Thinking of sending money overseas? Western Union is a go-to for many when it comes to international money transfers.
Whether you’re sending funds to family, helping out a friend abroad, or paying for overseas services, Western Union offers flexibility and convenience. It’s fast, accessible, and available almost everywhere – including right here in Singapore.
But with fees, limits, and exchange rates to consider, how do you make sure you’re getting the best deal? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Western Union Singapore, including fees, limits, tracking and alternatives, so you can transfer money smarter.
💡 Exploring alternatives? YouTrip is another great option for overseas transfers, offering the best rates, no hidden fees, and some of the lowest transfer costs on the market. Start saving on your international money transfers today!
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📚 Table of Contents: Western Union Singapore
- What is Western Union
- Exchange Rate
- Transfer Fees
- Transfer Limits in Singapore
- How to Send Money with Western Union on The App
- Tracking
- How to Collect Money from Western Union
- Western Union vs Alternatives
- FAQs
What is Western Union?
Image credits: PYMNTS.com
Western Union is a global leader in money transfer services, operating in 200+ countries and territories. With options for bank transfers, cash pickups, and mobile wallet transfers, it’s a versatile platform that works for a variety of needs.
4 Ways to Send Money with Western Union Singapore
You can send money in four ways:
- 1️⃣ Online: Sign up or log in to Western Union’s website to send money online. Use payment options like your debit card, digital wallet, or other online payment methods.
- 2️⃣ In-App: Send money with the Western Union app. Pay through the app, start a transfer online, and finish it in-store, or save your frequent recipients for quick transfers later.
- 3️⃣ In-Person: Send money in person at a Western Union agent location.
- 4️⃣ Online + In-Person: Start your payment online and pay in a Western Union agent location
🧠 Tip: Always verify transfer details before confirming
📖 Related guide: Find out more about DBS Remit here
Western Union Key Features:
- Covers 200+ countries and territories
- Multiple transfer options
- Fast transfers depending on the destination and method of transfer
- 24/7 availability
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Western Union Exchange Rate
Western Union applies a markup to the mid-market exchange rate, a.k.a the rate you’d typically find on Google or other financial platforms. This means an additional percentage fee is added to the rate you’d receive.
Here’s a look at Western Union’s exchange rates for popular currencies. We’ll be adding YouTrip to the mix as a comparison:
| Currency | YouTrip 👑 | Western Union |
|---|---|---|
| MYR | S$1 = 3.297 MYR | S$1 = 3.283 MYR |
| IDR | S$1 = 11,890 IDR | S$1 = 11,890 IDR |
| INR | S$1 = 62.53 INR | S$1 = 62.36 INR |
| PHP | S$1 = 42.96 PHP | S$1 = 42.76 PHP |
| USD | S$1 = 0.7358 USD | S$1 = 0.7345 USD |
| EUR | S$1 = 0.7082 EUR | S$1 = 0.7062 EUR |
*Rates taken as of 24 Dec 2024
🧠 Always compare exchange rates with other platforms before sending large amounts
📖 Learn more: How to send money from Singapore to Malaysia here
Western Union Transfer Fees
Western Union’s fees depend on several factors, such as the transfer amount, payment method, and transfer destination.
Using the exchange rates above and factoring in the fees, here’s how much you’d be paying to transfer S$1,000 to your recipient’s bank account for the following currencies:`
| Currencies | YouTrip 👑 | Western Union |
|---|---|---|
| MYR | S$1,000 = 3,292.77 MYR Fees included: S$1.28 | S$1,000 = 3,273.15 MYR Fees included: S$3 |
| IDR | S$1,000 = 11,863,196 IDR Fees included: S$2.36 | S$1,000 = 11,854,330 IDR Fees included: S$3 |
| INR | S$1,000 = 62,344.91 INR Fees included: S$2.96 | S$1,000 = 62,172.92 INR Fees included: S$3 |
| PHP | S$1,000 = 42,766.25 PHP Fees included: S$4.51 | S$1,000 = 42,631.72 PHP Fees included: S$3 |
| USD | S$1,000 = 732.78 USD Fees included: S$4.10 | S$1,000 = 730.82 USD Fees included: S$5 |
| EUR | SS$1,000 = 705.85 EUR Fess included: S$3.31 | S$1,000 = 702.66 EUR Fees included: S$5 |
*Rates taken as of 25 Dec 2024
Tip: Pay with PayNow or Bank Transfer for lower fees. You may get hit with higher fees when using a debit or credit card as your method of payment.
