Remitly, founded in 2011, offers a fresh take on international money transfers; fast, secure, and affordable for millions of customers worldwide.
With service in over 170 countries and support for more than 100 currencies, Remitly simplifies the process with competitive exchange rates, low fees, and multiple payout options that cater to both personal remittances and business needs.
Should You Use Remitly?
I think Remitly is a solid option for sending money internationally if you need speed and reliability. With most transfers arriving within hours and low fees, it’s ideal for those who want to quickly get funds to family or business partners. The app’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to sign up and send money, even for first-time users.
However, Remitly’s exchange rates can fluctuate, which may not be ideal if you want consistency in your transfer amounts. While customer support generally gets positive reviews, there are reports of delays and issues with transaction handling that could be frustrating in urgent situations.
For those who value convenience and speed over the finer details, I recommend trying Remitly. But if you need more predictable exchange rates or flawless customer service, it might be worth exploring other options.
Remitly At A Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Quick international transfers with a focus on ease of use. |
| Not Ideal For | Users needing flawless customer support or predictable exchange rates. |
| Transfer Speed | Most transfers arrive within hours. |
| Fees | Competitive, transparent pricing. |
| Exchange Rates | Good but Fluctuating – Rates may vary depending on market conditions. |
| Customer Support | Mixed – Some praise it for being responsive, others report delays and unclear answers. |
| Sign-Up Process | Simple & Quick – Easy to set up and start sending money. |
| Transfer Options | Bank Account, Debit/Credit Card, Mobile Wallet – Multiple options to send money globally. |
| Payment Methods | Debit/Credit Card, Bank Transfer, Mobile Wallet – Flexible payment options for sending funds. |
| Security | Protected with encryption and complies with regulatory standards. |
| Mobile App Rating | 4.9/5 (App Store) – Highly rated for ease of use and functionality. |
| Customer Rating (Trustpilot) | 4.6/5 – Highly rated for reliability and speed. |
Remitly Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast transfers with Express option – money often arrives in minutes. | Exchange rates include a markup – I noticed I could’ve got more elsewhere for bigger transfers. |
| Wide payout network – cash pickup, bank deposit, mobile wallet or even home delivery in some countries. | Limited for large or business payments – no hedging, batching, or currency tools exist. |
| Easy to use – I found the app and website clear, even on first use. | Not ideal for sending to the UK or Europe – it’s built for outbound transfers only. |
| 24/7 customer support via live chat – genuinely helpful when I needed to chase a delay. | Higher fees if you pay by credit card, and your bank might charge extra, too. |
| Low fees on Economy transfers – often free if you’re sending more. | Some payout methods are country-specific – cash pickup isn’t always available. |
| Suitable for popular corridors like India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Nigeria, and Kenya. | Transfer limits can be tight initially – you’ll need to upload extra ID to unlock higher caps. |
Who Is Remitly Best For?
Best For
- People sending money home to family, especially in Asia, Africa or Latin America.
- First-time users who want a simple, easy-to-use app
- Anyone needing fast transfers – Express option can deliver in minutes
- Senders looking for flexible payout methods like cash pickup, mobile wallet, or home delivery
- Regular, smaller transfers where cost and convenience matter
- Those who value upfront pricing and real-time exchange rate visibility
Not Ideal For
- High-value or six-figure transfers where FX margins matter more
- Business users needing bulk payments or hedging tools
- Sending money into the UK or Europe – only outbound transfers supported
- Transfers to more remote regions with fewer payout options
- Users needing advanced financial features or multi-currency accounts
Remitly Key Features
Multiple Transfer Methods
Remitly offers a range of payout options including bank deposits, cash pickups, mobile money, and even home delivery in select countries. This variety means you can choose the method that best suits your recipient’s needs and local banking infrastructure. Whether you’re sending funds for everyday expenses or an emergency, Remitly’s options are designed to provide flexibility and convenience.
