How to send money to Sri Lanka from the UK

Money to Sri Lanka made simple

Sending money back home should be quick, affordable, and safe. If you support family, pay bills, or cover emergencies in Sri Lanka, you do not want guesswork around fees or exchange rates. The good news is there are several UK-friendly services offering fast delivery, fair pricing, and transparent costs. The right choice depends on speed, how your recipient wants to receive funds, and the total cost after fees and the exchange rate.

This guide walks you through your best options from the UK, including instant card deliveries, same-day bank deposits, and nationwide cash pickup. We will keep it simple and objective so you can choose confidently, avoid hidden charges, and get more Sri Lankan rupees to the people who need them.

Straight talk: Look at total cost - fees plus the exchange rate - before you send.

Who this helps

If you live in the UK and send money to Sri Lanka regularly or occasionally, this guide is for you. It suits anyone comparing costs across apps, needing urgent transfers in minutes, or wanting reliable cash pickup for family members without a bank account. We focus on safe, regulated providers UK consumers can use today.

What you are choosing between

At a high level, you are choosing how funds arrive and how quickly they get there. Services offer different delivery types: direct bank deposits, debit or credit card transfers, cash pickup, mobile wallet, and app-to-app transfers. Each route balances speed and cost differently.

Wise is known for using the mid-market exchange rate with an upfront fee, which often makes it the cheapest for GBP to LKR, with total costs reported from £7.05 depending on the amount and method. Revolut can deliver to cards in seconds to minutes, and Revolut-to-Revolut transfers can be instant without a fee inside the app. Ria can deliver in as fast as 15 minutes with cash pickup or bank deposit options, handy for urgent family needs. Western Union covers thousands of locations across Sri Lanka for cash pickup, useful where bank access is limited. Teeparam offers a simple fee of £3 for transfers up to £1,000 with same-day or next working day delivery, while Xe provides flexible UK funding options to suit your budget and timing.

If your recipient prefers bank deposit, Global Exchange focuses on same-day crediting to Sri Lankan accounts. For app-first senders, MoneyGram offers a highly rated mobile experience. Remitly adds flexibility with bank, card, cash pickup, and mobile wallet deliveries. The right pick depends on urgency, delivery method, and the total you and your recipient keep.

Step-by-step to a secure, low-cost transfer

First, set your priorities: speed, cost, or convenience for your recipient. If speed matters most, Revolut card transfers or Ria’s rapid delivery can be ideal. For lowest total cost, compare Wise’s mid-market rates and transparent fees against others at your exact amount.

Next, compare total costs in real time. Most apps show a fee breakdown and exchange rate before you send. Check weekday pricing windows if you use an app that offers better rates within plan limits. Be wary of zeros that hide elsewhere, such as weak exchange rates.

Then, verify recipient details carefully. For bank deposits, match the name and account numbers exactly. For cash pickup via Western Union or Ria, confirm the recipient’s full name as shown on their ID and share the tracking code only with them.

Finally, choose a funding method that suits your budget and timeframe. Debit card is typically faster than bank transfer, and often cheaper than credit card. When time allows, bank transfer can reduce fees further.

Next steps you can take today:

• Compare total cost across two or three providers for your amount.
• Choose speed vs price and lock a rate you are happy with.
• Send a small test transfer to confirm details before larger amounts.

Why the costs and speeds differ

Providers make money through fees and the exchange rate. Some charge a small, transparent fee while using the mid-market rate. Others advertise low or zero fees but offer a weaker rate. Delivery method matters too: app-to-app transfers or card-to-card can arrive in seconds, while traditional bank routes may take longer. Funding choice also affects price - debit can be cheaper than credit, and faster than bank transfer, although bank transfer can lower card processing costs.

Coverage in Sri Lanka can influence your decision. If your family needs rupees in cash, Western Union and Ria’s extensive pickup networks add certainty. If they have a bank account and value speed, Global Exchange same-day deposits or Teeparam’s same-day or next working day processing could be more efficient. If you transfer frequently, Wise and Revolut offer strong digital experiences with live rates and clear fees, while Xe provides flexibility in how you pay. Remitly and MoneyGram round out the options with reliable mobile-first journeys.

The best deal is the one that reaches your recipient safely, on time, and at the lowest total cost.

Quick provider comparison

Pros and cons at a glance

Watch-outs before you hit send

Exchange rates move during the day, and some providers offer stronger rates on weekdays. If your transfer is not urgent, checking at a different time can save money. Always compare the total you pay in pounds against the LKR your recipient will receive, not just the headline fee. If a price looks too good to be true, the difference may sit in the exchange rate.

Double-check names, account numbers, and pickup locations. One character out can delay or cancel a transfer. For cash pickup, remind your recipient to bring valid ID matching the name you entered. Avoid credit cards if you can, as they can introduce cash advance fees from your card issuer. Stick to reputable, regulated brands and use in-app security like two-factor authentication. Keep your tracking codes private and only share them with your intended recipient.

Other ways to move money

1. Bank-to-bank via your UK bank - simple but often pricier and slower.
2. Couriering cash - not recommended due to loss and theft risk.
3. Prepaid travel cards - can work, but fees and exchange rates may be weaker.
4. Cryptocurrency - high risk and volatility, not suitable for everyday remittances.
5. Cheques or drafts - very slow and hard to track.

Your questions answered

How fast can money reach Sri Lanka?

With the right service, delivery can be near-instant for card or in-app transfers. Ria can complete in about 15 minutes. Bank deposits range from minutes to same day depending on funding and provider.

What is usually the cheapest way?

Services that use the mid-market exchange rate with a clear fee are typically cheapest. Wise is often the lowest total cost for GBP to LKR, though you should compare live pricing for your amount.

Is cash pickup safe?

Yes, when you use regulated providers and keep your tracking code secure. Make sure the recipient’s name exactly matches their ID and choose a convenient, trusted pickup location.

Which payment method should I use?

Debit card is a good balance of speed and cost. Bank transfer can be cheapest if you are not in a rush. Credit cards may add extra issuer fees, so check before using one.

Can I track my transfer?

Most services provide real-time tracking. Western Union uses an MTCN code for updates. Apps like Revolut, Wise, Ria, Remitly, and MoneyGram show status in-app and send notifications.

Where Switcha fits in

At switcha, our aim is to help you keep more of your money when you send it home. We compare trusted UK providers side by side so you can see the real cost - fee plus exchange rate - before you commit. Whether you need instant delivery to a card, same-day cash pickup, or the lowest-cost bank deposit, we point you toward the services that best match your priorities. We focus on clear, unbiased guidance that removes the jargon and highlights what actually matters: speed, safety, and total value received in Sri Lankan rupees. Compare your options, pick with confidence, and send with peace of mind.

Choose speed when it matters, choose price when it does not - and always check the total.

Important information

This guide is for general information only and is not financial advice. Pricing, exchange rates, and speeds change frequently. Always check live costs and terms with the provider before sending and ensure transfers comply with UK and Sri Lankan regulations.