Compare the best ways to send money to Zambia

The exchange rate determines how much ZMW the recipient will get when you transfer money to Zambia.

For example, today, the average exchange rate between US Dollar and Zambian Kwacha is 22.9199.

The rate constantly fluctuates depending on the destination currency and the market conditions, so timing your transfer can help you save a lot of money.

Sometimes, waiting a day or two can help you get more ZMW.

If you do need to send ZMW now, we suggest using Revolut. Their rate for ZMW transfers is the best (K23.0697 per 1 USD).

The cheapest way to pay for your transfer to Zambia is via bank transfer with Revolut. It is 1.81% cheaper than the next best option.

The way you pay affects the cost, speed, and the amount of ZMW you receive.

Here are your cheapest options:

*Based on a $7,000 transfer to Zambia.

Avoid using a credit card option when sending money to Zambia, as it’s the most expensive.

Credit card transfers to Zambia come with cash advance fees and higher interest rates on ZMW.

When possible, avoid sending ZMW over the SWIFT network. Despite its name, SWIFT transfers to Zambia are slower with steeper fees.

Some services have limits on how much you can transfer, both minimum and maximum thresholds.

Different services might offer better rates or lower fees for different transfer amounts.

For example, we recommend using Revolut if you need to send large amounts of ZMW abroad.

In general, the quicker you need ZMW delivered, the more it will cost you in fees.

Transfer speed to Zambia depends on the ZMW amount, the time you initiate the transfer, and your payment method.

Take, for instance, an urgent need to transfer $7,000 from the US to Zambia.

Overall, of 5 companies serving Zambia, Xoom is the fastest regardless of the deposit method right now.

For bank or debit card deposits, services like Xoom are great, offering near-instantaneous ZMW transfers with $0 - $0 fees respectively and 2.3% markup.

If you urgently need to transfer money to Zambia, cash pickup will be the fastest, via Western Union or Ria Money.

Avoid SWIFT for ZMW transfers as it's slower due to intermediary banks in Zambia.

Online

You can transfer money to Zambia with a money transfer provider. You can either choose to use a managed service like an FX broker, or an online-only company.

Revolut is the overall best online money transfer company for ZMW transfers right now.

App

Most money transfer services supporting Zambia transfers have an app, often, offering a better ZMW rate. You can use our guide to the best money transfer apps to find the one that fits your needs.

In-person

Cash transfers to Zambia in person via Ria Money Transfers or Western Union are almost always instant, but require the recipient to visit the nearest agent to collect ZMW.

Money orders

Another option is to send a money order using the postal service in your country. It is a less accepted method but often can be sent to harder-to-reach locations.

There are different ways to receive money in Zambia. You can make a direct bank deposit, send cash for pickup or home delivery, or use a mobile wallet.

If you want a direct transfer to your bank account, Revolut offers the best service for bank deposits to Zambia.

And if you need cash right away, check if cash pickup is an option in Zambia.

Mobile wallet services and payment apps like PayPal and Xoom are popular too, but they come with more limitations and higher costs compared to money transfer providers like Revolut.

Please also note that CashApp is not available in Zambia.

To receive money in Zambia, you will need:

• Valid forms of ID: this could be a National ID, passport, or driving license.

• Sender's information: the full name and address of the sender.

• Transfer details: the amount of ZMW to be received.

• Transfer reference number: will be needed for cash pickup or home delivery.

When you're sending or receiving money in Zambia, you have to be ready to share some documents.

The exact documents you need might vary by the company you use. Usually, you will have to:

• Show a government ID like a passport or driver's license.

• Give your contact details such as phone number and email address.

You will also need the recipients' details in Zambia. Sometimes this may include an IBAN or a SWIFT code depending on your payment method.

If you're making a large transaction to Zambia, a provider may ask you for proof of address (e.g. a phone or utility bill) and your source of funds (e.g. a bank statement).

That’s why we suggest Revolut in this case. They know how to handle large ZMW transfers and will help you get things done fast.

There might be tax implications to consider when sending money to Zambia.

Some ZMW transfers may need to be reported to tax authorities, especially for larger amounts.

When in doubt, please contact a tax professional in your country or in Zambia.