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HSBC wire transfers review

The ins and outs of transferring funds around the globe with this provider.

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With HSBC’s Global Transfers, you can transfer funds between your eligible HSBC deposit accounts with no transfer fee. Or you can use HSBC’s Wire Transfers option to make an international wire transfer to someone else’s bank account — but for a fee. Whichever option you choose, you’ll first need to have a bank account with HSBC.

How do I make an HSBC international transfer?

To initiate a wire transfer, you must first be an HSBC Personal Internet Banking customer. Then:

  1. Log in to your HSBC Personal Internet Banking account.
  2. Select the My HSBC tab and click Pay or transfer under the Move Money section.
  3. Select the account you wish to make a payment from, then click the New Payee tab.
  4. Click the Wire transfer tab and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the wire transfer request.

HSBC wire transfer fees

HSBC transfer fees depend on how you’re sending the transfer and whether you’re sending or receiving an international wire transfer. Some accounts allow for free international wire transfers between HSBC accounts, but others use HSBC’s default fee schedule:

OutgoingIncomingBetween qualifying HSBC accounts
Domestic wire transfer$35$15Free
International wire transfer$35$15Free

Note: Wire transfer fees from May 2020.

A notable advantage of using the HSBC Global Transfers service is that no fees apply to your international transactions — but this only applies to transfers between your own HSBC accounts.

However, a service fee is charged by the bank for every international wire transfer you send. You’ll be able to review any charges that apply to each transfer before you make your transaction.

HSBC exchange rates

You’ll need to consider the exchange rate that applies whenever you send money overseas, and HSBC updates its rates frequently to keep pace with market fluctuations. You’ll be able to review the live exchange rate that applies to each transaction before you make a transfer — but using the global transfers service to send money between your accounts entitles you to preferential exchange rates from the bank.

Must read: Who charges less

Independent transfer services usually win out over banks when it comes to fees. There are several providers who will send a transfer for free with competitive exchange rates, including OFX, Xe and Wise.

Transfer limits and available countries

As HSBC is an international bank, you can use the Global Transfers service to send funds to eligible HSBC deposit accounts in more than 45 countries around the world. The maximum amount you can send per day using this service is $200,000.

With wire transfers, you can send your funds to financial institutions in most countries around the world. However, there are some countries where US banks will not send your funds, such as:

  • Iran
  • Iraq
  • Cuba
  • North Korea

See how other services compare to HSBC

Our table lets you compare the services you can use to send money abroad. Compare services on transfer speeds and fees, then click Go to site when you're ready to send.
1 - 12 of 12
Name Product USFMT Filter Values Fastest Transfer Speed Fees (Pay by Bank Transfer)
Instarem  logo
24 hours
From 0%
New Instarem customers will get a special FX rate and zero-fees on their first transfer.
Instarem offers offers rewards on every transaction.
Wise logo
Within minutes
From 0.41%
Wise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 50+ currencies.
MoneyGram  logo
Within minutes
From $0
MoneyGram has fast cash pick-up transfers to more than 350,000 agent locations worldwide.
Airwallex
Airwallex logo
Within minutes
$0
After spending $15k in your first 90 days, receive a one-time $500 bonus that will automatically be credited to your account on any FX conversion.
Airwallex can help you make business payments to 150+ countries in 60+ currencies.
OFX logo
24 hours
$0
Business customers: Send safe, no-limit transfers with no fees and competitive exchange rates.
CurrencyTransfer  logo
24 hours
$0
Increase business efficiency with zero transaction fees and same-day transfers.
Xe logo
24 hours
$0
Save your time and money with Xe Money Transfer for business.
OFX logo
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 45+ currencies.
Currencies Direct  logo
24 hours
$0
Minimizes costs of international transactions and offers custom solutions for business clients. Currencies Direct may call you to confirm your transfer, so be prepared for a phone call shortly after initiating a transfer.
Xe logo
Within minutes
$3
Xe has fast transfers with low fees and a range of foreign currency tools.
CurrencyTransfer  logo
24 hours
$0
CurrencyTransfer lets you shop around for the best exchange rate on its online marketplace.
Currencies Direct  logo
24 hours
$0
CurrenciesDirect makes transferring money abroad simple with bank-beating exchange rates. Currencies Direct may call you to confirm your transfer, so be prepared for a phone call shortly after initiating a transfer.
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What types of transfers can I make with HSBC?

  • Wire Transfers. Send money from your HSBC deposit accounts to other people, businesses and financial institutions around the world. Initiate a transfer through your online account, completing an online transfer request form with your recipient’s name, address and bank account number. You’ll also need to supply your recipient bank’s routing number or SWIFT code.
  • Global Transfers. HSBC Premier and Advance account holders can use HSBC’s Global Transfers, which allows you to send up to $200,000 per transaction per day between your eligible HSBC deposit account (except CDs and online payment accounts) and your HSBC accounts throughout the world. No fees are attached to these transfers, and you can initiate them by logging on to your personal Internet banking account.

