How Long Does Remitly Take?
Remitly offers two transfer speeds: Express (minutes to hours) and Economy (1-3 days). Choose based on your urgency and budget preferences.
Quick Answer
⚡ Express Transfers
Speed: Minutes to hours
Cost: Higher fee
Best for: Urgent transfers
💰 Economy Transfers
Speed: 1-3 business days
Cost: Lower cost
Best for: Cost-conscious senders
Remitly Transfer Speed Options
Express Transfers
Express is Remitly's fastest option for urgent money transfers.
- Typical Speed: Minutes to hours (usually within 30 minutes)
- Payment Methods: Debit card, credit card, bank account
- Delivery: Mobile wallet, bank deposit, cash pickup
- Cost: Higher transfer fee but faster delivery
Perfect when your recipient needs money immediately for emergencies or urgent expenses.
Economy Transfers
Economy saves money when speed isn't critical.
- Typical Speed: 1-3 business days
- Payment Methods: Bank transfer (ACH)
- Delivery: Bank deposit, cash pickup
- Cost: Lower fees, better for regular transfers
Ideal for planned transfers where saving money is more important than speed.
Factors Affecting Transfer Time
Payment Method
- Debit Card: Fastest (Express only)
- Credit Card: Fast (Express only)
- Bank Transfer: 1-3 days (Economy)
Delivery Method
- Mobile Wallet: Usually fastest
- Bank Deposit: Depends on bank
- Cash Pickup: Available immediately
Popular Destinations & Speeds
| Country | Express | Economy | Popular Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇰🇪 Kenya | Minutes (M-Pesa) | 1-2 days | M-Pesa mobile |
| 🇳🇬 Nigeria | 1-2 hours | 2-3 days | Bank deposit |
| 🇮🇳 India | Minutes-hours | 1-3 days | Bank transfer |
| 🇲🇽 Mexico | Minutes | 1-2 days | Cash pickup |
| 🇵🇭 Philippines | Minutes-hours | 1-3 days | Bank/GCash |
Common Delays
Transfers may be delayed if:
- • Additional identity verification is required
- • Bank processing systems are offline (weekends/holidays)
- • Recipient information needs correction
- • Transfer amount triggers compliance review
- • Payment method has insufficient funds or is declined
How to Get Faster Transfers
✅ Choose Express
Pay higher fees for minutes-to-hours delivery vs 1-3 days economy.
💳 Use Debit Card
Debit/credit cards are faster than bank transfers for funding.
📱 Mobile Delivery
Mobile wallets like M-Pesa often deliver instantly.
✏️ Accurate Details
Double-check recipient information to avoid delays.
Compare Transfer Speeds
Transfer speed is just one factor. Also compare exchange rates and fees to find the best overall value.
Bottom Line
Remitly Express: Minutes to hours, higher fees, best for urgent transfers.
Remitly Economy: 1-3 business days, lower costs, good for regular transfers.
Always check the estimated delivery time before confirming your transfer. Actual speed depends on payment method, destination, and recipient bank processing times.