Best way to send money to India from UK

Sending remittances to India is more than a financial transaction—it is a lifeline that keeps families connected. According to the World Bank, India remained the world’s largest recipient of remittances in 2024, receiving an estimated US$129 billion. These inflows help families in India pay for daily expenses, education, healthcare and emergencies. The United Kingdom and the Netherlands host large Indian‑origin communities that regularly send money home. Choosing the right transfer service can make a significant difference in how much your loved ones receive, how quickly the money arrives and how secure the process is.

ACE Money Transfer is a digital remittance platform regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and is designed to eliminate the pain points of traditional transfers. This detailed guide explores the best ways to send money to India from the UK and shows how you can transfer money to India from the Netherlands with ACE Money Transfer. We’ll discuss exchange rates, fees, payout methods, security, step‑by‑step instructions and tips for maximising value.

Why remittances matter and challenges with traditional methods

The importance of remittances

Remittances contribute significantly to India’s economy. In 2024, official remittance flows to low‑ and middle‑income countries were expected to reach US$ 685 billion, and India was the top recipient. These funds provide a safety net for millions of households and often represent the difference between poverty and financial stability. For migrants in the UK or the Netherlands, remitting money is also an emotional act—a way to support parents, spouses and children.

Limitations of bank wires and cash agents

Historically, people relied on bank wires and cash‑based agents to send money abroad. Bank‑to‑bank wire transfers are still used for large, formal transactions but they typically involve high fees, slow delivery of two to five business days and less favourable exchange rates. Cash agents require senders to visit a physical location and recipients to collect cash in person, which is inconvenient and sometimes risky. Hidden fees, lack of transparency and limited operating hours make these methods unsuitable for regular remittances.

Rise of digital remittance services

Modern remittance services—like ACE Money Transfer—offer a faster, more transparent and cost‑effective alternative. Digital platforms allow users to send money from their phone or computer at any time and provide better exchange rates, lower fees, real‑time tracking and multiple payout options. Choosing the right service, however, involves understanding exchange rates, payment methods, payout options and regulatory compliance.

What makes ACE Money Transfer different?

Competitive and transparent exchange rates

ACE Money Transfer applies independent, market‑based exchange rates without mark‑ups. Real‑time quotes show the rate and final amount before you confirm a transaction. The platform also offers locked‑in rates, allowing you to secure an exchange rate that stays fixed throughout the transaction. This transparency helps maximise the value your recipient receives.

Zero fees from the Netherlands and low fees from the UK

If you are sending money from the Netherlands, ACE charges no transfer fees. Every euro you send reaches your recipient without deductions. For UK transfers, fees are minimal and are clearly displayed before you pay. ACE’s pricing model focuses on competitive rates rather than hidden charges, so you can compare based on the final amount received..

FCA‑regulated security and compliance

Security is crucial when transferring money internationally. ACE Money Transfer is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, ensuring compliance with industry standards and protecting consumers from fraud. The platform uses end‑to‑end encryption and real‑time monitoring and adheres to strict Anti‑Money Laundering (AML) laws. By choosing an FCA‑regulated provider, you benefit from fair treatment, transparent fees and market integrity.

Multiple currencies and global reach

ACE supports 29 sending currencies, including the British pound (GBP) and euro (EUR), and operates in over 100 countries. This means you can transfer money to India from the UK, the Netherlands and other European countries without difficulty.

Diverse payout and funding options

ACE offers several payout methods, allowing recipients to choose how they want to receive funds:

• Bank deposits: Transfer money directly into the recipient’s bank account. ACE supports deposits to major banks such as the State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra and more. Deposits are reliable and ideal for bills, EMIs and savings.
• UPI transfers: Unified Payments Interface (UPI) enables instant fund transfers using a UPI ID instead of account details. ACE supports UPI payouts for fast transactions, making it perfect for recipients who need money urgently or rely on mobile payment apps.
• Cash pickup: Recipients without bank accounts can collect cash at authorised payout locations. Cash pickups are quick and convenient but may be capped at ₹50,000 due to Reserve Bank of India rules.
• Airtime top‑up: Send small amounts as prepaid mobile credit to help loved ones stay connected.

For the funding methods, ACE accepts:

• Debit and credit cards: Fastest funding option, ideal for urgent transfers.
• Online bank transfers: Via Trustly for Europe, Ecospend for UK open banking, iDeal for the Netherlands and Bancontact in Belgium.
• Apple Pay and Google Pay: Convenient payment methods that leverage existing digital wallets.

Having multiple payout and funding options ensures flexibility for both senders and recipients.

Fast transfer times

ACE completes most card‑funded or UPI transfers within minutes, while bank deposits typically arrive within one to three business days depending on banks and compliance checks. Cash pickups are usually available the same day. This speed is crucial during emergencies.

User‑friendly platform and customer support

The ACE website and mobile app provide a simple interface for creating an account, entering transfer details, checking live exchange rates and tracking transactions. The app sends notifications and real‑time updates. ACE also offers 24/7 customer support and dedicated assistance, plus referral programmes that reward users for inviting friends.

Sending money to India from the UK

Follow these steps to use ACE Money Transfer when sending money from the UK:

1. Create an ACE account: Visit the ACE website or download the mobile app, then register and verify your identity. You’ll need to provide proof of ID (passport or driving licence), proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, etc.) and proof of funds for large transfers.
2. Enter transfer details: Select India as the destination, choose the payout method (bank deposit, UPI, cash pickup or airtime top‑up) and enter the recipient’s details.
3. Choose a payment method: Fund the transfer using a debit or credit card, online bank transfer via Ecospend, or digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
4. Review the exchange rate and fees: ACE shows the real‑time exchange rate, any applicable fees and the final amount the recipient will receive before you confirm. Review these details carefully to ensure you are satisfied.
5. Confirm and send: Authorise the transaction. You can then track it in real time using the ACE app or website.
6. Notify the recipient: Let your recipient know whether they should expect a bank credit, UPI notification or cash pickup. If it’s a cash pickup, remind them to bring a valid ID and the transaction reference number.

