Payments usually arrive in 1 or 2 banking days as long as they’re processed in working hours, but can take up to 5 days.

Bank of America prosBank of America cons
✅ No transfer fee for digital international transfers sent in a foreign currency

✅ Send online or in person depending on your preference

✅ Extensive global coverage with services in over 200 countries and 140+ currencies

✅ Quick process times, typically in 1-2 days

❌ Exchange rate markups apply

❌ Third party charges may apply which are deducted from the send amount

BoA international wire transfer fees, rates and limits

BoA wire transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 BoA outgoing wire transfer feesInternational FX wire transfer outgoing (online): No transfer fee

International USD wire transfer outgoing (online): 45 USD

International wire transfer arranged in branch: Fees vary according to account type

💱 BoA exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a variable markup
🎯 BoA wire transfer limitsBank of America has a $1,000 limit for online payments made from consumer accounts.

Business account holders can send $5,000 online.

You may be able to have your digital payment limit raised if you complete additional security and verification processes – or you can make your payment in a branch instead.

🔐 Is BoA safe to use?Yes. Transfers are subject to digital or in person security steps and are considered safe
⬇️BoA incoming wire transfer feesFees vary according to account type

Chase international wire transfers

You can send a Chase international wire transfer in USD or a foreign currency, online, using the Chase app, or in person by visiting a branch.

If you’re sending your international payment in a foreign currency online or via the Chase app you’ll only pay a 5 USD fee for transfers under 5,000 USD in value, with transfer fees waived entirely for higher value payments.

You might still pay costs in the form of an exchange rate markup added by Chase, though.

Send money to 90+ countries as a personal customer – and 140+ countries if you have a Chase business account.

Chase prosChase cons
✅ Low or no transfer fee for online and mobile payments in a foreign currency

✅ Send transfers in branch, online or using the mobile app for convenience

✅ Suitable for both personal and business customers

✅  Wide reach to 90+ countries

❌ High fees for international wires in USD or arranged in branch

❌ Exchange rate markups and third party fees may apply

Chase international wire transfer fees, rates and limits

Chase wire transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 Chase outgoing wire transfer feesInternational wire transfer outgoing, arranged in branch: 50 USD

International wire transfer outgoing in USD: 40 USD

Chase online and mobile international FX wire transfer: payment under 5,000 USD costs 5 USD, waived over this amount

💱 Chase exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a variable markup
🎯 Chase wire transfer limitsLimits can vary depending on the account you hold and the way you’re setting up your payment – you may be able to make a higher value transfer by visiting a branch in person
🔐 Is Chase safe to use?Yes. Chase is a large bank with strong security measures to keep transfers and customer funds safe
⬇️Chase incoming wire transfer fees15 USD

Related: Chase foreign transaction fees

Citibank international transfers

The easiest way to make a Citibank international transfer is through the online and mobile banking service. You’ll simply need to log into your account and follow the prompts to enter your recipient’s details and process the transfer.

Citibank international wire transfers can be made as a one off payment or on a recurring basis.

The fees you pay will depend on the account you have with Citi – all transfer costs are waived for online payments made in a foreign currency by customers who hold the Citigold Account Package, but fees may apply to some other transfer types.

Citibank prosCitibank cons
✅ Low transfer fees compared to other banks, which may be waived for online payments

✅ Send money online for convenience, or visit a branch if you’d prefer in person service

✅ High daily transfer limits

✅ Convenient mobile banking platform for managing international transfers

❌ Fees vary according to the account you hold

❌ Exchange rate markups apply

Citibank international wire transfer fees, rates and limits

Citibank wire transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 Citibank outgoing wire transfer feesFor regular Citi accounts international transfers (outgoing) – $35

Many of the Citi accounts and banking packages for high wealth individuals have fees waived.

💱 Citibank exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a variable markup
🎯 Citibank wire transfer limitsLimits vary based on the account you hold. For standard Citi accounts there’s a $50,000 daily limit for transfers to non-Citibank accounts
🔐 Is Citibank safe to use?Citi has phone, online, in app and in person support if needed and is considered safe to use
⬇️Citibank incoming wire transfer feesFor regular Citi accounts international transfers (incoming) – $15

Wells Fargo international transfers

You can send an international transfer with Wells Fargo online, by phone, or in person at a branch.

Sending payments online using the digital banking service is usually the quickest, cheapest and most convenient option. You’ll simply need to log into your account and follow the prompts to enter all the required details to set up your transfer.

Wells Fargo international transfer fees vary by account type. However, the specific terms and conditions vary between accounts significantly, so you’ll need to double check the rules for your own account before getting started.

