💸 Money Transfer
Wise
A widely used international money transfer service known for transparent fees and real mid-market exchange rates. About Wise: Wise (formerly TransferWise) is a UK-founded international money transfer platform that lets users send money between countries and hold balances in multiple currencies, using the real exchange rate rather than a marked-up rate. Key Features: Real Exchange Rate: Uses the actual mid-market rate, with fees shown upfront and separately. Multi-Currency Account: Hold and convert between dozens of currencies in one account. Wise Card: A debit card that can be used for spending abroad, drawing from your Wise balance. Fast Transfers: Many transfers arrive within minutes to a couple of days, depending on the corridor. How to Get Started: Create a Wise account and verify your identity with your ID or passport. Add the recipient's bank details and the amount to send. Pay in from your bank account or card and confirm the transfer. Track the transfer's status until it arrives. Important Notice: China's currency controls and banking system can add friction to receiving international transfers into a Chinese bank account — check current transfer limits and receiving requirements before relying on Wise for larger amounts into China.
Remitly
An international remittance app focused on fast, affordable transfers, particularly popular for sending money home from abroad. About Remitly: Remitly specializes in cross-border remittances — sending money from one country to family or others in another — with a mobile-first app experience and a choice between faster and cheaper delivery speeds for each transfer. Key Features: Speed vs. Cost Choice: Pick an "Express" faster option or an "Economy" cheaper option for each transfer. Multiple Payout Methods: Recipients can often receive funds via bank deposit, depending on the country. Rate Transparency: See the exchange rate and fee before confirming the transfer. First-Transfer Promotions: New users are often offered a discounted or fee-free first transfer. How to Get Started: Download the Remitly app and create an account, verifying your identity. Enter the recipient's details and choose a payout method available in China. Select Express or Economy speed and review the total cost. Pay from your card or bank account and track the transfer to delivery. Important Notice: China's currency controls affect international remittances into Chinese bank accounts — check current limits and any required documentation for the receiving bank before sending, especially for larger amounts.
Western Union
One of the world's oldest and most widely available money transfer networks, with both cash pickup and digital options. About Western Union: Western Union has operated international money transfers for well over a century and maintains one of the largest physical agent networks in the world, alongside its own app and website for digital transfers. Key Features: Wide Agent Network: Cash pickup and transfer locations available in most countries worldwide. Multiple Send Methods: Transfer from the app, website, or in person at an agent location. Flexible Payout: Recipients can often choose cash pickup or bank deposit depending on the country. Established Trust: Long operating history and broad regulatory recognition across markets. How to Get Started: Use the Western Union app, website, or visit a physical agent location. Enter the recipient's details and choose how they'll receive the funds. Pay by card, bank transfer, or cash at an agent location. Share the tracking number (MTCN) with your recipient if they need it for pickup. Important Notice: China's currency and banking controls significantly affect both sending and receiving international transfers — check current regulations and any required documentation before relying on Western Union for transfers into or out of Chinese bank accounts.