Q. How long does a wire transfer take?
Most international bank transfers are completed within 1-2 business days, depending on the recipient’s bank.
Q. What documents are required for an education transfer?
You’ll need to upload documents such as an admission letter, passport, and remittance form.
Q. What is an International Wire Transfer?
An international wire transfer is an electronic transfer of funds from one bank account to another across countries. It is commonly used to send money abroad for purposes like education, family maintenance, and gifts. Transfers are typically processed through the SWIFT network or other secure payment systems.
Q. What is the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS)?
The Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) allows Indian residents to remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year for permitted purposes such as:
- Education expenses
- Family maintenance
- GIFT transactions
- Overseas travel
- Investment in foreign stocks and properties
LRS is governed by FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) regulations and applies to individuals, including minors.
Q. What is the Maximum Limit for Wire Transfers Under LRS?
Under the LRS limit, Indian residents can transfer up to USD 250,000 per financial year for all permissible transactions. This limit is cumulative and applies to various purposes such as education, gifts, and maintenance. Exceeding this limit requires special approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Q. Are There Any Restrictions on the Purpose of International Wire Transfers?
Yes, certain purposes are restricted under LRS and FEMA guidelines. Prohibited transactions include:
- Remittances for lotteries or gambling activities
- Remittances to countries identified as high-risk by FATF
- Investment in margin trading, forex trading, or cryptocurrency
Always ensure that the transfer of money internationally complies with RBI guidelines.
Q. What Documents Are Required for an International Wire Transfer for Education?
For education-related transfers, you typically need to submit:
- Admission letter from the foreign university
- Student’s passport
- Proof of fees or tuition invoice
- Form A2 (RBI remittance form)
These documents ensure compliance with FEMA regulations for international bank transfers.
Q. How Long Does an International Wire Transfer Take?
A swift money transfer typically takes 1-2 business days to reach the recipient’s bank, depending on the country and the bank’s processing times. Some delays may occur due to weekends, holidays, or compliance checks required by the receiving bank.
Q. Can I Lock in an Exchange Rate Before Sending Money Internationally?
Yes, we offer a rate locking feature that allows you to secure the exchange rate for up to 30 minutes before completing your transaction. This helps protect against market fluctuations during your international currency transfer.
Q. What Are the Tax Implications of Sending Money Abroad Under LRS?
Under LRS, the following tax implications apply:
- A Tax Collected at Source (TCS) of 5% is applicable on education remittances exceeding INR 7 lakhs in a financial year.
- For education purposes financed through loans, TCS is reduced to 0.5% on the amount exceeding INR 7 lakhs.
- A Tax Collected at Source (TCS) of 20% is applicable on all remittances other than education payment exceeding INR 7 lakhs in a financial year.
Ensure you factor in these tax considerations when planning your overseas money transfer.
Q. How Can I Track My International Wire Transfer?
You can track your international wire payment through our platform. Once the transfer is initiated, you will receive:
- A transaction reference number
- Real-time updates via SMS and email
- Access to a tracking portal for monitoring the status of your wire funds transfer.
Q. What Are the Charges for an International Wire Transfer?
Our platform offers competitive exchange rates and low transfer fees for all international wire transfers.
- No hidden fees or charges
- No transfer fees for first-time users (limited time offer)
- Transparent pricing for all swift bank transfers
Please note that recipient banks may charge a nominal fee for processing the funds.
Q. Can I Transfer Money from India to Canada for Family Maintenance?
Yes, under LRS, you can transfer funds from India to Canada for family maintenance, up to the permissible limit of USD 250,000 per financial year. Ensure you provide the required documentation, such as proof of relationship and the recipient’s bank details.
Q. What Is a SWIFT Code, and Why Is It Required for International Wire Transfers?
A SWIFT code is an 8 or 11-character identifier used globally to identify a specific bank during a swift wire transfer. It ensures that funds are routed to the correct bank for international money transfers.
- Example: ICICINBBXXX (ICICI Bank, India)
The SWIFT code is mandatory for almost all international bank transfers.
Q. What Is an IBAN, and Which Countries Require It?
The International Bank Account Number (IBAN) is a unique identifier used for international monetary transfers within Europe and some other regions. It includes the country code, bank code, and account number, ensuring accurate fund transfers.
Countries where IBAN is mandatory:
- All European Union (EU) countries
- United Kingdom
- United Arab Emirates
- Saudi Arabia
- Turkey
Example of an IBAN: GB29NWBK60161331926819 (UK)
Q. What Is a Sort Code, and Where Is It Required?
A Sort Code is a 6-digit number used in the UK and Ireland to identify a specific bank branch for domestic and international wire transfers. It is commonly used alongside the account number for wire funds transfers within the UK.
Countries where Sort Code is required:
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
Example: 12-34-56 (Sort code for a UK bank)
Q. What Is a BSB Code, and Which Country Uses It?
A BSB (Bank State Branch) Code is a 6-digit identifier used in Australia for domestic and international bank transfers. It identifies the bank and branch where the account is held.
Country where BSB is required:
- Australia
Example: 123-456 (BSB code for an Australian bank)
Q. What Is a Transit Code, and Where Is It Used?
A Transit Code is a 5-digit number used in Canada to identify a specific bank branch for international currency transfers. It is often used alongside the bank’s institution number and account number.
Country where Transit Code is required:
- Canada
Example: 00012 (Transit code for a Canadian bank)
Q. What Is a Routing Number, and Which Countries Use It?
A Routing Number is a 9-digit code used in the United States to identify financial institutions for domestic and international funds transfers. It ensures accurate processing of payments through the ACH (Automated Clearing House) or wire transfer system.
Country where Routing Number is required:
- United States
Example: 021000021 (Routing number for a US bank)
Q. How Can I Find My SWIFT, IBAN, Sort Code, or Routing Number?
You can find these banking identifiers:
- SWIFT and IBAN: On your bank statement or the bank’s website
- Sort Code: On the bank’s website or account details in the UK
- Routing Number: Printed on the bottom of US checks
- Transit Code and BSB: Available on the bank’s online platform
Alternatively, contact your bank for assistance.
Q. Can I Send Money Abroad Without a SWIFT Code or IBAN?
No, in most cases, a SWIFT code or IBAN is mandatory for secure and accurate international wire transfers. For countries that do not use IBAN, such as the USA or Canada, a Routing Number or Transit Code is required.
Q. Are IBAN and SWIFT Code the Same Thing?
No, they are different:
- IBAN: Identifies a specific bank account, primarily used in Europe and the Middle East.
- SWIFT Code: Identifies the bank and branch globally for international transfers.
Both are often required for international bank transfers.
Q. What Happens If I Enter the Wrong IBAN or SWIFT Code?
Entering incorrect banking details can result in:
- Transfer delays
- Funds being returned to the sender’s account
- Loss of funds in some cases
Always double-check the recipient’s details before completing a swift money transfer or international bank transfer.