Compare the best ways to send money to Netherlands

As a member of the European Union, the Netherlands benefits from SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area), a framework that allows fast, low-fee EUR transfers between European countries.

If you're sending from a SEPA country, transfers are usually free or near-instant.

Even if you're outside the EU, many providers use SEPA rails to speed up transfers and reduce costs, as long as your payment method supports it.

Avoid using the SWIFT network if possible.

While it’s available for EUR transfers, it’s slower and typically includes hidden fees from intermediary banks.

The EUR exchange rate determines the final amount your recipient receives.

Even small changes in the market can impact your transfer value.

Currently, the average USD to EUR exchange rate is 0.9392, while the peak rate over the past three months was 0.981.

If your transfer isn’t urgent, waiting for a better rate can help you get more EUR for your money.

If you’re transferring now, Wise has recently offered the most favorable rates to the Netherlands.

The method you use to pay for your transfer directly affects both fees and speed.

Recent comparison data shows:

• Bank transfer is the most cost-effective payment method.

• Bank transfer tends to be the most expensive.

For example:

• A bank transfer through Revolut may cost only $0, with a markup of 0.2%.

• A credit card payment via might cost $0 with a similar or % markup. But be aware of potential cash advance fees and higher credit interest.

Card transfers are usually quicker than bank transfers, and cheaper than credit cards, which is a good option for a balance of speed and cost.

Compare each method to find what’s best for your budget and urgency.

In the Netherlands, direct bank deposits are the most common and efficient way to receive EUR.

Revolut has consistently ranked among the cheapest options for transfers to Dutch bank accounts.

All Dutch banks support IBAN-based SEPA transfers, making the process fast and seamless.

Popular banks like ING, Rabobank, ABN AMRO, and Bunq all support inbound EUR payments from international providers.

Cash pickup services are available for urgent or unbanked recipients through Western Union or Ria, though these are less commonly used in the Netherlands.

Mobile wallets like PayPal and Xoom are available, but they may carry extra fees or withdrawal limits compared to traditional bank transfers or providers like Revolut.

Most transfer providers set limits on how much money you can send to the Netherlands, both minimums and maximums.

These limits can vary depending on the provider, currency, and payment method.

If you’re sending a larger amount, Revolut has shown strong performance in offering competitive rates with low fees.

For transfers over $10,000 USD (or the equivalent in EUR), you may be asked to provide documentation, such as proof of funds or your reason for the transfer.

These checks are standard under European AML (Anti-Money Laundering) regulations.

Thanks to SEPA infrastructure and efficient banking in the Netherlands, EUR transfers typically arrive in 1–2 business days.

Xe ranked as the fastest provider for bank transfers, while Xe appeared most often for debit cards in terms of speed.

If you’re using a credit card, delivery may take slightly longer and cost more.

For urgent transfers, cash pickup services through Xoom can make EUR available within minutes.

Avoid SWIFT transfers when time matters

They often introduce extra processing time via intermediary banks.

For most bank and wallet transfers to the Netherlands, the money is automatically delivered without recipient involvement.

However, if the transfer is large or involves cash pickup, identification will be required.

Typically accepted documents include:

• A valid Dutch national ID, passport, or driver’s license

• The sender’s full name and contact details

• The amount expected in EUR

• A transaction or reference number (for cash pickups)

For large transfers, your provider may also request:

• Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement)

• Proof of source of funds (salary slip, savings account)

Money is frequently sent to the Netherlands to support:

• Family members or partners

• International students studying at Dutch universities

• Expats relocating for work or retirement

• Paying for rent, property deposits, or remote work arrangements

By choosing the right provider, you can reduce your fees and ensure your recipient gets the full value, quickly and safely.

You can send as much money as you want to the Netherlands.

The Dutch Government doesn’t tax money transfers coming from abroad. Inheritance tax in the Netherlands is only due when an inheritance is sent by someone living in the Netherlands.

Gift tax is also only payable in these circumstances.