Send Money Abroad from South Africa
Stop losing money to bank spreads. Compare forex specialists and digital platforms for international transfers from South Africa — SARB compliant, better rates, lower fees.
How Much Are You Losing to Bank Exchange Rates?
If you send R100,000 abroad:
Bank SWIFT
2–4% spread + R300–800 fee
You lose ~R2,800–R4,800
Forex Specialist
0.5–1.5% spread + low/no fee
You save ~R1,500–R3,500
Illustrative calculation. Actual savings depend on currency pair, amount and provider.
Options for Sending Money Abroad
Forex Specialist Brokers
Typical cost: 0% commission + 0.5–1.5% spread
Speed: 1–2 business days
Examples: OFX, Currency Partners, TFG, Rand Merchant Bank FX
Best for: Large transfers: property, investment, business payments (R50K+)
Digital Remittance Platforms
Typical cost: Flat fee + small spread
Speed: Minutes to hours (cash pickup / mobile money)
Examples: WorldRemit, Mukuru, Mama Money, Azimo
Best for: Personal remittances to family abroad, recurring small transfers
Bank SWIFT Transfer
Typical cost: R200–R800 + 2–4% spread
Speed: 2–5 business days
Examples: All major SA banks
Best for: When recipient bank requires SWIFT only
Compare International Transfer Rates
See live forex rates and compare transfer costs before you send.
Compare Forex Rates →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to send money abroad from South Africa?
Forex specialist brokers (like OFX, TFG/Rand Merchant Bank, Currency Partners) typically offer 2–5% better exchange rates than banks plus lower transfer fees. For smaller amounts and personal remittances, digital platforms like WorldRemit, Mukuru, and Mama Money offer competitive rates to SADC countries and global destinations.
Do I need SARB approval to send money abroad from South Africa?
SA residents can send up to R1 million per year via the Single Discretionary Allowance with no tax clearance required. For amounts above R1M (up to R10M), a SARS tax compliance status (TCS) pin is required. Business payments require commercial documentation. All transfers must go through an authorised dealer (bank or registered forex provider).
How long does an international transfer take from South Africa?
SWIFT bank transfers take 2–5 business days. Forex specialist brokers typically settle in 1–2 business days. Digital remittance platforms can be minutes to hours for cash pickup or mobile money destinations. Timelines depend on the destination country, intermediary banks and recipient banking system.
Ready to send money abroad?
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