How to Send Money from Poland? If you work or live in Poland, at some point you may need to send money abroad. This could be to support your family, pay for services, or transfer savings. There are several options available. Each has its advantages and costs. Below we explain the main ways to send money from Poland, so you can choose the best one for your needs.
Bank transfers (traditional banks)
Polish banks allow you to make international transfers in PLN, EUR, USD, GBP and other currencies. This is known as a foreign transfer (przelew zagraniczny).
How it works
You provide the recipient’s details, including name, IBAN or account number, SWIFT/BIC code, and address. You can usually do this through online banking, at a branch, or via mobile app.
Fees
Bank fees for foreign transfers can vary widely. A typical cost is between PLN 20 and PLN 200, depending on the destination and currency. In addition, banks often apply a margin on the exchange rate, which can make the transfer more expensive.
Transfer time
International bank transfers usually take one to three business days to arrive, depending on the destination country and bank.
Tip
When sending EUR to another EU country, choose a SEPA transfer. SEPA transfers are faster and often cheaper, with fees typically between PLN 0 and PLN 20.
Online money transfer services
Many people in Poland choose online services to send money abroad. These services usually offer better exchange rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks.
Examples of services
Wise (formerly TransferWise), Revolut, PaySend, Remitly, Western Union online.
How it works
You create an account on the provider’s platform. You enter the recipient’s details and send PLN. The provider converts it and transfers it in the desired currency.
Fees
Fees are generally transparent and lower than banks. Services like Wise and Revolut show the full cost before you confirm the transfer. The exchange rate is close to the mid-market rate.
Transfer time
In many cases the transfer is completed on the same day or the next business day.
Tip
Check both the transfer fee and the exchange rate offered. The total cost is what matters most.
Cash transfer services
If your recipient does not have a bank account, you can send cash using international cash transfer services.
Examples of services
Western Union, MoneyGram.
How it works
You pay at a service point or online. The recipient collects the cash at an agent location in their country.
Fees
Cash transfers often have higher fees than bank or online transfers. These services are convenient but can be expensive.
Transfer time
Money is usually available within minutes or a few hours.
Tip
Cash transfers are useful for emergencies or where banking options are limited.
Transfers via fintech apps
If both you and the recipient use the same app, you can send money instantly and at little or no cost.
Examples of apps
Revolut, PayPal.
How it works
You send money directly through the app to the recipient’s account.
Fees
Transfers between users of the same app are typically free. However, currency conversion fees may apply if you send in a different currency.
Transfer time
Transfers are usually instant.
Tip
These apps work well for smaller, personal transfers between friends or family.
What to check before sending money
Before you choose a method to send money from Poland, consider the following:
- The total cost of the transfer, including fees and exchange rate margins.
- How fast the money will reach the recipient.
- The exact recipient details (name, IBAN, SWIFT, or account number) to avoid delays.
- Whether it is better to send in PLN or the recipient’s local currency.
It is worth comparing several providers, especially if you send money regularly.
Example comparison
| Method | Typical fee | Speed | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank SWIFT transfer | PLN 50–200 | 1–3 days | Large amounts, business |
| SEPA transfer | PLN 0–20 | 1 day | EUR to EU countries |
| Wise | Low fee | 0–1 day | Regular transfers, good rates |
| Revolut | Free or low fee | Instant | Friends or family with app |
| Western Union cash | Higher fee | Minutes | Cash pickup, no bank account |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending money without checking the real exchange rate.
- Using a SWIFT transfer when a cheaper SEPA transfer is possible.
- Making errors in recipient details, which can delay or block the transfer.
- Not comparing options — fees and exchange rates differ a lot between services.
Final thoughts about how to send money from Poland
Sending money from Poland is simple once you understand your options. For small, personal transfers, services like Wise or Revolut are often the best choice. For large sums, banks may feel safer but are more expensive. Cash transfer services are useful for urgent needs but come with higher costs.
Always check the total cost of the transfer and choose the method that offers the best balance between speed, price, and convenience.
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