*Note: Only your first Western Union online transfer is fee-free when you pay with PayNow or Bank Transfer. Fees, exchange rates, and taxes are subject to change.
📖 Find out: How to send money overseas with YouTrip here
Western Union Transfers Limits in Singapore
- PayNow to Bank Account: Up to S$20,000 per transfer
- Other Payment Methods: Up to S$5,000 per transfer
If you need to transfer a larger amount, you’ll have to visit a Western Union agent location in Singapore. Note that each agent sets its own transfer limit, so you’ll need to call ahead and confirm the details. However, arranging your transfer in person may incur a slightly higher fee compared to arranging your transfer online.
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How to Send Money with Western Union on The App
1️⃣ Download the Western Union app > Log in or register with your email address
2️⃣ Enter your recipient’s details, the destination country & the amount you’d like to send
3️⃣ Choose your preferred payout method
- Cash, direct to bank, or mobile wallet (if applicable)
- If you’re sending directly to a bank account, enter your recipient’s bank name, code & account number
4️⃣ Verify your profile with your ID details > upload a picture of yourself to complete the verification process
5️⃣ Complete your transfer payment > track your transfer with a confirmation email
📖 Read all about: Revolut Singapore (2025): The Ultimate Guide To The Revolut Card, Account & Fees
Western Union Tracking
You can track your transfer online or in-app using your Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN). Simply input the number to see status updates.
The tracking feature provides detailed information on the transfer status, including when the money has been sent, is in transit, and has been received. You can also receive notifications via email or the app to stay updated in real-time.
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How to Collect Money from Western Union
1️⃣ Locate a Western Union agent nearby using Google Maps or the Western Union website
2️⃣ Bring a valid ID such as a passport, NRIC, or driving license
3️⃣ Provide the MTCN and sender details, including the sender’s full name and the expected transfer amount
4️⃣ Verify your identity with the agent if required. Some locations may ask additional security questions.
5️⃣ Receive your cash: Funds are usually available within minutes, though times may vary depending on the country, transfer method, and agent location.
For added convenience, some Western Union locations allow scheduled pickups or partial withdrawals. Always double-check the transfer details and keep your MTCN on hand.
📖 Here’s everything you need to know about the HSBC Everyday Global Account (HSBC EGA) Singapore
Alternative Options: Send Money Overseas with The Best Rates via YouTrip
Send money overseas to 40+ countries with the best rates all day and no hidden fees with YouTrip. Experience same-day or even instant transfers for popular currencies with Duitnow, GCash, and UPI — with no cut-off timings anytime, any day.
Here’s a six-step guide on how to send money overseas with YouTrip:
1️⃣ Sign up for YouTrip
🌟 Don’t have an account yet? Sign up now and use the promo code <YTBLOG5> for free S$5!
2️⃣ Top up your YouTrip wallet with a Linked Bank Account (eGIRO) or PayNow to ensure your SGD wallet has sufficient funds
3️⃣ Click ‘Transfer’ > ‘Transfer Overseas’ > Select the desired currency you wish to transfer
4️⃣ Enter the amount you want to transfer in SGD > Choose your preferred transfer method based on the destination you’re transferring to:
- Bank Account
- DuitNow
- Gcash
- UPI
5️⃣ Tap ‘Set Up Transfer’ > ‘+ Add Recipient’ and enter the required details
6️⃣ Slide to transfer and voilà! Your recipient will receive the money in their local currency, hassle-free!
📖 All You Need To Know About Sending Money Overseas: Check out our guide to the best multi-currency cards for the biggest savings here
Western Union FAQs:
1. How much does Western Union charge per $100?
Expect S$3–S$5 depending on payment and destination.
2. What is the limit of Western Union transfers in Singapore?
S$20,000 via PayNow, S$5,000 via other methods.
3. Can I track my transfer?
Yes, use the MTCN online or in the app.
4. How do I collect money from Western Union?
Visit an agent, bring ID, and provide the MTCN.
5. Are there Western Union locations near me?
Yes, use Google Maps or Western Union’s locator tool.
6. What’s the Western Union exchange rate like?
It includes a markup. Always compare rates with competitors like YouTrip for more competitive exchange rates.
Save More on Your Overseas Transfers with YouTrip
Sending money overseas has never been easier, faster, or more affordable. With YouTrip, you’re in control of every aspect of your transfer — from getting the best exchange rates to low transfer fees.
Ready to get started? Sign up today with <YTBLOG5> to get FREE S$5 in your account and experience a smarter way to transfer money internationally!
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Bon voyage!
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