Wells Fargo prosWells Fargo  cons
✅ Safe and familiar service

✅ Send payments online, by phone or in person at a branch

✅ Quick and convenient online transfers

✅ Specific remittance service also available for cash collection payments

❌ Exchange rate markups apply

❌ Fees are relatively high

Wells Fargo international wire transfer fees, rates and limits

Wells Fargo wire transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 Wells Fargo outgoing wire transfer fees
  • International wire transfer outgoing (made in branch): $40
  • International wire transfer outgoing (online or mobile): $0 – $25
💱 Wells Fargo exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a variable markup
🎯 Wells Fargo wire transfer limitsLimit may vary depending on your account type and the exact service you need
🔐 Is Wells Fargo safe to use?Yes. Send payments securely online or in a branch
⬇️Wells Fargo incoming wire transfer feesNo fee for most account types

Related: Wells Fargo foreign transaction fees

PNC international transfers

Depending on where you’re sending a payment to, and the send amount, you may be able to make a low cost international money transfer. If this option isn’t available for your transaction, standard international transfer fees will apply.

Some PNC accounts are only eligible for international transfers initiated in a branch – the service isn’t available online or through the mobile app for example. Check your own account type for details.

PNC prosPNC cons
✅ Where international money transfers are available they come with low transfer fees

✅ Send payments to a broad range of countries

❌ High fees for standard international payments

❌ Extra fees may also creep in – transaction limit charges and third party costs for example

❌ Exchange rate markups apply

PNC international wire transfer fees, rates and limits

PNC wire transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 PNC outgoing wire transfer feesInternational money transfer (where available): 5 USD

International transfer outgoing – self service: 5 USD

International transfer outgoing – agent assisted: 50 USD

💱PNC exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a variable markup
🎯 PNC wire transfer limitsYou’ll be able to find out your account limits by looking at the account terms and conditions
🔐 Is PNC safe to use?Yes. PNC offers strong digital security and agent assistance as needed
⬇️PNC incoming wire transfer fees15 USD

Learn more: PNC International Transfer

US Bank international transfers

Depending on your account type you may be able to send your international payment through the US Bank online banking service. If not, you’ll need to visit a US Bank branch to arrange your payment in person.

US Bank international wire transfers have a 50 USD fee whether you send online or in a branch. To send your payment online you’ll need to log into your digital banking service and follow the onscreen prompts to enter your recipient’s information and process the payment.

You’ll be shown the applicable fees and rates before you confirm the transaction.

US Bank prosUS Bank cons
✅ Safe and familiar option

✅ Make your payment online or in a branch for in person service

✅ Flat transfer fee regardless of how you set up your payment

❌ Not all customers can send money through digital banking

❌ High transfer fees + possible third party charges

❌ Exchange rate markups apply

US Bank international wire transfer fees, rates and limits

US Bank wire transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 US Bank outgoing wire transfer fees50 USD
💱 US Bank exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a variable markup
🎯 US Bank wire transfer limitsInternational transfer limits can vary based on the payment type
🔐 Is US Bank safe to use?Yes. US bank has digital and manual security features to keep your payment safe
⬇️US Bank incoming wire transfer fees25 USD

Related: International money transfer limits

Online international wire transfer services

There’s no single best way to send your international payment, so comparing a few different options is your best bet.

Online providers like these we’ve detailed above can offer low overall costs and give you an instant quote online so you can easily see which works best for you.

Let’s look at these alternatives more in detail:

OFXWiseTorFXWorldRemitRemitly
Coverage170 countries

50+ currencies

140+ countries

40+ currencies

120+ countries

40+ currencies

130+ countries

70 currencies

170+ countries

100+ currencies

International transfer feesNo transfer feesLow and transparent transfer feesFee free for all transfers. Fee is built into the exchange rateFees vary by destination and payment typeFees vary by destination and payment type
Exchange ratesExchange rates may include a markupMid-market exchange rateExchange rates may include a markupExchange rates may include a markupExchange rates may include a markup
International transfer speedMost payments arrive in 1 – 2 days60%+ of transfers are instant, 80%+ are delivered in less than 1 hour*1-2 business days for most transfersInstant for some paymentsVariable delivery times based on transfer type
Transfer limitsUsually unlimitedSend up to 1 million USD from the USUsually unlimited9,000 USD per 24 hours and 5,000 USD per transaction via a debit, credit or prepaid cardUp to 100,000 USD

*Details correct at time of research – 4th March 2026 *The speed of transaction claims depends on individual circumstances and may not be available for all transactions.

OFX international money transfer

OFX allows customers to transfer money internationally without any transfer fees, providing only a small markup on the exchange rate that is often cheaper than banks.

