Wise is an online platform that lets you send money abroad quickly and at a lower cost.
Unlike traditional banks, it uses the real exchange rate and charges transparent fees.
You can easily manage transfers in the Wise app, saving both time and money.
What Is the Wise App and How It Works
The Wise app makes international money transfers affordable and straightforward.
It works by using real exchange rates and low, upfront fees instead of inflated bank rates. Here’s how the Wise app functions and what makes it stand out:
- Multi-Currency Account: You can hold, send, and receive money in more than 40 currencies within one account.
- Real Exchange Rate: Wise uses the mid-market rate with no hidden markups, so you get more value per transfer.
- Transparent Fees: You’ll always see the exact amount you pay before confirming any transaction.
- Fast Transfers: Most transfers arrive within hours or a single business day, depending on the route.
- Easy Mobile and Web Access: Manage your account anytime through the app or desktop website.
- Local Bank Details: Get local account numbers in currencies like USD, EUR, or GBP for easier international payments.

Why Wise Is Cheaper Than Banks
Wise is cheaper than banks because it removes unnecessary middlemen and hidden markups.
It gives you direct access to real exchange rates and shows the full cost upfront. Here are the main reasons Wise costs less:
- Mid-Market Exchange Rate: Wise uses the actual rate you see on Google, without any added margin.
- Transparent Fee Breakdown: You know exactly how much you’re paying before confirming the transfer.
- No Hidden Charges: Banks often hide extra costs in their exchange rates — Wise doesn’t.
- Lower Operating Costs: Wise runs digitally without maintaining physical branches, reducing expenses passed to customers.
- Efficient Transfer Network: It uses local bank accounts across multiple countries to avoid international wire fees.
- Automatic Currency Conversion: The app finds the cheapest conversion route to save you money on each transaction
How to Send Money Using the Wise App
Sending money with Wise is quick and easy. You can complete the whole process in just a few steps through the app or website. Here’s how to do it:
- Create Your Account: Sign up on the Wise app using your email or mobile number, then verify your identity to start transferring money securely.
- Add Recipient Details: Enter the receiver’s name, bank account number, and country.
- Choose Currency and Amount: Select how much you want to send and in which currency.
- Review the Exchange Rate and Fees: Wise shows the real-time rate and total cost before confirming.
- Select Payment Method: Pay with your debit or credit card, or via bank transfer.
- Confirm and Send: Double-check details, confirm the transfer, and track progress in the app.
Security and Reliability
Wise takes security and reliability seriously to protect your money and data.
It’s a regulated financial institution that uses advanced technology to ensure safe transactions.
Here are the main features that make Wise secure and trustworthy:
- Licensed and Regulated: Wise operates under financial authorities like the FCA in the UK and FinCEN in the US.
- Data Encryption: All personal and payment data are encrypted using industry-grade technology.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of protection to your account login.
- Fraud Detection Systems: Continuous monitoring helps identify and block suspicious activity.
- Secure Payment Methods: Only verified bank accounts and cards can be used for transfers.
- Strong Customer Protection Policies: Refund and dispute processes are available in the event of issues.
Pros and Cons of Using Wise
Like any service, Wise has its strengths and limitations. Knowing both will help you decide if it fits your money transfer needs.
Here are the main pros and cons of using Wise:
Pros:
- Low and Transparent Fees: You always see the exact cost before confirming a transfer.
- Real Exchange Rate: Uses the mid-market rate without hidden markups.
- Fast Transfers: Many international payments arrive within hours.
- User-Friendly App: Simple design makes sending money easy for anyone.
- Multi-Currency Account: Hold and manage over 40 currencies in one place.
- High Trust Ratings: Excellent reviews and millions of satisfied users worldwide.
Cons:
- No Cash Pick-Up Option: Transfers go directly to bank accounts only.
- Limited Customer Support Hours: Availability may vary by region.
- Transfer Limits: Some countries and currencies have maximum send amounts.
- Card Availability: The Wise debit card isn’t offered in all countries yet.
Wise for Businesses and Freelancers
Wise isn’t just for personal transfers — it’s also an innovative tool for businesses and freelancers.
It helps you manage payments in different currencies without losing money to bank fees.
Here are the main ways Wise supports professionals and companies:
- Multi-Currency Business Account: Receive and hold payments in multiple currencies under one account.
- Professional Invoicing: Create and send invoices that let clients pay you directly in their local currency.
- Real Exchange Rates: Get paid using the actual mid-market rate, avoiding conversion losses.
- Integration With Accounting Tools: Sync your Wise account with platforms like Xero or QuickBooks for easier bookkeeping.
- Batch Payments: Send multiple transfers at once to save time on payroll or vendor payments.
- Business Debit Card: Spend globally from your balance with no foreign transaction fees.

Wise Debit Card and Everyday Spending
The Wise debit card makes it easy to spend money abroad without hidden fees.
It’s linked to your Wise account so that you can use your balance across multiple currencies.
Here are the key things you should know about the Wise debit card and daily spending:
- Multi-Currency Spending: Use your card in over 150 countries and spend directly from your balance in different currencies.
- Real Exchange Rates: Get the mid-market rate every time you pay or withdraw cash abroad.
- Low or No Fees: Enjoy free spending in your held currencies and minimal conversion fees.
- ATM Withdrawals: Get free withdrawals up to a set monthly limit, with a small fee after you reach it.
- Instant Notifications: Receive real-time alerts for every transaction through the Wise app.
- Global Acceptance: Works anywhere Mastercard or Visa is accepted, both online and in stores.
Wise vs. Other Money Transfer Apps
Choosing between Wise and other money transfer apps depends on what matters most to you — cost, speed, or convenience.
Wise focuses on transparency and real exchange rates, while others may prioritize more exhaustive coverage or faster delivery.
Here’s how Wise compares with popular competitors:
- Transparent Fees and Real Exchange Rate: Wise uses the mid-market rate with no hidden markups, unlike some competitors that add a margin.
- Coverage and Reach: Wise supports over 70 countries, while apps like Western Union or Remitly may cover more destinations but often charge higher fees.
- Delivery Options: Wise sends money directly to bank accounts, whereas others may offer cash pickup or mobile wallet transfers.
- Transfer Speed: Wise transfers are typically fast, but some apps provide instant delivery for an extra charge.
- Additional Features: Wise offers multi-currency accounts, debit cards, and business tools; most transfer-only apps don’t.
- Best Use Case: Wise is ideal for cost-effective bank-to-bank transfers, while other apps may suit users needing cash pickup or instant service.
To Conclude
The Wise app gives you a faster, cheaper, and more transparent way to send money abroad than traditional banks.
With real exchange rates, low fees, and strong security, it’s a reliable option for both personal and business transfers.
Download the Wise app today to manage your international payments with confidence and save more on every transaction.











