Blog/International Money Transfer

Bank vs Apps: What’s the Best Way to Transfer Money from Belgium to India?

Panda AI

September 15, 2025

Every year, thousands of people send funds back home to support family, pay tuition fees, or manage business expenses. If you need to transfer money from Belgium to India, you’re likely considering two main options: traditional banks or modern money transfer apps. Both come with their own pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your needs—whether it’s cost, speed, or convenience. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences so you can make an informed decision.

Why People Transfer Money from Belgium to India

The remittance flows between Belgium and India have been increasing consistently. Students, professionals, and businesses utilize cross-border payments for:

Family support
University tuition
Investments or business ventures
Emergency expenses

Choosing the correct payment channel is of utmost importance. Let‘s compare banks and apps.

Using Banks to Transfer Money from Belgium to India

In terms of money transfers, traditional banks have been the primary tool for many years now. Here is what you might expect:

Pros of Banks

Security: Due to banking regulations, the banking system is generally the most trustworthy method for moving money.
Wide Reach: You can send money to nearly any bank account in India.
Familiarity: Many people feel comfortable transferring money to and from institutions with whom they have an existing relationship.

Cons of Banks

High Fees: Banks typically charge high fees for transfers and receiving funds.
Slow Processing Times: Although your money is likely safe, transfers can take anywhere from 3–5 days.
Worst Exchange Rate: Banks usually offer poor exchange rates compared to what you can receive when using apps.

However, if you are more concerned with the cost and time, banks are not the best method to transfer money from Belgium to India.

Using Apps to Transfer Money from Belgium to India

Digital applications such as Wise, Remitly, and GetPanda have changed the way we transfer money internationally.

Pros of Using Apps

Lower Fees: Most apps charge a small fraction of what a bank may charge you.
Speed: Many payments are processed within hours.
Transpacy Page: You read the exchange rate and how much money the recipient will get before you send your payment.
Convenience: Send money from the palm of your hand and skip the branch.

Cons of Using Apps

Dependence on the Internet: You must have a stable internet connection.
Transfer Limits: Some apps have a limit on the amount of money you can send or receive within a given time.
New Factor of Trust: The older generation may have trouble trusting the platform.

That said, for most users, apps are a modern, seamless way to send money from Belgium to India.

Cost Comparison: Banks vs Apps

When comparing both options, fees and exchange rates play a big role:

Banks: May charge €15–€30 per transfer plus hidden exchange markups.
Apps: Often charge less than €5 with better exchange rates.

Over time, the savings with apps can be significant—especially for frequent transfers.

Speed Comparison: Banks vs Apps

Banks: Typically 3–5 working days.
Apps: Within minutes to 48 hours, depending on the provider.

If your priority is urgent support, apps clearly have the advantage.

Which Is Better?

So, should you use a bank or an app to transfer money from Belgium to India?

Choose banks if you prioritize trust, large transfers, or need direct account-to-account transactions.
Choose apps if you want speed, lower fees, and transparency.

Most younger professionals and students are now leaning toward apps, while banks remain a solid option for those who value traditional security.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to use apps to transfer money from Belgium to India?

Yes. Trusted apps like Wise, Remitly, and GetPanda are licensed and regulated, offering secure transfers.

2. Which is cheaper: banks or apps?

Apps are usually cheaper because they have lower fees and better exchange rates than banks.

3. How long does it take to transfer money from Belgium to India?

Banks may take 3–5 business days, while apps often complete the process within 24 hours.

4. Can I send large amounts using apps?

Yes, but some apps have transaction limits. Banks are more flexible for very large transfers.

5. Which method gives better exchange rates?

Apps generally offer more competitive rates than traditional banks.

Conclusion

Your decision to use either banks or apps will depend on your wants and needs. If getting your money transferred fast, having clear fees, and getting exchanged at a better price is important for you, then apps are usually the best solution to transfer money from Belgium to India. However, if you prefer to work with a traditional financial institution and have a larger amount of money to send, banks are still a solid option.

Regardless of whether you choose to go with an app or a bank, it is always worth it to compare fees, exchange rates, and timing before deciding. Overall, you will want to be sure that your hard-earned money is transferred quickly and cost-effectively to your loved ones in India!