Sending Money to the Philippines: The Ultimate Guide for Expats

Enjoying the sunshine and rich culture of the Philippines? Whether you’re here for a few weeks or settling in for the long haul, there may come a time when you need to access funds from abroad. Maybe it’s for unexpected expenses, a budget top-up, or helping someone back home. This guide walks you through the smartest ways to send money to the Philippines—securely, efficiently, and with maximum value.

How Money Transfers Work

Before choosing a service, here’s what happens behind the scenes when you send money internationally:

• You start the transfer through a provider (money transfer service or bank).

• Your currency is exchanged into Philippine Pesos (PHP). The exchange rate affects how much the recipient will get.

• Fees are applied, including transfer fees, margin fees (built into the exchange rate), or service charges.

• Funds are delivered through options like:

  • Bank deposit

  • Cash pickup

  • Mobile wallet (e.g., GCash or PayMaya)

What to Watch For

Choosing the right service means weighing a few key factors:

• Fees: Transfer and processing fees vary by service and amount sent.

• Exchange Rates: Even small differences can add up, so compare rates across services.

• Speed: Faster isn’t always better—some services charge more for instant transfers.

• Delivery Method: Pick what’s most convenient for your recipient—bank account, cash pickup, or mobile wallet.

Why Use a Money Transfer Service Instead of a Bank?

• Ease of Use: Send money from your phone or laptop, anytime.

• Better Rates: Services like Wise often beat traditional bank rates.

• Faster Transfers: Some services deliver in minutes.

• Security: Reputable platforms use strong encryption and anti-fraud systems.

Top Money Transfer Options for the Philippines

1. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Pros:

• Great for transparent exchange rates with no hidden markups.

• User-friendly platform with multiple payment methods (bank transfer, debit, credit).

• Fast delivery to PH bank accounts, especially from the US, UK, or EU.

Cons:

• Fewer cash pickup locations.

• Slightly higher fees for small transfers.

2. Remitly

Pros:

• Simple mobile app experience.

• Offers cash pickup, mobile wallet transfers (like GCash), and bank deposits.

• Good rates for smaller amounts and first-time users.

Cons:

• Larger transfers may come with higher fees.

• Speed varies depending on your location and method.

3. Xoom (by PayPal)

Pros:

• Widely trusted brand with tons of cash pickup options across the Philippines.

• Fast delivery, especially from the US.

• Frequent promotions and bonus credits for new users.

Cons:

• Exchange rates may not be the best compared to Wise.

• Higher fees than some newer platforms.

Quick Tips to Maximize Your Transfer

• Compare Rates Before Every Transfer: Rates and fees can change daily—don’t assume yesterday’s best deal is still good today.

• Plan for Speed or Savings: Need it fast? Expect to pay a little more. No rush? Choose a lower-cost option.

• Check for New User Bonuses: Some apps offer fee waivers or better rates for your first few transfers.

• Ask Your Recipient: Make sure they’re able to receive funds through your selected method.

Final Thought: Be Smart, Stay Secure

Sending money to the Philippines doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right service, you can get great exchange rates, low fees, and peace of mind. Whether you’re helping family, paying a bill, or just keeping your travel budget topped up, a little planning can go a long way.

Enjoying the sunshine and rich culture of the Philippines? Whether you’re here for a few weeks or settling in for the long haul, there may come a time when you need to access funds from abroad. Maybe it’s for unexpected expenses, a budget top-up, or helping someone back home. This guide walks you through the smartest ways to send money to the Philippines—securely, efficiently, and with maximum value.

How Money Transfers Work

Before choosing a service, here’s what happens behind the scenes when you send money internationally:

• You start the transfer through a provider (money transfer service or bank).

• Your currency is exchanged into Philippine Pesos (PHP). The exchange rate affects how much the recipient will get.

• Fees are applied, including transfer fees, margin fees (built into the exchange rate), or service charges.

• Funds are delivered through options like:

  • Bank deposit

  • Cash pickup

  • Mobile wallet (e.g., GCash or PayMaya)

What to Watch For

Choosing the right service means weighing a few key factors:

• Fees: Transfer and processing fees vary by service and amount sent.

• Exchange Rates: Even small differences can add up, so compare rates across services.

• Speed: Faster isn’t always better—some services charge more for instant transfers.

• Delivery Method: Pick what’s most convenient for your recipient—bank account, cash pickup, or mobile wallet.

Why Use a Money Transfer Service Instead of a Bank?

• Ease of Use: Send money from your phone or laptop, anytime.

• Better Rates: Services like Wise often beat traditional bank rates.

• Faster Transfers: Some services deliver in minutes.

• Security: Reputable platforms use strong encryption and anti-fraud systems.

Top Money Transfer Options for the Philippines

1. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Pros:

• Great for transparent exchange rates with no hidden markups.

• User-friendly platform with multiple payment methods (bank transfer, debit, credit).

• Fast delivery to PH bank accounts, especially from the US, UK, or EU.

Cons:

• Fewer cash pickup locations.

• Slightly higher fees for small transfers.

2. Remitly

Pros:

• Simple mobile app experience.

• Offers cash pickup, mobile wallet transfers (like GCash), and bank deposits.

• Good rates for smaller amounts and first-time users.

Cons:

• Larger transfers may come with higher fees.

• Speed varies depending on your location and method.

3. Xoom (by PayPal)

Pros:

• Widely trusted brand with tons of cash pickup options across the Philippines.

• Fast delivery, especially from the US.

• Frequent promotions and bonus credits for new users.

Cons:

• Exchange rates may not be the best compared to Wise.

• Higher fees than some newer platforms.

Quick Tips to Maximize Your Transfer

• Compare Rates Before Every Transfer: Rates and fees can change daily—don’t assume yesterday’s best deal is still good today.

• Plan for Speed or Savings: Need it fast? Expect to pay a little more. No rush? Choose a lower-cost option.

• Check for New User Bonuses: Some apps offer fee waivers or better rates for your first few transfers.

• Ask Your Recipient: Make sure they’re able to receive funds through your selected method.

Final Thought: Be Smart, Stay Secure

Sending money to the Philippines doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right service, you can get great exchange rates, low fees, and peace of mind. Whether you’re helping family, paying a bill, or just keeping your travel budget topped up, a little planning can go a long way.