ACE’s streamlined process ensures that UK‑based users can complete transfers quickly with minimal effort.

Transferring money from the Netherlands to India

Sending money from the Netherlands is similar but uses euro as the send currency and may involve iDeal payments:

1. Register or log in: Sign up for a free ACE account through the website or app.
2. Select India as the destination: Choose India from the list of receiving countries.
3. Choose a payout method: Bank deposit, UPI, cash pickup or airtime top‑up.
4. Enter the recipient’s information and amount: The system displays the real‑time exchange rate and confirms that no fee applies for transfers from the Netherlands.
5. Pay securely: Fund the transaction using iDeal, your European bank account or a card. The platform also accepts Trustly and digital wallets.
6. Track delivery: Monitor your transfer through the ACE app or website. Most transfers from the Netherlands arrive within minutes.

Because transfers from the Netherlands are fee‑free, this route offers excellent value—especially for frequent remittances.

Advantages of using ACE Money Transfer

Feature
Details

Transparency
Real‑time exchange rates and fee breakdowns show the exact receive amount before you pay.

Competitive rates
ACE uses independent market rates without hidden mark‑ups. Rates can be locked in for extra certainty.

Low or zero fees
Transfers from the Netherlands to India are fee‑free. UK transfers have clear, minimal fees.

Fast delivery
Card‑funded and UPI transfers arrive in minutes; bank deposits generally settle within 1–3 business days.

Multiple payout options
Bank deposit, UPI, cash pickup and airtime top‑up offer flexibility for recipients.

Varied payment methods
Accepts debit/credit cards, open‑banking transfers (Ecospend), Trustly, iDeal, Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Security and regulation
FCA‑regulated, with end‑to‑end encryption and compliance with AML laws.

Wide reach
Supports 29 currencies and operates in over 100 countries.

User‑friendly
Web and mobile apps offer simple registration, transfer and tracking, plus 24/7 support and referral rewards.

Tips for saving money and avoiding delays

• Double‑check recipient details: Incorrect beneficiary information can delay the transfer. Verify the recipient’s name, bank account, UPI ID or mobile number.
• Compare final amounts: Focus on the amount your recipient will receive, not just the fee. Some services hide costs in the exchange rate.
• Consolidate transfers: Sending larger amounts less frequently can save on fees.
• Use fast funding methods: Card payments and UPI deliver funds quickly, which is important during emergencies.
• Keep documents ready: Maintain up‑to‑date ID, proof of address and proof of funds to avoid compliance delays.
• Plan around holidays: Bank holidays in the UK, the Netherlands or India can slow processing, so plan transfers accordingly.
• Stay vigilant against scams: Use official ACE platforms, enable two‑factor authentication and never share one‑time passwords.

Comparing ACE with other money transfer options

While ACE Money Transfer offers compelling benefits, it is helpful to compare it with other remittance options:

• Traditional banks: Banks charge higher fees and offer less favourable exchange rates, and transfers can take several days. They may be suitable for large, occasional transfers but are not ideal for routine remittances.
• Cash agents: These services allow cash pickups but require physical visits, have limited operating hours and often charge higher fees. They are useful for recipients without bank accounts but lack the convenience of digital platforms.
• Other digital providers: Competitors like Wise and Remitly offer digital transfers but may charge a fee per transaction or markup the exchange rate. ACE stands out by offering fee‑free transfers from the Netherlands and competitive rates without hidden markups.

Ultimately, ACE’s combination of low fees, strong exchange rates, multiple payout options and FCA regulation makes it one of the best ways to send money to India from the UK or the Netherlands.

When should you choose each payout method?

• Bank deposit: Ideal for regular household expenses, EMIs, tuition fees and savings. Use this method when your recipient prefers digital banking and access via ATM, online banking or UPI apps.
• UPI transfer: Perfect for urgent or small transfers where the recipient uses mobile payment apps daily. UPI requires only a UPI ID and delivers funds instantly, but you must ensure the ID is correct to avoid cancellations.
• Cash pickup: Useful for elderly recipients or those in areas without reliable bank access. However, remember that cash payouts are capped by RBI regulations, typically around ₹50 000.
• Airtime top‑up: Complementary to traditional transfers; helps keep loved ones connected by recharging mobile credit.

Conclusion: Why ACE money transfer is the best way to send money to India

Remittances are a lifeline for families in India, and with India receiving more than US$129 billion in remittances in 2024, choosing the right transfer service is crucial. ACE Money Transfer stands out because it combines competitive exchange rates, low or zero fees, multiple payout methods and regulatory security. Whether you need to send a quick UPI payment from London or a fee‑free transfer from Amsterdam, ACE’s digital platform makes remittances fast, transparent and safe.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently transfer money to India with ACE and ensure your loved ones receive the maximum benefit. For more information or to initiate a transfer, visit Send Money to India. When you’re ready to send, remember that the best way to send money to India from the UK is to use an FCA‑regulated provider like ACE, and if you live in the Netherlands, you can transfer money to India from the Netherlands with ACE Money Transfer without paying any fees.

The above information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by London Loves Business and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making (or refraining from making) any finance decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. London Loves Business bears no responsibility for any gains or losses.