Compare all the best ways to send money to Spain

The average USD to EUR rate today is 0.9419, though it peaked at 0.981 in the past 3 months.

A difference of even 1-2 cents per euro can mean hundreds more received on a larger transfer.

If you're flexible on timing, wait for a favorable rate.

But if you need to send now, Wise has consistently performed well.

Your funding method can affect both the cost and delivery speed.

For a $2,000 transfer to Spain, here’s how different options compare:

• Bank transfer via Revolut: with $0 and only 0.2% markup

• Debit card through Wise: about $22 in fees + markup

• Credit card via : costs around $0 + markup and the potential cash advance fees

Bank transfers are generally the cheapest and most predictable.

Avoid credit cards unless you need instant funding and are aware of the added costs.

Avoid SWIFT when possible.

It’s slower, more expensive, and often involves hidden intermediary fees.

Most people in Spain receive their EUR via a local bank deposit.

Transfers into Spanish bank accounts are fast and reliable, especially when sent using providers like Revolut.

Other options include:

• Cash pickup: Available via Western Union or Ria, mostly in rural areas

• Digital wallets: PayPal is available but can be expensive; Revolut is a better choice for expats

• Bank wire transfers: Supported across all major banks, including CaixaBank, BBVA, Santander, and Sabadell

For property-related or recurring payments, a local EUR account (with IBAN starting in "ES") is ideal.

If you’re sending a large amount to purchase property in Spain, especially from outside the EU, you may encounter added checks and documentation requirements.

Recent changes mean:

• Transfers may need to be reported to the Spanish tax authorities

• Banks or notaries may ask for your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)

• You might be asked to show proof of property purpose, source of funds, and recipient bank details

Wise is a reliable choice for larger transfers, offering strong exchange rates, transparent fees, and AML-compliant workflows.

Most money transfer services have limits on how much you can send, both minimum and maximum.

For transfers above €10,000:

• You or your recipient may need to provide ID, proof of address, and source of funds

• This is standard under Spain’s anti-money laundering (AML) rules

For larger amounts, Wise or Revolut are excellent options for compliance and transparency.

Speed depends on the provider, method, and time of day. For example:

• Ria Money Transfer is the fastest overall

• Bank or card deposits via Ria Money Transfer typically arrive in 1–2 business days

• Cash transfers are often instant, but are less commonly used in urban areas

Faster delivery usually comes with slightly higher fees, so weigh your priorities.

If you're sending euros from another EU country (like Germany, France, or Ireland), your transfer will likely be processed via SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area).

SEPA transfers:

• Are usually completed within 24–48 hours

• Typically carry no fees (or very low ones)

• Are ideal for recurring payments or salary transfers within the EU

Even for SEPA transfers, services like Revolut can help you track transfers, minimize fees, and avoid poor FX rates (if converting from a non-EUR balance).

In most cases, receiving money into a Spanish bank account requires no special action from the recipient.

However, for cash pickups or larger transfers, recipients may be asked to present:

• A valid government-issued ID (passport or driver’s license)

• The sender’s full name and contact details

• The expected amount and a transfer reference number

If the money is for a high-value purpose (e.g., property, business investment), additional documentation like proof of funds or an NIE may be required.

There are no legal limits on how much money you can send to Spain.

Gift tax in Spain is complicated.

The recipient of large transfers as a gift will likely have to pay tax.

The amount of tax due is reduced if the sender is a close family member.

The tax rate can range from around 7.65% to 34%.

Amounts over €10,000 must be declared for money laundering purposes.

Amounts over €3,000 in cash, and transactions involving €500 banknotes must also be declared.