They have a wide global coverage with transfers available in over 50 currencies to 170+ countries.

OFX money transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 OFX outgoing wire transfer feesNo transfer fees
💱OFX exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a markup
🎯 OFX wire transfer limitsUsually unlimited
🔐 Is OFX safe to use?Yes. Plus there’s assistance available anytime for transfer-related inquiries
⬇️OFX incoming wire transfer feesNo option to receive payments

Go to OFX

Wise international money transfer

Wise offers international transfers at the mid-market rate with no hidden fees. Transfer fees and exchange rate is shown transparently as you setup your transfer.

Customers can send money to over 140 countries and 70%+ of transfers arrive instantly or within an hour.

Wise money transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 Wise outgoing wire transfer feesFees vary by destination
💱 Wise exchange ratesMid-market exchange rate
🎯 Wise wire transfer limitsHigh limits, send 1 million USD from the US
🔐 Is Wise safe to use?Wise uses automatic and manual anti fraud protocols and 24/7 in app chat to keep customers safe and informed
⬇️Wise incoming wire transfer feesNo fee to receive a payment with local account information, low fees for SWIFT and wire payments

*(The speed of transaction depends on individual circumstances and may not be available for all transactions)

Go to Wise

TorFX international money transfer

TorFX is another alternative provider that offers fee-free transfers with no maximum limit. With more than 40 global currencies available, transfers are processed on the same day or within 2 working days if you’re sending money to an exotic destination.

Customers also get the added benefit of a dedicated account manager for more personalized service.

TorFX money transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 TorFX outgoing wire transfer feesNo fee
💱 TorFX exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a markup
🎯 TorFX wire transfer limitsUsually unlimited
🔐 Is TorFX safe to use?Yes. TorFX has good security and award winning customer service
⬇️TorFX incoming wire transfer feesNo option to receive payments

Go to TorFX

WorldRemit international money transfers

With WorldRemit, customers can send money to over 130 destinations worldwide using various payout options like cash pickups, bank transfers, mobile money, and airtime top-ups.

The cost and speed of a transfer varies depending on the receiving country and receiving and payment method.

WorldRemit money transfer fees, rates & limits
💰WorldRemit outgoing wire transfer feesVariable fees depending on payment type
💱 WorldRemit exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a markup
🎯 WorldRemit wire transfer limits9,000 USD per 24 hours and 5,000 USD per transaction via a debit, credit or prepaid card
🔐 Is WorldRemit safe to use?Yes. Strict account verifications are in place to keep payments safe
⬇️WorldRemit incoming wire transfer feesNo option to receive payments

Go to Worldremit

Remitly international money transfers

Remitly supports international transfers in over 100 currencies to 170 countries. Transfer fees will vary depending on the destination, but a service fee is added to the transfer amount, and the exchange rate may include a markup.

Transfers can be deposited into your recipient’s bank account or as a cash pickup or home delivery. Other options also include a mobile money account or a debit card deposit depending on your recipient’s location.

Remitly money transfer fees, rates & limits
💰 Remitly outgoing wire transfer feesVariable fees depending on payment type
💱 Remitly exchange ratesExchange rates are likely to include a markup
🎯Remitly wire transfer limitsUp to 100,000 USD
🔐 Is Remitly safe to use?Remitly is a safe provider with strong digital security measures
⬇️Remitly incoming wire transfer feesNo option to receive payments

Go to Remitly

📌📚 Learn more: Best international money transfer apps 🌍

International wire transfer fees for US banks

Here’s an overview of the typical costs for sending an international wire with 6 large US banks.

The exact price you pay may vary based on how you set up your transfer – in branch payments are often more expensive than online transfers for example, and payments made in USD overseas can also attract further fees.

ProviderInternational wire fee
Bank of AmericaDigital payments in a foreign currency have no transfer fee
Chase$5 per transfer for online payments, with fees waived for payments of $5,000 or more
CitibankDigital payments in a foreign currency may have no transfer fee or cost up to $35, depending on your account type
Wells FargoDigital payments in a foreign currency may have $0 – $25 transfer fee
PNC$5 for online transfers, $50 for assisted transfers
US Bank$50 for all transfers

*Details correct at time of research – 4th March 2026

Best bank for international wire transfers with no fees

Some banks and alternative providers state that they don’t charge a fee for international wires. This means there’s not an upfront transfer fee associated with processing your payment. It doesn’t, however, mean that the payment is entirely free.

You may also find a fee added to the exchange rate that’s used to convert your dollars to the currency required for depositing in the recipient’s account. The costs can still mount up pretty quickly especially if you’re sending a high value transfer or making multiple payments.

