Fastest Way To Receive International Payments

In today's interconnected world, receiving international payments quickly and efficiently is crucial for individuals and businesses alike. In this blog, we will explore the fastest methods available to receive international payments in South Africa. We will also address common questions such as the time it takes to receive international payments, the duration of receiving money from the European Union (EU), and the processing time for IBAN transfers.

1. How many days does it take to receive an international payment?

The time it takes to receive an international payment in South Africa can vary anywhere from a couple days to a couple weeks depending on the provider and method used. For bank transfers, SEPA payments from Europe to major banks like Standard Bank, FNB, and Nedbank can reflect in recipient accounts within 1-3 business days. However, a bank like Capitec may take 3-5 days for SEPA transfers.

For SWIFT wire transfers, the major retail banks in South Africa generally take 3-7 business days to receive funds from overseas. This includes Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank and Capitec. The exact duration can depend on the specific countries and banks involved.

However, using international money transfer services like WorldRemit and Western Union can significantly speed up international payments. WorldRemit offers options to send funds directly to bank accounts in South Africa, which can be received within a few hours for many corridors. Western Union enables real-time money transfers within minutes through its extensive cash pickup network across South Africa.

2. How long does it take to receive money from the EU?

For payments sent from the European Union, most major banks in South Africa can receive SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) transfers within 1-3 business days. Banks like Standard Bank, FNB, and Nedbank are generally able to credit SEPA payments from the EU in 1-3 days. However, Capitec bank may take slightly longer at 3-5 days to receive SEPA transfers from Europe.

The use of digital money transfer services can often reduce these timelines further. Both WorldRemit and Western Union can deliver funds from the EU either to bank accounts or cash pickup locations much faster than traditional bank routes. This makes them preferable options for urgent payments from Europe.

3. How long does an IBAN transfer take?

International wire transfers using IBAN (International Bank Account Number) can take anywhere between 1-5 business days on average via banks in South Africa. However, the exact duration for IBAN transfers depends on a variety of factors. These include the specific banks involved for the sender and recipient, currency of transfer, and any intermediary banks in the payment flow.

While bank IBAN transfers may take up to a week, international services like WorldRemit and Western Union can expedite IBAN payments. They utilize faster electronic networks rather than traditional correspondent banking. Therefore, IBAN transfers through digital providers may be received within hours or a couple of days in South Africa.

Fastest Ways to Receive International Payments in South Africa:

a. Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT):

EFT is a widely used method for receiving international payments. It involves electronic transfer of funds from the sender's bank to the recipient's bank account. Depending on the sender's bank and the countries involved, EFT payments can often be received within 2-5 business days.

b. Online Payment Processors:

Utilizing online payment processors such as PayPal, Skrill, or Payoneer can expedite the receipt of international payments. These platforms facilitate secure and fast transfers, allowing funds to be received almost instantaneously once the payment is processed.

c. International Wire Transfers:

International wire transfers, also known as telegraphic transfers, are a traditional method of receiving international payments. While they may take longer than other options, they are still widely used. The processing time for wire transfers varies, but they can typically take 3-7 business days.

4. FiveWest offers the fastest solution to receiving international payments

FiveWest offers a same-day settlement solution making us the fastest way to receive international payments. We use blockchain settlement solutions which are facilitated through decentralized blockchain networks rather than correspondent banks, which enables near instantaneous transfers globally. Blockchain payments also avoid costly intermediary fees and exchange rates charged by banks and remittance companies.

We also offer the most competitive rates which means you get more Rands for any unit of foreign currency you send back to South Africa. To compare our rates, create an account here.

Other FAQs:

How long does it take for money to reflect from Skrill to Nedbank?

Transfers made through Skrill to a foreign currency bank account via Nedbank Online Banking generally take approximately 1 to up to 5 business days for the withdrawal to arrive in your Nedbank account. Keep in mind that the actual transfer time may vary depending on several factors, including the processing speed of both Skrill and Nedbank, the currency involved, and any additional verification or security checks that may be required for the transfer.

How long does an international transfer take with Capitec?

Receiving international transfers with Capitec via SWIFT typically takes 3-7 working days, as suggested by a 2017 Tweet from Capitec. However, the exact duration may vary based on factors such as the source of the funds, the amount transferred, and the processes of individual banks.

To expedite the process and avoid telephonic declarations, the transfer should meet certain criteria: the transfer amount should be under R50,000, the beneficiary's name on the payment must match the account information on Capitec Bank's records, the provided account number should be correct, and the transfer reference should specify a valid reason (e.g., tuition, salary, rental income, gift, pension, alimony, financial assistance). For amounts exceeding R50,000 or not meeting the criteria, the processing time may be longer as Capitec will need to obtain a telephonic declaration from the beneficiary, making the exact duration unclear.

Receiving international payments quickly and efficiently is vital in today's globalized world. While the processing time for international payments can vary, several methods can expedite the transfer of funds to South Africa. Online payment processors, EFT, and wire transfers all offer options for faster receipt of international payments. It is advisable to consider factors such as fees, exchange rates, and the sender's location when choosing the most suitable method. Always consult with your bank or financial institution for accurate information regarding processing times and any specific requirements for receiving international payments.