Extensive Global Coverage
With service available in over 170 countries and support for more than 100 currencies, Remitly connects you to nearly every corner of the globe. This expansive network ensures that both popular and remote destinations are accessible, making it easier to support loved ones or manage international business payments. The broad reach is a key advantage for customers looking for reliable global remittance options.
Transparent Fees and Competitive Exchange Rates
Remitly prides itself on clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees, allowing you to see exactly what you’ll pay before you send money. Competitive exchange rates, updated in real time, ensure that you get a favourable conversion every time. Promotional offers for new customers further help to reduce the cost of your first transfer, making it a smart choice for cost-conscious users.
Fast Delivery Options
For those in a hurry, Remitly offers an Express transfer option that delivers funds within minutes via debit or credit card payments. Alternatively, the Economy option provides a more affordable solution, with transfers typically taking 3-5 business days. This dual approach allows you to balance speed against cost depending on the urgency of your needs.
Robust Digital Experience and Support
Remitly’s user-friendly mobile app and website make initiating and tracking transfers a breeze, even for first-time users. The platform provides real-time updates and a comprehensive Help Center, ensuring that assistance is always at hand. With 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and in-app messaging, Remitly is committed to guiding you smoothly through every transaction.
How Much Does It Cost To Use Remitly?
Remitly keeps things refreshingly simple when it comes to fees. You’ll always see the full cost and exchange rate upfront before you hit send, which, in my view, makes planning your transfer much easier. There are no hidden charges or sneaky add-ons; you often get better value the more you send.
| Transfer Type | Speed | Typical Fee | Exchange Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express | Minutes | Around £2.99–£3.99 (varies) | Slightly less favourable |
| Economy | 3–5 business days | Often free for £/$1,000+ | More favourable than Express |
Rates change in real time, so the amount your recipient gets will depend on the current market rate when you confirm the transfer. I’ve found the transparency helpful — there’s no second-guessing.
Good to know
- First-time users often get promotional rates (better FX or no fee)
- Debit or credit card payments cost more than bank transfers
- Some payout partners may charge fees (especially for cash pickup) – always check before sending
What’s The Transfer Process Like?
Remitly’s transfer process is refreshingly simple. This feels like a breath of fresh air if you’re used to navigating clunky banking apps or slow in-branch services. Everything’s designed to be quick, clear, and mobile-friendly – ideal if you’re short on time or not especially tech-savvy.
Signing Up
Getting started is straightforward. You just need an email address and a few personal details to create your account. ID checks are usually smooth and completed in minutes, especially if you sign up through the app. There’s no overwhelming paperwork or awkward steps – it’s all designed to get you transferring quickly and securely.
Easy-to-Use App and Website
The app and website are clean, intuitive, and user-friendly, which I think is perfect for anyone who’s not particularly tech-savvy. Signing up and sending money is a breeze – no complicated jargon, just clear steps. The layout is simple, and you can easily track your transfers without any hassle. Everything feels well thought out, whether on your phone or desktop.
Transfer Options
Remitly offers a wide range of delivery methods depending on the country you’re sending to. Bank deposits are the most common, but you can also send them to mobile wallets, arrange for cash pickup, or even deliver them to your home in some locations. I think it’s brilliant that recipients don’t need a bank account – it opens up options for families in less connected areas.
Transfer Tracking
Once your transfer is on the move, you’re kept in the loop. The app provides real-time tracking and status updates, and you’ll also get email or text notifications. In many cases, the recipient is notified, too, especially for mobile money or cash pickup transfers. Knowing where your money is at every step gives you peace of mind.
Is Remitly Safe To Use?
When sending money internationally, safety is always a top concern. Fortunately, Remitly has put multiple layers of protection in place to ensure that your money and personal data are safe at every step of the process. It’s reassuring to know that the service has strong security measures, especially for larger transfers or urgent payments.