Whichever option you choose, HSBC transfers the funds to your recipient’s account as soon as possible. Wire transfer requests received by 4:15 pm ET are processed on the same day, while transfers requested after 4:15 pm ET are processed the next business day.

Pros and cons of using HSBC

Pros

  • Trusted global bank. HSBC is one of the biggest banks in the world.
  • Secure and convenient. Whether you’re sending HSBC global transfers or an international wire transfer, HSBC offers safe and easy international money transfer solutions.
  • Same-day transfers. International wire transfers initiated before 4:15 p.m. ET are processed by HSBC Bank USA on the same day.

Cons

  • Wire transfer fees. You’ll need to pay a service fee for each international wire transfer you send to a non-HSBC account or an HSBC account that does not belong to you. Check the prepayment and receipt disclosures associated with your account to confirm the fee you’ll pay for each transaction.
  • Security device. You may be required to obtain an HSBC security device that requires two-factor authentication to make a transfer. You have the option of using a digital device via the HSBC mobile banking app or a portable physical device.

HSBC SWIFT/BIC information

Bank nameSWIFT/BICBank addressRecipient’s nameRecipient’s account number
HSBC BankMRMDUS33452 FIFTH AVENUE, NEW YORK, NY 10018Beneficiary’s name as it appears on the bank statementComplete bank account number

More about HSBC?

Established in London by the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation in 1991, HSBC Holdings is a multinational financial services provider with roots dating back to the 1860s. The third-largest bank in the world in terms of assets, HSBC has operations across 80 countries and territories around the world.

HSBC Bank USA services more than 2.4 million customers across the US, from retail and commercial banking to wealth management, asset management and more. HSBC Bank USA has more than 230 branches throughout the US.

What other products does HSBC offer?

  • Checking and saving accounts. Manage your ongoing financial needs, from basic accounts with essential features right through to high-end accounts that help you get more out of your money.
  • Credit and debit cards. Whether you’re looking for a platinum-level rewards card or a basic card for emergency purchases, you’ll find a card with HSBC.
  • International banking solutions. From international mortgages to helping those who are relocating overseas, HSBC Bank USA offers a wide range of international banking services.
  • Mortgages and home equity loans. Own your next home sooner or take advantage of the equity in your current property with a range of flexible mortgage solutions.
  • Investment products. Invest in mutual funds, fixed-income products, ETFs, equities and more with help from HSBC.
  • Insurance. HSBC Bank USA offers life insurance, long-term-care coverage and disability insurance.

Bottom line

Whatever the reason you need to transfer funds across international borders, HSBC offers two money transfer options that may be worth considering. But before you decide on the right solution for your funds transfer needs, compare the features and benefits of a range of providers.

Frequently asked questions

Whether products shown are available to you is subject to individual provider sole approval and discretion in accordance with the eligibility criteria and T&Cs on the provider website.

Name Product USFMT Filter Values Fastest Transfer Speed Fees (Pay by Bank Transfer)
OFX logo
24 hours
$0
Business customers: Send safe, no-limit transfers with no fees and competitive exchange rates.
Xe logo
Within minutes
From $0
Xe has fast transfers with low fees and a range of foreign currency tools.
MoneyGram  logo
Within minutes
From $0
MoneyGram has fast cash pick-up transfers to more than 350,000 agent locations worldwide.
Instarem  logo
24 hours
From 0%
New Instarem customers will get a special FX rate and zero-fees on their first transfer.
Instarem offers offers rewards on every transaction.
Xe logo
24 hours
$0
Save your time and money with Xe Money Transfer for business.
Remitly  logo
Within minutes
From $0
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
CurrencyTransfer  logo
24 hours
$0
CurrencyTransfer lets you shop around for the best exchange rate on its online marketplace.
WorldRemit  logo
Within minutes
From $0.99
Use promo code 3FREE and pay no fees on your first 3 transfers. Conditions apply.
WorldRemit sends money to 110+ countries for bank-to-bank deposits, cash pick-ups or mobile top-ups.
OFX logo
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 45+ currencies.
PayPal logo
Within minutes
$0
Provides business solutions for small business owners in over 24 currencies worldwide. Try 3 months free of Spotify Premium when you sign up with PayPal.
Wise logo
Within minutes
From $8.16
Enjoy high maximum transfers into more than 40 currencies, while saving up to 90% over local banks.
Wise logo
Within minutes
From 0.41%
Wise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 50+ currencies.
Wise logo
Within minutes
From 0.41%
Wise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 50+ currencies.
CurrencyTransfer  logo
24 hours
$0
Increase business efficiency with zero transaction fees and same-day transfers.
WorldRemit  logo
Within minutes
From $0.99
Use promo code 3FREE and pay no fees on your first 3 transfers. Conditions apply.
WorldRemit sends money to 110+ countries for bank-to-bank deposits, cash pick-ups or mobile top-ups.
CurrencyFair logo
24 hours
€3
CurrencyFair has bank-beating exchange rates and fast transfer times on 15+ popular currencies.
OFX logo
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 45+ currencies.
CurrencyFair logo
24 hours
€3
CurrencyFair has bank-beating exchange rates and fast transfer times on 15+ popular currencies.
Remitly  logo
Within minutes
From $0
Special offers like free transfers and better exchange rates available for new customers.
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
Remitly  logo
Within minutes
From $0
Special offers like free transfers and better exchange rates available for new customers.
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
Remitly  logo
Within minutes
From $0
Special offers like free transfers and better exchange rates available for new customers.
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
PayPal logo
Within minutes
From $0
Use PayPal to safely send money and receive payments from around the world in over 25 currencies with just an email address or mobile number. Try 3 months free of Spotify Premium when you sign up with PayPal.
Xe logo
Within minutes
$3
Xe has fast transfers with low fees and a range of foreign currency tools.
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Editor-in-chief

