Western Union Alternatives for International Money Transfer

Western Union has long been a popular choice for sending money abroad. But in 2025, many individuals and businesses are looking for faster, cheaper, and more convenient alternatives to Western Union. Whether you are sending money to family overseas, paying for international services, or managing a business transaction, you need an international money transfer service that’s secure, low-cost, and efficient.

In this article, we will explore the top Western Union alternatives, comparing fees, speed, ease of use, and unique features, so you can find the best way to send money internationally.

Why Look for Western Union Alternatives?

While Western Union remains widely used, there are some limitations that push people to explore Western Union competitors:

• Higher fees compared to newer platforms
• Slower delivery times, especially for bank transfers
• Limited mobile-first experience
• Exchange rate markups that affect how much the recipient receives

If these sound familiar, it’s time to explore Western Union replacements that better fit your needs in 2025.

1. Zole

Best for: Sending money from Canada to Nigeria quickly and securely.

Zole is a fintech platform built specifically for the diaspora community, helping users send money from Canada to Nigeria with better rates and faster delivery. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to Western Union, Zole is the best.

In a recent LinkedIn post, Babatunde Fashola, CEO of Zole, shared the personal story that inspired the platform. Zole isn’t just another fintech app—it was born from real-life experience, with the goal of making cross-border support easier, faster, and more rewarding for families like his.

Pros:

• Super-fast transfers (often within minutes)
• Better rates the more you send
• Intuitive mobile app experience
• Transparent fees

Cons:

• Currently focused on the Canada–Nigeria corridor

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Best for: Transparent fees & mid-market exchange rates.

Wise is one of the most popular Western Union alternatives globally. It’s known for its real exchange rate (no hidden markups) and transparent pricing.

Pros:

• Mid-market exchange rates
• Transparent fee breakdown
• Supports over 50 currencies

Cons:

• Bank transfer required in some corridors
• Not ideal for instant cash pickup

3. Remitly

Best for: Multiple payout options (bank, mobile money).

Remitly is a strong competitor to Western Union, especially if you are sending to regions where recipients prefer cash pickup or mobile wallets.

Pros:

• Express and Economy delivery options
• Easy-to-use app
• Cash pickup available in many countries

Cons:

• Higher fees on express transfers
• Exchange rate margin exists

4. WorldRemit

Best for: Variety of delivery options & wide reach.

WorldRemit is a solid choice if you want international money transfer services with multiple payout options, including airtime top-ups, bank deposits, and mobile money.

Pros:

• Available in 130+ countries and in 70+ currencies
• Supports mobile money and cash pickup
• Easy ID verification process

Cons:

• Transfer limits based on country
• Fees can vary widely

5. Xoom (by PayPal)

Best for: Sending money using PayPal balance or linked bank.

Xoom allows you to send money using your PayPal account, making it a great option for people already in the PayPal ecosystem.

Pros:

• Backed by PayPal
• Cash pickup and mobile reload options
• Fast delivery in many countries

Cons:

• Higher fees than some competitors
• Exchange rate margin applies

How to Choose the Best Money Transfer App for You

When looking for a Western Union replacement, here’s what to consider:

• Transfer speed: Does the platform offer instant or same-day transfers?
• Fees and exchange rates: Are the fees low, and is the exchange rate close to the mid-market rate?
• Ease of use: Is the app or website easy to navigate?
• Payout methods: Does it offer bank deposit, cash pickup, or mobile wallet delivery?
• Customer support: Is support accessible and responsive when you need help?

Conclusion

With so many Western Union alternatives available, you don’t have to settle for expensive methods to send money abroad—smarter, faster, and more affordable options are just a tap away.While platforms like Wise, Remitly, and WorldRemit offer solid alternatives to Western Union, Zole stands out, especially if you are sending money from Canada to Nigeria.

With instant transfers, better exchange rates the more you send, and a simple, secure app experience, Zole is built with the modern sender in mind. No hidden fees. No long waits. Just fast, transparent money transfers that actually work for you.