- Advanced Encryption Technology: All transactions are protected with top-notch encryption to ensure the security of your personal and financial information.
- Fraud Detection Systems: Remitly has robust fraud detection systems that continuously monitor transactions for suspicious activity. This helps prevent potential fraud or unauthorised transfers.
- Regulated by Financial Authorities: Remitly is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring it adheres to strict compliance standards. I always look for this when choosing a service.
- Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: They follow stringent anti-money laundering (AML) procedures to ensure your transfers are legal and transparent, providing extra confidence.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Remitly uses 2FA for added security during login and account access. This ensures that only you can access your account, protecting it from unauthorised access.
- 24/7 Monitoring: Remitly’s systems are monitored 24/7 to detect unusual or potentially risky activities, helping prevent fraud before it happens.
Secure Payment Gateways: The platform uses secure payment gateways that comply with industry standards, protecting your money and sensitive data during transactions.
Customer Support and Service Style
One of the standout features is Remitly’s 24/7 customer support, available through live chat, email, and in-app messaging. I’ve found the response times to be quick, and the agents are generally helpful, addressing concerns efficiently. They also provide a comprehensive Help Centre with FAQs, guides, and troubleshooting tips. It’s nice knowing you can get assistance anytime, especially when dealing with urgent or complex transactions.
Remitly’s communication is excellent. They keep you updated on the status of your transfers with real-time notifications via the app, email, or SMS, depending on your preference. And if there are any issues, like a delay due to bank processing or verification, you’re notified promptly, which is much appreciated.
Remitly Customer Reviews
When it comes to user feedback, Remitly generally receives strong praise for its speed, ease of use, and reliability. However, as with any service, there are areas where some customers feel there’s room for improvement.
Positive Reviews
- Speed & Convenience: Rated 4.6 out of 5 on Trustpilot, with users praising fast transfers that often complete within hours.
- Low Fees & Competitive Rates: Many appreciate the affordable fees and good exchange rates compared to other providers.
- User-Friendly: The simple interface makes it easy for customers to send money quickly.
Neutral Reviews
- Fluctuating Exchange Rates: Some users are unhappy with variable exchange rates and unclear service fees.
- Customer Service: Mixed feedback on customer support, with a few citing slow responses and unclear guidance.
Negative Reviews
- Delays & Account Issues: A few users report delayed transfers and account blocks, causing frustration.
- Poor Support: Some have had trouble resolving issues, particularly time-sensitive transactions.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. While we aim to ensure accuracy and relevance, the content may not reflect your specific circumstances or the most current developments in financial services.
Before making any financial decisions, including choosing a money transfer service, you should consult a qualified financial adviser who can provide guidance tailored to your individual needs and situation. Wise and other financial products mentioned in this article may not be suitable for everyone, and it is essential to consider all factors, including fees, exchange rates, and applicable regulations, before proceeding.
The use of this information is at your own discretion, and we disclaim any liability for decisions made based on the content provided. Always verify terms and conditions with the service provider directly.
FAQs
Once a transfer is confirmed and processing begins, it is generally not possible to cancel or change the details. If you spot an error early on, contact customer support immediately to see if any adjustments can be made.
Remitly typically requires a valid government-issued ID and proof of address when you send higher amounts. The exact documentation may vary depending on your country and transfer size. This process helps ensure your transactions remain secure.
You can pay for transfers using debit or credit cards, and in some cases, bank transfers are also accepted. The available options may differ by country and the selected delivery method. This flexibility makes it easy to choose the most convenient payment option.
If incorrect recipient information is provided, the transfer might be delayed or returned, and additional fees could apply. It’s important to double-check details before confirming your transfer. Should an issue arise, contacting customer support promptly is recommended
Remitly’s fee structure is focused on the sender, with clear, upfront costs. However, be aware that intermediary or local banks might charge a fee on the receiving end. It’s a good idea to confirm with your recipient what fees, if any, may apply in their country.