Can Canadians make wire transfers from a CIBC USD account? A closer look
Read on to understand USD wire transfers with CIBC, and discover Wise as an alternative with low fees and a mid market exchange rate
Sending money from Canada to Germany requires thinking about costs and delivery options. Remitly offers a digital way to send funds internationally, with bank deposits and local delivery options available across Germany. Exchange rates and fees vary, with the most competitive pricing often tied to first-time transfers.
This guide explains how Remitly works for transfers to Germany, including costs and tracking. It also covers an alternative, Wise, which uses the mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees.
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Remitly allows Canadians to send money to Germany using digital transfer options and local delivery partners. Transfers can be set up online or through the app. Recipients can receive funds into a German bank account, collect cash, or receive money to a linked debit card.
When sending money from Canada to Germany, Remitly offers¹:
New customers usually receive an introductory offer, such as a promotional exchange rate or reduced fees. These offers are typically capped at a maximum send amount. Returning customers use standard rates and fees.
Remitly shows the exchange rate and fees upfront before you confirm. However, pricing can vary between transfers, so review the details each time you send money.
New customers may qualify for promotional offers on their first transfer. This can include a discounted exchange rate, zero fees, or both². These offers apply automatically up to a set limit. Amounts above that limit use the standard rate.
Returning customers access the same delivery methods with standard pricing. Rates typically include a margin compared to the mid-market rate. Pricing varies by delivery method and payment option.
Remitly refreshes exchange rates regularly. Rates vary based on the amount, destination, and delivery method. The rate typically includes a markup compared to the mid-market rate. You'll see the rate applied before confirming.
Transfer fees depend on delivery method:
Remitly doesn't charge recipients. All costs appear in the transfer summary. Credit card payments may incur additional charges from your card issuer.
Example: Sending 1,000 CAD to Germany
Remitly shows total cost, exchange rate, and fees before you send.
Remitly works entirely online. You can send money using the app or website without visiting a branch. Your recipient doesn't need a Remitly account.
Steps to send money:
You can track progress and make updates until the money is delivered.
Remitly lets you check transfer progress at every stage.
Status updates progress from "In review" or "On hold" to "In progress," then "Ready for pickup" or "Delivered."
Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate for every transfer, not just promotional rates for new users. Fees are shown upfront, with low conversion fees starting from 0.48%³. Transfers go directly to a recipient's European bank account using an IBAN.
For Canadians sending money to Germany regularly or moving larger amounts, this makes costs predictable and easy to compare.
| Feature | Remitly | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| IBAN offered? | No. Funds delivered via local partners or cash pickup | Yes. Wise uses IBANs for EUR transfers |
| Exchange rates | Promotional rates for new users; standard rates include markup | Mid-market rate with no markup |
| Transfer duration | Varies by delivery method | Typically same day or next business day |
| Transfer limits | Up to 140,000 CAD per transfer⁴ | Up to 1.5 million CAD by bill payment or wire⁵ |
Remitly suits occasional transfers, cash pickups, or when first-time offers reduce costs. For regular CAD–EUR transfers or larger amounts, Wise offers consistent mid-market rates and transparent fees.
Before your first transfer, create and prepare your Remitly account. This setup is required only once.
Once set up, send money to Germany through the app or website whenever needed.
Remitly offers a range of delivery methods and established German banking partners for transfers from Canada. Pricing varies based on delivery method and first-time offers, so review rates and fees before each transfer.
For predictable pricing and the mid-market exchange rate, Wise offers an alternative for CAD to EUR transfers. Comparing options helps you choose the best approach for your needs.
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*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
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