You may want to try an alternative provider instead to see if you can get a lower overall cost.

Check out OFX which offers international payments which have no transfer fee and which use a competitive exchange rate, or Wise which has low, transparent fees and mid-market rates.

Best bank to send large amounts of money internationally

Banks set their own limits on the amount of money you can send overseas using a wire. This limit can vary depending on the account you have, and also according to the bank’s security protocols.

It’s also important to note that exchange rate markups will usually apply. As a percentage fee, this can mount up extremely quickly if you’re sending a higher value transfer.

Compare the rate you’re quoted against the mid-market rate you can get from Google, to check the markup being used for your specific transaction.

Here’s a quick look at some popular US banks and alternatives, on high value payments:

Bank/providerTransfer limitsTransfer optionsFees
WiseVariable limits – from the US send up to 1 million USD/transferOnline and in appFrom 0.57%, with volume discounts when sending over 25,000 USD/month
OFXUsually unlimitedOnline, in app, by phoneNo transfer fee – small exchange rate markup used
Wells FargoVariable limits for online payments – branch transfers have higher limitsOnline, in app, in branch0 – 25 USD + exchange rate markup
Bank of AmericaVariable limitsOnline, in app, in branchNo fee for foreign currency digital payments

Exchange rate markup applies

ChaseVariable limitsOnline, in app, in branchNo fee for foreign currency digital payments over 5,000 USD. 5 USD fee for smaller payments

Exchange rate markup applies

*Details correct at time of research – 4th March 2026

Online banks that accept international wire transfers

You’ll need to check with your own bank or account provider if they’re able to allow you to receive an international wire.

Some services – like Chime – don’t support international payments. Others may restrict the use of international wires to customers who have a specific account type.

You’ll often find that banks waive or lower the costs of sending a digital payment compared to visiting a branch – although using a third party service may still work out cheaper in the end.

If you can’t send your payment using an online or in-app transfer, you might find you have to visit a branch to set up your transfer. This can often cost more in the end. Here’s a quick summary of some options for online international transfers:

  • Wells Fargo: Send digital transfers online and in app, with fees waived when sending foreign currencies – limits apply which vary based on your account type
  • Bank of America: Digital transfers are available, but there are limits which can change according to your account type and usage. Consumer banking online limits can be as low as 1,000 USD for some accounts
  • US Bank: Send money online from an eligible account. Fees of 50 USD apply
  • Wise: Send payments to 140+ countries online and in app, with fees from 0.57% and the mid-market exchange rate
  • OFX: Send transfers in 50+ currencies with no upfront transfer fee and a low exchange rate markup – payments can be arranged online and in app once you have registered
  • XE Money Transfer: Send money all over the world, with low or no fees depending on the destination and the patent type

How to send money internationally

Sending money abroad doesn’t have to be complicated, but the exact steps for transferring money internationally will differ based on your chosen method and provider. Here’s a general guide to help you understand what to expect:

  1. Choose a provider – Choose a provider, considering factors like fees, exchange rates, transfer speeds, currency options, and the countries they operate in.
  2. Sign up – Sign up for an account in person or online. You’ll usually have to provide ID and proof of address to verify your identity.
  3. Choose your currency and how much you want to send – Select the amount you wish to send and the currency you want to send it in.
  4. Enter recipient details – You’ll need to provide your recipient’s bank account details, such as their IBAN or SWIFT code.
  5. Pay for your transfer – Depending on your provider, you may have the option of various payment methods like credit or debit cards.
  6. Send your transfer – Review all the details and confirm your transfer. Most services let you initiate transfers online or via an app to make the process quick.
  7. Track the process – Some providers offer tracking options so you can see the status of your transfer in real-time.

📌📚 If you are going to send or receive money internationally, it’s important to know the relevant taxes and regulations. You can learn more about them here: International wire transfer regulations and taxes. 🌍

Conclusion: What is the best bank for international wire transfer?

Using banks for international wire transfers can be convenient and secure but is also often expensive thanks to complicated fees and poor exchange rates. It’s also not often the fastest option, with bank wires commonly taking several days to arrive, depending on the destination.

Specialist services like Wise and OFX are a good option for a faster payment which can be cheaper too. Compare a few options to see which works best for you.

Useful resources

Claire Millard
Fintech Content Writer
Claire Millard is a content and copywriter with a specialty in international finance. Her work has featured in The Times and The Telegraph, as well as industry magazines and leading personal finance blogs.
Read more
Seyma Mektepli
Editor-in-chief
Seyma is an experienced content writer and editor-in-chief at Exiap, delivering informative articles on personal finance, and money transfers.
Read more
Last updated
March 30th, 2026