Send Money India: How to Transfer Funds Fast and Cheap

When you need to send money India, a direct transfer of funds from one country to another, often by individuals supporting family or businesses. Also known as remittance, it’s one of the most common financial actions for Indians abroad and those receiving funds from overseas. Whether you’re an NRI sending home, a freelancer getting paid, or a small business owner paying suppliers, how you send money makes a big difference in cost, speed, and safety.

There are more ways to send money India, a direct transfer of funds from one country to another, often by individuals supporting family or businesses. Also known as remittance, it’s one of the most common financial actions for Indians abroad and those receiving funds from overseas than ever before. Traditional banks charge high fees and take days, while digital services like Wise, Remitly, and PayPal can do it in minutes for a fraction of the cost. Many people still use hawala or cash agents out of habit, but those come with risks—no paper trail, no protection, no recourse if something goes wrong. The best option depends on how much you’re sending, how fast you need it, and where the recipient lives. If they have a bank account, digital transfers win. If they need cash in hand, local agents or mobile wallets like Paytm or PhonePe might be better.

When you send money to India, you’re not just moving cash—you’re dealing with rules. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) tracks all incoming remittances. If you’re sending over ₹7 lakh in a year, you’ll need to provide proof of source. Some services require your passport or visa details. And exchange rates? They’re not fixed. A 1% difference on ₹1 lakh is ₹1,000. That’s lunch money for a family for a week. Always compare rates, not just fees. Look at the total amount the recipient gets, not just what you pay upfront.

Don’t forget the recipient’s side. If they don’t have a bank account, they can still receive money through digital wallets, post offices, or cash pickup points. Many services now let you send money directly to a mobile number or Aadhaar-linked account. And if you’re sending regularly, look for services that offer recurring transfers with locked-in rates. It saves time and money over the long run.

You’ll find posts below that cover everything from how to open an Indian bank account online to what happens when you send money from the US or UAE. We’ve tested the services, checked the fees, and talked to people who do this every month. No theory. Just what works.