Kelly Suzan Waggoner is a Personal Finance Editor at AOL and the former US editor-in-chief at Finder, where she worked with a talented team of expert writers and editors focused on helping readers to save money, earn money and grow their wealth. She joined Finder in 2016 as an editor, germinating the site from money transfers to include the wide scope of personal finance. Kelly has worked with publishers, magazines and nonprofits throughout New York City to develop best practices around editorial, SEO, plain language and accessibility, including Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers, HauteLife Press and Queerty. She is quoted on such sites as Lifehacker and CertifiKid, and ghostwrote Copyediting and Proofreading for Dummies, published by Wiley. Kelly earned a BA in English from Russell Sage College and a Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing from Poynter News University. She is trained in digital and website accessibility and plain language, and is a member of ACES: The Society for Editing and the Center for Plain Language. Between projects, she toys with words, flips through style guides and fantasizes about the serial comma’s world domination. See full bio

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24 Responses

    Default Gravatar
    RamonNovember 15, 2018

    Hi
    Is it possible to deposit cash into my UK account at a branch in South Korea? If so can it be any currency eg RMB ?

      Default Gravatar
      nikkiangcoNovember 23, 2018

      Hi Ramon,

      Thanks for your inquiry and for visiting our page. You may certainly deposit cash into your UK account in South Korea. You may ask about the currency at the bank you’re depositing to. Hope this helps!

      Best,
      Nikki

    Default Gravatar
    ChristopherJune 27, 2018

    Hi! I am waiting to receive a wire transfer from US. It’s been more than a week and I still haven’t received it. I am from the philippines. Is there any way I can follow up on the status from my end?

      Default Gravatar
      joelmarceloJune 27, 2018

      Hi Christopher,

      Thanks for leaving a question on finder.

      Wire transfer requests received by 4:15 pm EST are processed on the same day, while transfers requested after 4:15 pm EST are processed the next business day. You can contact your local bank or the sender to clarify on what could be causing the delay. I hope you already have your funds with you at this time.

      Cheers,
      Joel

    Default Gravatar
    FrankMay 21, 2018

    a friend is making an international transfer from Bank of Taiwan to my Hsbc bank in UAE, how many days will it take before i get it?

      Default Gravatar
      joelmarceloMay 22, 2018

      Hi Frank,

      Thanks for leaving a question on finder.

      Usually, it takes 5 – 7 business days. The bank would say 10 – 14 business days to be safe. A lot of times it depends what country the transfer comes from, what time of day it was sent and weekends really make the banking system take forever as nothing happens on weekends. To be sure, I suggest you speak with Bank of Taiwan to have a direct answer.

      Cheers,
      Joel

    Default Gravatar
    ArvellaApril 25, 2018

    How long does it takes to wire transfer from HSBC to Bank of the Philippine Island bank account? The sender was in UK and I am here in the Philippines. How long? It was April 23 when he transferred me the money but until i did not received anything,,

      AvatarFinder
      RichApril 25, 2018Finder

      Hello Arvela.

      I’d be happy to help you with your question.

      Money transfers from HCBC to another bank overseas could take from 2 to 5 banking days.

      However, there are several factors that affect the time frame for funds to clear such as the type of payment you are making, the currencies involved in the transfer, and the time of day the transfer request is made. It’s best to check with either bank directly for more accurate information on their transfer delivery timeframe.

      Using money transfer services is usually a better alternative if you want to send money to the Philippines from the UK as they typically offer the strongest exchange rates and lowest fees on money transfers to the Philippines compared to banks.

      Hope this helps.

      Regards,

      Rich

    Default Gravatar
    PaulApril 20, 2018

    How long does an hsbc wire transfer to Nigeria takes?

      AvatarFinder
      JoanneApril 20, 2018Finder

      Hi Paul,

      Thanks for reaching out.

      International wire transfers initiated before 4:15 p.m. ET are processed by HSBC Bank USA on the same day. Wire Transfer requests to domestic banks and international banks can be completed online at any time, however, those completed after 4:15 PM ET on business days will be automatically re-dated to the next business day. You may need to allow 24-72 business hours for an international wire to be completed.

      Cheers,
      Joanne

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