Transfer Money to Spain – Complete 2025 Guide for Expats & Property Buyers
Whether you’re buying a villa in Marbella, retiring in Málaga, or simply sending funds to family, knowing the best way to transfer money to Spain is essential.
With thousands of expats moving each year, billions are transferred from the UK, Europe, and the US into Spain. But many lose money unnecessarily due to hidden bank fees, poor exchange rates, and lack of planning.
This complete guide will explain how to transfer money to Spain safely and cost-effectively, compare the main options, and show you how to save thousands—especially when buying property or receiving pensions.
👉 Ready to transfer money now?
Why People Transfer Money to Spain
🏡 Property purchases: Buying a house, apartment, or villa.
👵 Pension transfers: Retirees moving monthly income.
👨👩👧 Family support: Sending money to relatives.
💼 Business transactions: Paying for services or investments.
In each case, the method you choose to transfer money to Spain can have a huge financial impact.
Options to Transfer Money to Spain in 2025
1. Banks
❌ High fees (£20–£50 per transfer).
❌ Poor exchange rates (2–4% margin).
❌ Slow transfers (3–5 days).
✅ Familiar and convenient.
👉 Verdict: Banks are the worst option for large transfers (property, pensions).
2. Online Money Apps (Wise, Revolut, PayPal)
✅ Lower fees than banks.
✅ Fast, app-based, easy setup.
✅ Good for small/medium transfers (£100–£10,000).
❌ Limited support for very large sums (£100k+).
❌ Not designed for property transactions.
👉 Verdict: Great for small regular payments, not for buying property in Spain.
3. Currency Specialists
✅ Best exchange rates, close to mid-market.
✅ No transfer fees.
✅ FCA-regulated for security.
✅ Personal account managers.
✅ Forward contracts to lock rates for months.
Designed for large transfers (£100k–£500k+).
👉 Verdict: The best way to transfer money to Spain for property buyers and retirees.
Cost Comparison – Bank vs App vs Specialist
| Transfer £200,000 | Bank | Online App | Currency Specialist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exchange Margin | 3% (£6,000) | 1% (£2,000) | 0.5% (£1,000) |
| Fees | £40 | £10–£30 | £0 |
| Support | Limited | App only | Personal manager |
| Speed | 3–5 days | 1–2 days | 1–2 days |
👉 Choosing the best way to transfer money to Spain can save you over £5,000 on a single property purchase.
Step-by-Step – How to Transfer Money to Spain
Open an account with an FCA-regulated provider.
Plan your payments: deposit, final balance, taxes.
Compare rates with your bank and see the difference.
Lock in your exchange rate with a forward contract.
Send funds securely in time for completion.
Transferring Large Sums (£100k+)
Buying property often means moving £100k–£500k+. This requires special planning.
👉 Read more:
Pension Transfers to Spain
Many retirees lose £1,000+ per year transferring pensions via banks. The best way to transfer pensions to Spain is through regular payment plans with currency specialists.
👉 Read more:
Common Mistakes to Avoid!
Using banks without checking rates.
Waiting until the last minute.
Sending lump sums with no planning.
Not securing exchange rates in advance.
👉 Avoid these and your money transfers to Spain will be smooth and cost-effective.
FAQs – Transfer Money to Spain
❓ What is the cheapest way to transfer money to Spain?
Usually via currency specialists, as they have better rates and no fees.
❓ Is it safe to transfer £500,000 to Spain?
Yes—if you use an FCA-regulated provider with segregated client accounts.
❓ How long does it take to transfer money to Spain?
1–2 working days with specialists; 3–5 days with banks.
❓ Can I transfer money to Spain regularly?
Yes, with regular payment plans for pensions or monthly expenses.
Best Way to Transfer Money to Spain
Transferring money abroad doesn’t have to be stressful—or expensive.
By avoiding banks, comparing your options, and using FCA-regulated currency specialists, you can save thousands when you transfer money to Spain—whether it’s for buying property, receiving pensions, or supporting family.