Varo Bank international wire transfer: Fees, limits, and rates

Alexis Konovodoff

Varo Bank is the first all-digital national bank in the US. It offers basic banking services like checking accounts, savings accounts, and debit cards. You can easily send money using the Varo mobile app.

Varo is a US-based bank and doesn't have a SWIFT code, which is often required to send money abroad. So, they partner with third-party providers, such as WorldRemit, to send international transfers.¹

Here's everything you need to know.

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Table of contents

Can I make an international wire transfer with Varo Bank?

You can't send international wire transfers directly through Varo Bank, but there’s a workaround.

Varo is a US-based digital bank that doesn't have a SWIFT code, which makes sending money abroad through your Varo account impossible.

However, Varo partners with third-party providers such as WorldRemit to facilitate international transfers. WorldRemit’s network reaches more than 150 countries.¹

If you need to make an international wire transfer, you should be able to through Varo’s mobile app using WorldRemit. You can also contact Varo’s customer support to ask about other possible solutions.

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Varo Bank international wire transfer fee

If you make an international transfer through a third-party provider such as WorldRemit, you'll need to pay their fees, which can range anywhere from 5 to 75 USD per transfer. Varo may charge their own fee as well.

💡 Learn how to avoid international wire transfer fees in our full guide.

For domestic transactions, Varo makes things much simpler. You can send or receive money for free using the Varo to Anyone feature in your app - all you need is an email address or US phone number.²

Varo Bank exchange rates

Converting your USD to foreign currency often comes with hidden costs. Financial providers typically add extra markup to the mid-market exchange rate you see on Google to make extra profit.

For example, if the current exchange rate shows 1 USD = 0.92 EUR, a bank or transfer service might give you a 1 USD = 0.88 EUR rate. For a 500 USD transfer, that's a whopping 20 EUR lost in hidden fees.

Varo partners with third-party providers to make international transfers possible. Each of these providers could use their own marked-up exchange rate, reducing the amount your recipient gets.

💡 Wise can help you save on exchange rate markups and hidden fees. See how Wise compares and make a fast, cheap and secure international transfer:

The true cost of sending USD to GBP

How do you make a Varo Bank international wire transfer?

You can use WorldRemit to send money internationally through Varo’s mobile app.

To send money:

Step 1. Choose your destination country

Step 2. Make sure that USA is selected as your sending country

Step 3. Decide how you want to send the money

Step 4. Enter the amount you want to send

Step 5. Review the fees and exchange rates

Step 6. Create your account (you’ll need your address, email, and phone number)

Step 7. Enter your recipient’s details

Step 8. Pay the fees and confirm the transfer³

What information do I need to make an international wire transfer?

For any international wire transfer, whether through Varo or another provider, you'll need important details to make sure your money reaches the right person.

Typically, here's what you'll need for a traditional SWIFT transfer:

  • Recipient's full legal name as shown on their bank account
  • Recipient's complete bank account number
  • Recipient's bank name and address
  • Bank's SWIFT/BIC code
  • Recipient's physical address
  • Purpose of your transfer

When using a third-party provider like WorldRemit, you may need fewer details - especially for cash pickups. Typically, you’ll only need their full name, phone number, and email address.

Financial providers can also ask for extra verification or different forms of identification to process your transfer. Sometimes you may also need an international wire routing number.

How long does an international wire transfer with Varo Bank take?

WorldRemit, Varo’s preferred third-party provider, claims that in most cases, transfers will arrive within minutes and you’ll be able to see the expected delivery time before you make your payment.⁴

Varo itself doesn't specify any international wire transfer timelines. Typically, international wire transfers take from 1 to 5 business days.

Your transfer could face delays if:

  • The receiving country has strict banking regulations
  • Your transfer amount triggers additional security checks
  • The recipient's information isn't correct

You can track your international wire transfer for a more accurate estimation.

What is the wire transfer limit for Varo Bank?

Varo Bank doesn't publish their transfer limits, even for domestic transfers. Different accounts likely have different limits based on factors like how long you've had your account, your account balance, and your transfer history.

Keep in mind that third-party service providers, such as WorldRemit, typically have lower transfer limits than traditional SWIFT wire transfers.

To find out your specific limits, you'll need to contact Varo's customer service.

These limits are security measures that help prevent fraud and money laundering. Learn more about international wire transfer regulations here.

Varo Bank contact information

Varo's main support channel is through their mobile app.⁵ To reach customer service:

  1. Open the Varo app
  2. Tap "My Varo"
  3. Select "Help and support"
  4. Choose "Contact us"

For specific issues, you can call 1-877-377-VARO (8276) if you need help with:

  • Disputing a transaction
  • Logging in to your account
  • Adding your Varo card to your digital wallet⁵

Varo Bank international wire transfer FAQs


Does Varo Bank have a SWIFT code?

No, Varo Bank doesn't have a SWIFT code. A SWIFT code helps banks identify each other when sending money across borders. Varo is a US-based bank that doesn’t directly send money to overseas banks, meaning they don't have this international banking code.

Does Varo Bank accept ACH transfers?

Yes, you can receive ACH transfers like direct deposits straight to your Varo account. For sending money, Varo offers their "Varo to Anyone" feature, but this only works within the US.

Is Varo Bank a virtual bank?

Yes, Varo operates entirely online and doesn't have physical branches. They're a fully digital bank that handles all services through their mobile app and website.


Sending money to another country directly with Varo Bank is impossible. They're a US-based bank that doesn't have a SWIFT code.

However, they use third-party providers, such as WorldRemit, to facilitate international transfers. It’s a fast and convenient service, but it’ll charge you fees and exchange rate markups.

For a fast, simple and secure alternative for sending money abroad, use Wise.

Sources

  1. WorldRemit - WorldRemit becomes the preferred remittance provider for challenger bank leader Varo Money
  2. Varo - Transfer money
  3. WorldRemit - Varo
  4. WorldRemit
  5. Varo - Contact us
Sources checked 01.15.2025


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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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