Money

Money in international Settings

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Scope of this Page

When moving internationally Funds need to be transferred across borders. This guide focuses primarily on people moving away from the United States, but also covers general principles applicable worldwide.

Considerations

Before deciding on a method for moving funds, several important factors should be evaluated:

Costs

• Transfer fees vary widely depending on the provider and method chosen.
• Some transfers involve intermediary banks, which may impose additional hidden charges.
• Foreign transaction fees may apply, depending on the sending and receiving financial institutions.

Exchange Rates and fees

• Exchange rates fluctuate and can significantly impact the amount received in the destination currency.
• Some providers offer better exchange rates than traditional banks.
• Consider whether the provider charges a margin on the exchange rate in addition to transfer fees.

Tax Implications and official surveillance

• Moving large sums of money internationally may trigger tax reporting requirements in both the origin and destination countries.
• The U.S. has strict regulations on foreign bank accounts (FBAR reporting) and FATCA compliance. Any account above 10.000US$ during any moment in the year needs to be reported to stay in compliance [1]
• Some countries impose exit taxes or require declarations for significant fund transfers.

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Options for Transferring Funds Internationally

Wise (formerly TransferWise)

What is Wise?

Wise is a company that specializes in low-cost international money transfers. It is using local bank accounts in multiple countries and has low exchange rates, especially for lower amounts, because it doesn't charge a base fee.

What Can You Do with Wise?

• Send money internationally at mid-market exchange rates with low, transparent fees.
• Hold and convert multiple currencies in a Wise multi-currency account.
• Obtain a Wise debit card for global spending.
• Receive payments in different currencies as if you had local bank accounts in those countries.

Limitations of Wise

• It is a legally operating money service, transfers will show up on the records
• Transfers may take longer if sent from or to banks with additional security procedures.
• Not all currencies or countries are supported.
• Large transfers may require additional identity verification or documentation.
• It is not a real bank account, the money is not secured - in case of a bankruptcy everything might be gone

Classical Bank Transfer (Wire Transfer)

Overview

A wire transfer via a traditional bank the standard method for moving large sums internationally. How easy and how expensive this is depends highly on the cooperation and local regulations in both countries.

Advantages

• Secure and globally recognized.
• Suitable for large transactions.
• Some banks offer direct international wire services with preferential rates for account holders.

Disadvantages

• Completely relying on the laws of the countries, so it will be easily detected from either government.
• Typically involves high fees from both sending and receiving banks.
• Exchange rates often bad.
• Processing times can vary, sometimes taking several business days.