How to send money from PayPal to Wise

PayPal® and Wise are convenient international money transfer providers. You can’t send a direct transfer from PayPal to Wise – but that doesn’t mean it’s not possible to move your funds between the two platforms.

We take a look at exactly how to send money from PayPal to Wise, including international fees, exchange rates, and transaction limits. Let’s dive in!

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Can you transfer money from PayPal to Wise?

It’s no longer possible to link PayPal to Wise – and you can’t make a direct transfer between your accounts.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t send money from PayPal to your Wise account. Instead of a direct transfer, you’ll need to use your bank account as an intermediary for the transaction.

How to send money from PayPal to Wise

If you want to send money from PayPal to Wise, you’ll first need to withdraw funds from PayPal to your bank account. You can then transfer money from your bank account to Wise.

Let’s take a look at how to transfer money from PayPal to Wise – your step-by-step guide.

Step 1. Log into your PayPal account and go to “Wallet”

Step 2. Click “Transfer money” and select “Transfer to your bank”

Step 3. Select “In 1-3 days” or “In minutes” – instant withdrawals are subject to a transfer fee

Step 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to withdraw money to your linked bank account¹

Step 5. Next, you’ll need to log into your Wise account

Step 6. Click “Add money” and enter your transfer amount. You’ll also need to choose which currency you want to use

Step 7. Select “Bank transfer” and click “Continue”. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your transaction

You can also add money to your Wise account using a regular bank transfer. Simply log into your online banking account, set up a transfer, and enter your Wise account details.

You’ll need to use the local details for the currency of your choice. For example, if you’re transferring US dollars, you’ll enter your USD account details.

You can access 10 local currency account details in your Wise account, including USD, CAD, EUR, and GBP.

Can I send money with PayPal to someone else’s Wise account?

You can’t send a direct transfer from your PayPal account to someone else’s Wise account.

However, you can withdraw money from PayPal to your bank account, and then send a bank transfer to your recipient’s Wise account. This is also a useful way to add money to your own Wise balance.

How much can I send from PayPal to Wise?

If you’ve verified your account, PayPal lets you send up to 60,000 USD in a single transaction.² PayPal also limits instant bank transfers to 25,000 USD per withdrawal.³

There aren’t typically any limits on how much you can receive in your Wise account, but this may depend on your account type and currency.

PayPal to Wise transfer fee

It’s free to withdraw money from PayPal to a bank account in the US. However, if you choose an instant withdrawal, you’ll pay 1.75% of the transaction.³

Standard withdrawals take 1 to 3 days, whereas you should receive your instant transfer within minutes.¹

You’ll also pay a 5% transaction fee for international bank transfers – and PayPal charges a 3% to 4% markup on the standard exchange rate if you need to convert currencies.³

Although PayPal has fairly steep international charges, Wise uses low, transparent fees to help you keep your PayPal to Wise transfer fee down.

It’s free to add US dollars to your Wise balance from a bank account - and you can send and receive foreign currencies without paying hefty conversion charges.

PayPal vs Wise for sending money abroad

You can use both PayPal and Wise for international money transfers, including convenient digital payments to friends and family across the world.

However, there are some key differences between the two providers. Let’s take a look at how to use Wise vs PayPal to send money abroad.

PayPal is a handy digital transfer solution – but you may end up spending more than expected for foreign transfers, especially if you need to convert currencies.

PayPal adds a markup – also known as a currency conversion spread – to make money from foreign currency transactions.

In comparison, Wise uses the standard mid-market exchange rate to facilitate low-fee transfers across the globe.

This is the only fair exchange rate out there, with no added markups, spreads, or hidden fees. At Wise, you’ll only pay for what you spend. No more, no less.

Access USD bank details or send money to over 160 countries, all thanks to Wise’s flexible multi-currency options. Everything you need in just one global account!

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PayPal to Wise FAQs

Sending money abroad? Let’s take a look at some common questions about transferring money from PayPal to Wise.

How much does it cost to get a Wise account?

It’s free to open a personal Wise account and there are no ongoing charges or minimum balances.

You won’t pay a charge to hold over 40 currencies in your account – and you can get account details in 23 currencies for free.

How much is it to get a PayPal account?

It’s free to open a PayPal US account, although exchange rate charges and international transaction fees may apply to foreign payments.

You’ll pay 1.75% for an instant withdrawal to your bank account, but it’s free to make a standard domestic bank withdrawal.

How do I send money to Wise?

There are a few different ways to send money to Wise. You can add money to your balance by connecting a bank account or card – or you can make a transfer from another provider.

If you want to receive money into your Wise account, you can give the sender your local account details or you can request a payment via the Wise app.

Can PayPal send money internationally?

Yes, you can send money in 25 currencies with PayPal. However, the provider charges a 5% international transaction fee.

You’ll also pay a 3% to 4% markup for currency conversion, so make sure to think before you spend.

To explore your low-cost international spending options, check out Wise!