How to Send Money from Germany to the Philippines: Fast, Cheap and Secure Options

If you’re looking to send funds from Germany to loved ones or partners in the Philippines, you’ll want more than just the obvious options, you need clarity, efficiency, and control.

In this guide, we dive into how to send money from Germany to the Philippines with smarter methods, fewer fees, and insights that go beyond surface-level comparisons.

Choosing the Right Method: Not All Transfers Are Equal

Different people have different needs, some need speed, others value low cost. The trick is identifying the right combination of features that suits your situation:

• Recurring Support: For monthly remittances, platforms like Wise or Remitly’s Economy plan offer lower fees and decent exchange rates.
• Emergency Help: When time is critical, Western Union and Remitly Express can deliver funds within minutes — perfect for urgent needs.
• High-Value Transfers: For larger amounts, OFX provides no-fee transfers and strong exchange rates, with added support for compliance and documentation.

See why Wise is a top choice for monthly transfers. Compare fees, speed, and safety in our full review.

Read our full article on Wise for transfers

Avoid the Hidden Charges That Drain Your Money

One of the biggest pitfalls when sending money abroad is falling for the “zero fee” trap. Often, these services charge more by tweaking the exchange rate.

Here’s how to avoid losing out:

• Always check the mid-market rate on platforms like Google, XE, or Wise.
• Prefer services that separate fees from exchange rates — transparency saves you money.
• Don’t use a credit card unless necessary. It often triggers cash advance fees and worse conversion rates.
• If you transfer money frequently, ask about loyalty programs or discounts for repeat customers.

Mistakes That Cost You (and How to Prevent Them)

• Using your regular bank by default: German banks like Sparkasse or Deutsche Bank often charge high international transfer fees with weak conversion rates. Compare first.
• Incorrect recipient info: A single mistake in an account number or name can delay or even block transfers. Double-check with the recipient.
• Sending after business hours or before holidays: Cut-off times can push your transfer to the next day. Always send early if time is a factor.
• Relying on one platform for everything: Sometimes a service that’s great for speed isn’t best for cost. Mix and match if needed.

For more flexibility, it might be worth having a Monese card on hand. It works well alongside other platforms, especially if you need a European IBAN without proof of address.

See if Monese fits your needs

Optimize Every Euro: Practical Money-Saving Strategies

Sending money doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are smarter ways to keep more in your pocket:

• Use transfer scheduling: Many platforms allow you to pre-schedule transfers on days with better exchange rates.
• Track trends: Currency value shifts during global economic events. Set alerts to notify you when the euro strengthens against the peso.
• Bundle transfers: Instead of sending weekly, send one monthly transfer to reduce cumulative fees.
• Bank vs. card payment: Using your bank account is almost always cheaper than paying via credit or debit card.

Essential Guide for First-Time Senders

If this is your first time transferring money internationally, the process might feel intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be, most modern platforms are user-friendly and guide you through each step. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Choose a licensed provider: Start by picking a reputable service such as Wise, Remitly, or OFX. Look for platforms that are regulated in both Germany and the Philippines.
2. Register and verify your identity: In Germany, this often requires submitting a scan of your passport or national ID and sometimes a proof of address (like a utility bill). Verification ensures security and complies with anti-money laundering laws.
3. Add your recipient: Enter the full legal name as it appears on their ID, their bank details or preferred pickup location, and their contact number. Triple-check all spelling and account numbers, a mistake can delay or cancel the transfer.
4. Select the delivery method: Decide how your recipient will receive the money — via a bank deposit, mobile wallet (like GCash), or cash pickup from a nearby location. Some platforms let you send directly to their door.
5. Choose the funding method: You can usually pay via bank transfer, debit card, or sometimes credit card. Note that card payments are faster but usually more expensive.
6. Confirm and monitor the transfer: Review all the details, fees, and estimated delivery time. After confirmation, you’ll receive a reference number and tracking link to follow the transfer’s progress.
7. Notify your recipient: Most services automatically alert the recipient, but it’s always good to send them a quick message with the expected delivery window.

Pro Tip: Start with a small test transfer if it’s your first time using a service. This helps you build confidence in the platform and ensures your recipient’s info is accurate.

Need to receive USD from clients or platforms? Payoneer can be a smart option, especially if you live abroad.

Read our full guide on Payoneer

Why Cash Still Matters in Germany

Despite being a digital economy, Germany remains very reliant on cash, especially in small towns, markets, and local businesses that still refuse card payments. Having cash on hand can be a necessity, not a convenience.

If you’re planning to withdraw money in Germany before sending it, here’s what you need to know:

• Avoid independent ATMs such as Euronet or Travelex, which are known to charge up to €5 per withdrawal and apply poor exchange rates.
• Best ATM networks include Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Sparkasse (if you’re a customer), and DKB. These often have lower or no fees, especially for account holders.
• Use bank branch ATMs rather than ones found in tourist areas, train stations, or airports, where fees are higher and exchange rates worse.
• Multi-currency cards like those from Wise and Revolut allow you to withdraw euros with low fees, often the first €200 or more per month is free depending on the plan.
• Pro Tip: Withdraw during bank hours if possible. Some ATMs limit withdrawals at night or charge higher service fees.

Finally, always choose to be charged in euros instead of your home currency when prompted, this avoids dynamic currency conversion (DCC), which often comes with inflated rates.

If you plan to send cash or convert it before transferring, compare rates from in-person exchange offices with online transfer apps.

Sometimes, even after ATM fees, using a digital transfer service gives better value overall.

Top Money Transfer Services Breakdown

Updated Top Picks for 2025

• Best for Everyday Use: Wise — low fees, good app, fast delivery.
• Best for Emergencies: Remitly Express or Western Union.
• Best for High-Value Transfers: OFX, with live dealer support and zero transfer fees.
• Most Convenient for PayPal Users: Xoom.

Your Money, Your Control: Be a Smarter Sender

Understanding how to send money from Germany to the Philippines isn’t just about avoiding high fees, it’s about using tools that empower you to send on your terms.

Whether you’re sending €100 or €10,000, choosing the right platform makes a real difference. Wise, OFX, and others each have strengths depending on your priorities.

You can try the Revolut Compare exchange rates a reliable way to compare global transfer costs before you hit send