Send money from the UK to India
By RemitInsights Editorial. Updated October 2026. We do not move money; we explain the options.
India is among the largest remittance-receiving countries in the world, and the UK is a major sending market, so competition for your transfer is strong.
Quick summary
- Judge by what arrives. Compare how much your recipient receives in INR, not the advertised fee.
- The exchange rate is often the biggest cost. A "no fee" transfer can still cost more than one with a small fee.
- Use a regulated provider. In the UK, money transfer firms must be authorised or registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Check the FCA Register first.
- Match the payout to your recipient. The best method depends on whether they use a bank, a wallet or cash.
Payout options in India
- Bank account deposit. The most common option. Domestic systems such as IMPS and UPI let money move between Indian bank accounts within seconds once your provider has delivered it, though the first leg depends on the provider.
- UPI ID. Some apps can pay a recipient's UPI ID. Check that your provider supports it and confirm the ID with your recipient.
- Cash pickup. Offered by some providers in selected areas. Check coverage, ID rules and fees.
Indian banks and the Reserve Bank of India set the rules on the receiving side. Recipients normally need a bank account in their own name, and some providers need the account holder's name to match exactly.
How to check any quote in three steps
- Get quotes from at least three regulated providers for the same amount at the same time.
- Enter each provider's fee and exchange rate in the calculator above. It compares them with the mid-market rate and shows the total cost as a percentage.
- Choose the one that delivers the most INR by the method you need. Learn why the mid-market rate matters.
What you need to send from the UK
- Photo ID such as a passport or driving licence. Providers may also ask for proof of address.
- Your recipient's full name exactly as on their ID, and their bank, wallet or pickup details.
- Possible extra checks for larger amounts, such as the source of your funds. Providers must follow anti-money-laundering rules.
Each provider sets its own sending limits. Money held by authorised payment firms is safeguarded, but unlike bank deposits it is not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. If something goes wrong, complain to the provider first, then you may be able to go to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Avoid these mistakes and scams
- Common here: Fake bank or tax-department calls asking you to send money to unlock a refund or avoid a fine.
- Rates that change at checkout. Check the final screen before you confirm.
- Wrong recipient details. Double-check names, account and wallet numbers. Errors can delay or lose funds.
- Pressure to send urgently to someone you have not verified, or to pay "fees" before receiving a prize or loan.
- Fake apps and websites. Use official app stores and never share one-time passcodes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to send money from the UK to India?
It changes daily. The cheapest option is the one that delivers the most INR for your amount, so compare the total using the calculator.
How long does a transfer take?
Bank deposits can arrive within minutes where your provider connects to Indian instant payment systems, otherwise within one or two working days.
Is there a limit on how much I can send?
Providers set their own limits, and larger amounts may need extra documents. Check each provider's terms and the receiving country's rules.
Is it safe to send money online?
Yes, if you use a regulated provider, an official app, and verify your recipient's details.
Other routes
Sources
- Reserve Bank of India, the receiving-country regulator
- FCA Register and Financial Conduct Authority, the UK regulator
General information only. We are not connected to any provider, and rules, rates and fees change, so contact the provider directly for its actual rates, fees and terms before you send. Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our Disclaimer.