Top 5 Cheapest Ways to Send Money from Germany to India in 2025

Panda Money

07 May 2025 — 2 min read

Sending money back home shouldn't feel like you're being taxed twice. In 2025, NRIs and expats in Germany have more choices than ever when transferring funds to India — but with so many options, which one saves you the most?

This blog breaks down the top 5 cheapest and most efficient services to send money from Germany to India. Whether you're supporting family, investing, or just splitting bills with friends, this guide will help you get more bang for your Euro.

🌎 Quick Comparison Table: Fees & Exchange Rates

Provider	Avg. Fee (EUR)	Exchange Rate Markup	Transfer Speed	Real Amount Received (INR) per €1,000
Wise (TransferWise)	€5.23	~0.35% above mid-market	1-2 days	₹90,240
Remitly	€2.99 (economy) / €5.99 (express)	~1.0%	Express: Minutes / Economy: 3-5 days	₹89,600 (economy)
Western Union	€4.90+	~2.5%	1-3 days	₹88,200
Money2India (ICICI)	€0 (promo)	~1.2%	2-3 days	₹89,350
Panda Money	€1.00	Google FX (0% markup)	Same-day	₹90,800

Disclaimer: Rates and fees are indicative as of May 2025 and subject to change.

🌟 1. Panda Money – The Transparent & Charitable Choice

Why it's great: Panda Money offers Google FX rates (i.e., no hidden markup), low fees, and fast, secure transfers. Plus, 25% of profits go to charity.

Fee: €1.00 flat
Exchange Rate: Google FX (real mid-market rate)
Transfer Time: Same-day
Bonus: 25% of profits go to verified causes in India

Ideal for: Value-conscious, socially responsible NRIs who want fast transfers with full transparency.

📢 2. Wise (TransferWise) – Great Mid-Market Rates

Why it's great: Consistently one of the most affordable with clear fee breakdowns and near mid-market rates.

Fee: ~€5.23
Exchange Rate: Mid-market + 0.35%
Transfer Time: 1-2 days

Ideal for: Anyone who wants a no-surprises approach to fees and rates.

🚗 3. Remitly – Speed When You Need It

Why it's great: Two options: economy for affordability, express for speed. Good user interface.

Fee: €2.99 (economy) or €5.99 (express)
Exchange Rate: ~1% above mid-market
Transfer Time: Express: within minutes

Ideal for: Emergency transfers or quick payments with time-sensitive needs.

🏦 4. ICICI Money2India – Backed by a Trusted Bank

Why it's great: Occasional zero-fee promos and backed by one of India’s largest banks.

Fee: Often waived during promos
Exchange Rate: ~1.2% above mid-market
Transfer Time: 2-3 business days

Ideal for: Regular bank users and those comfortable with traditional institutions.

📦 5. Western Union – Old but Gold

Why it's great: Worldwide access with extensive cash pick-up locations.

Fee: Varies, starts around €4.90
Exchange Rate: Markup of ~2.5%
Transfer Time: 1-3 days

Ideal for: Users needing physical cash pick-up in remote areas.

💼 Final Thoughts

Panda Money clearly comes out on top when you're looking for the best mix of affordability, transparency, and social good. With same-day transfers and real Google FX rates, it offers the highest INR payout per Euro.

But don’t just go by price alone. Choose the service that fits your speed, convenience, and values.

Your money works hard. Make sure your remittance does too.

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