How to Send Money to Mexico: Fees, Speed, and Best Methods 

Mexico is one of the top countries for receiving remittances. Millions of people send money to loved ones in Mexico every year to help with living expenses, education, healthcare, and emergencies. 

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to send money to Mexico — including costs, transfer speeds, and tips for choosing the right option. 

Ways to Send Money to Mexico 

Bank Transfers 

Bank transfers are a classic method to send money internationally. While they are secure and reliable, they are often slower and more expensive than other options, with fees for both the sender and recipient. 

• How it works: Send funds directly from your bank account to your recipient’s bank account. 

• Pros: Reliable, secure, good for larger amounts. 

• Cons: Typically slower (1–3 business days), higher fees, and sometimes less favorable exchange rates. 

Money Transfer Companies 

Money transfer providers like Ria Money Transfer specialize in international remittances. These services offer multiple payout options, including cash pickups and bank deposits, at competitive speeds. However, fees vary based on the transfer amount and speed. 

• How they work: Use a provider like Ria Money Transfer to send money online, via an app, or in person. 

• Pros: Fast delivery (often within minutes), multiple payout options (cash pickup, bank deposit, home delivery). 

• Cons: Fees vary depending on payment method and speed. 
  

Digital Wallets  

Digital wallets are a fast and flexible way to send money to Mexico, especially for tech-savvy users. They let you transfer funds straight from your phone or computer, anytime.  

• Pros: Easy to use, often lower fees for bank-to-bank transfers, 24/7 availability. 

• Cons: May require both sender and receiver to have digital accounts, limits on how much you can send. 

Debit Card Transfers 

Visa Direct and Mastercard Send allow you to transfer funds directly to a recipient’s debit card. It’s fast and convenient, but fees might be higher than other online services. 

• How it works: Services that use Visa Direct or Mastercard Send allow you to transfer money directly to a recipient’s debit card. 

• Pros: Fast — money can arrive within minutes. 

• Cons: Not all banks in Mexico accept these transfers; verify beforehand. 

Cash Pickup Services 

Cash pickup services are ideal if your recipient doesn’t have a bank account. You can send funds online, and recipients can collect cash from locations across Mexico. 

• How it works: Send money online or in person; the recipient picks up cash at an agent location (e.g., Ria stores, supermarkets, pharmacies). 

• Pros: Ideal for recipients without bank accounts. 

• Cons: Requires travel to a pickup location; may involve local pickup fees. 
  

How Much Does It Cost to Send Money to Mexico? 

Transfer Fees: Some services charge flat fees; others charge based on the amount you’re sending. Paying by credit card often incurs higher fees than bank transfers or debit cards. 

Exchange Rate Margins: Providers often add a markup to the exchange rate, meaning your recipient may receive less pesos for your dollars. Learn what the best day for a currency transfer is. 

Hidden Costs: Watch for additional fees on receiving ends, ATM withdrawal fees (for cash pickups), or bank fees for processing international payments. 

Example Cost Comparison: 

How Long Does It Take to Send Money to Mexico? 

Fast Transfers: Some services offer cash pickup or debit card transfers that happen within minutes. 

Same-Day Transfers: Many online transfers are completed within the same day if sent early enough. 

1-3 Business Days: Bank account transfers, especially if involving currency conversion or compliance checks. 

Factors That Affect Speed: 

• Time of day (weekend or after banking hours = delays) 

• Payment method (credit cards may be faster but costlier) 

• Provider processing times 

• Recipient method (bank deposit vs. cash pickup) 

Step-by-Step: How to Send Money to Mexico with Ria 

1. Create a Ria Account 

• Visit the Ria Money Transfer website or download the Ria Money Transfer app. 

• Sign up using your email address and create a password. 

• Verify your identity if required (upload a photo ID, depending on the amount you’re sending). 

2. Start a New Transfer 

• Click on “Send Money”. 

• Enter Mexico as the destination country. 

3. Enter the Transfer Details 

• Choose how much money you want to send (in USD or MXN). 

• Select the payout method: 

• Cash Pickup at thousands of locations in Mexico (like Elektra, OXXO, and BanCoppel). 

• Bank Deposit directly to your recipient’s bank account. 

• Debit Card Deposit (if available). 

4. Provide Recipient Information 

• For Cash Pickup: Enter the recipient’s full name exactly as it appears on their ID. 

• For Bank Deposit: Enter the recipient’s bank name, account number (CLABE), and full name.
   

5. Choose Your Payment Method 

• Select how you want to pay for your transfer: 

• Bank Account (ACH) – usually the lowest fees. 

• Debit Card – faster, moderate fees. 

• Credit Card – fastest, but higher fees may apply. 

6. Review and Confirm 

• Double-check: 

• The amount you’re sending. 

• The fees and exchange rate. 

• The recipient’s information. 

• Confirm and submit your transfer. 

7. Track Your Transfer 

• After sending, you’ll receive a tracking number (PIN). 

• Share the PIN with your recipient if it’s a cash pickup. 

• You can track your transfer status anytime through the Ria app or website. 

8. Notify Your Recipient 

• Let your recipient know the money is on its way! 

• If it’s cash pickup, they’ll need: 

• Their government-issued ID. 

• The PIN you provided. 

• If it’s a bank deposit, funds will appear directly in their account once processed. 

FAQs About Sending Money to Mexico 

Is it safe to send money online? 
Yes, if you use a reputable, licensed provider. Look for companies regulated by financial authorities and offering encryption to protect your data.  


What is the cheapest way to send money to Mexico? 
Online money transfer services often have the lowest total costs when factoring fees and exchange rates. 


Can I send money to a debit card in Mexico? 
Yes, if the service supports Visa Direct or Mastercard Send transfers to Mexico. Always confirm the recipient’s card can accept transfers. 


How much money can I send to Mexico at once? 
Limits vary by provider. For example, these are Ria’s limits: 

• For cash-funded transfers: USD $495.00 per transfer  

• For all other payment methods: USD $14,999.99 every 30 days 

Ready to send money to Mexico? Use Ria Money Transfer for fast, affordable, and secure money transfers to Mexico.