International transfers with CaixaBank in Spain: fees and commissions

Making an international money transfer from Spain doesn't have to be complicated. However, it is vital to pay attention to the details to ensure you aren't paying more than necessary. This guide covers everything you need to know about sending money abroad with CaixaBank in Spain: how the process works, how long it takes, and what it actually costs.

We will also look at the Wise multi-currency account as an alternative. Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate, which can save you a significant amount on every transfer.

Here is a quick comparison of the costs involved when sending €1,000 to a USD account in the United States:

*Exchange rate markups vary by currency and date. For example, at the time of writing (02/26/2026), CaixaBank's rate was 1 EUR = 0.82 USD, while the interbank rate was 1 EUR = 1.16 USD.

The data for this comparison was sourced from the CaixaBank and Wise websites. Please note that some CaixaBank customers may qualify for specific account discounts. CaixaBank applies its own marked-up exchange rate unless otherwise instructed; if not, the destination bank will set the rate.

Disclaimer: Wise is a payment institution, not a bank. In Spain, the Wise account is a multi-currency electronic money account.

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CaixaBank international transfer fees in Spain

International transfers from Spain generally fall into two categories: those within the SEPA zone, and those outside of it (or in a currency other than Euros), which are processed via the SWIFT network.

The SEPA zone includes all 27 EU countries, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, and Switzerland. Euro transfers to these countries are treated differently—and usually much more affordably—than other international transfers.

CaixaBank SEPA transfer fees in Spain

European legislation requires that SEPA transfers be subject to the same conditions as domestic transfers.

For many CaixaBank customers in Spain, these transfers may be free depending on their specific account terms. For others (including those making the transfer in person at a branch), the following fees apply¹:

CaixaBank SWIFT transfer fees (Outside SEPA or in foreign currency)

For transfers outside the SEPA zone, or those sent in a currency other than Euros, you must choose who covers the transfer costs:

• OUR: The sender pays all fees.
• BEN: The recipient pays all fees, which are deducted from the final amount received.
• SHA: Costs are shared. The sender pays their bank's fees, and the recipient covers any remaining intermediary or receiving charges.

In addition to these percentages, CaixaBank Spain charges a fixed €15 SWIFT fee. You also lose money on the exchange rate markup.

For example, if you send €1,000 via CaixaBank to a USD account, the recipient might end up with approximately 778 USD.

If you make the same transfer with Wise, the recipient would receive approximately 1,15 USD—nearly 400 USD more. This is because CaixaBank does not offer the mid-market exchange rate (the one you see on Google or XE.com). Every time you convert money with a traditional bank, you are likely paying more than you realize.

Wise: fast international transfers with the mid-market exchange rate

More than 15 million people worldwide use Wise, a service built around the real exchange rate and transparent, low fees. No hidden costs, no small print.

Wise also moves money faster than most banks. On average, 74% of transfers arrive in under 20 seconds, and 95% arrive within 24 hours. You can use Wise via their website or the mobile app (available for Android and iOS).

🚀 All About Wise Transfers

How to make an international transfer with CaixaBank in Spain?

There are several ways to send money abroad with CaixaBank. Keep in mind that visiting a branch in person is usually the most expensive method.

Via CaixaBankNow (Web or App)

To make a digital transfer, you will need access to CaixaBankNow, the bank’s online platform.

1. Log in to the CaixaBank app or web portal.
2. Navigate to “Transferencias” (Transfers) and select “Nueva transferencia internacional” (New international transfer).
   . Select the appropriate transfer type.
3. Fill in the required recipient and payment details.
4. Confirm the transaction with the security code sent to your mobile device.

At a CaixaBank branch

You can visit any CaixaBank branch in Spain. Standard hours are usually 8:15 AM to 2:0 PM. During winter (October to April), many branches also open on Thursday afternoons from 4:15 PM to 6:45 PM.

Note: Branches typically charge the highest fees for manual processing.

Via a CaixaBank ATM

CaixaBank ATMs in Spain allow you to make domestic and international transfers in Euros to SEPA zone countries, including all 27 EU member states, the UK, Switzerland, and the EEA countries.

What information do you need to send an international transfer from Spain?

Sending money abroad from Spain requires a few extra details compared to a domestic transfer:

• Recipient's full name and address.
• Account number (usually in IBAN format).
• The destination bank's SWIFT/BIC code.
• The amount, currency, and your chosen fee structure (OUR, SHA, or BEN).

If you are receiving a transfer, you will need to provide these same details to the sender. They may also request your Spanish DNI (ID number). If you are unsure of your bank's code, you can use a SWIFT/BIC code finder.

How long does an international transfer with CaixaBank in Spain take?

Delivery times depend on the destination and the network used:

• SEPA transfers: 1 to 2 business days.
• Instant SEPA transfers: Approximately 20 seconds.
• SWIFT transfers: 2 to 7 business days, depending on the number of intermediary banks involved.

Sources:

Last checked on April 2, 2026