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Transfer money to another country before leaving Germany

Selected criteria

  1. I’m planning to leave Germany
  2. Bank accounts and finances
  3. Transfer money to another country

Before leaving Germany, first determine where and in which currency the money must arrive, then choose a clear bank transfer method. For euro payments within SEPA, a regular transfer using an IBAN is suitable; for other destinations, the terms, currency and possible intermediaries require separate checks. If the recipient is in Russia, confirm with your bank in advance whether the transaction is possible and prepare evidence of its purpose. Do not rush to send a large amount: check the bank details, cost and limits in the tariff, and start a new route with a small test transaction. Do not give bank access to third parties or agree to transfer money because of someone else’s urgent request. This route helps you prepare a transfer step by step, compare available options and reduce the risk of delay or error.

Plan overview

Prepare an international transfer: choose the appropriate payment type, check the bank’s terms, bank details and transaction security.

What to do step by step

  1. 1

    Determine the country, currency and transfer type

    First find out whether it will be a euro payment within SEPA or an international transfer in another currency.

    Articles for this step

    Money transfers in Germany and SEPA: IBAN, timing, fees, and security
  2. 2

    Check transfers to Russia separately

    If the money is going to Russia, confirm with the bank whether the transaction is possible, the recipient requirements and documents supporting its purpose.

    Articles for this step

    How to Transfer Money from Germany to Russia: SWIFT, Sanctions, and Safe Options
  3. 3

    Compare available methods and service terms

    Assess whether the chosen account or service is suitable for the transfer, currency and further use of the money abroad.

    Articles for this step

    Revolut in Germany: Account, Card, Transfers, Cryptocurrency and Investments
  4. 4

    Check bank fees, limits and terms

    Before confirming the transaction, review the account documents and the cost of the required transfer method.

    Articles for this step

    AGB, Fees and Bank Customer Rights in Germany
  5. 5

    Prepare the bank details and send the transfer

    Check the IBAN, recipient, amount and payment reference; for a new route, start with a small test transaction.

    Articles for this step

    Money transfers in Germany and SEPA: IBAN, timing, fees, and security How to Transfer Money from Germany to Russia: SWIFT, Sanctions, and Safe Options
  6. 6

    Protect the transfer from fraud

    Do not act under pressure or use your account to make transfers at the request of strangers.

    Articles for this step

    Fraud in Germany: Common Schemes and How to Protect Yourself

Important notes

  • For a transfer to Russia, confirm with your bank in advance that it can process the specific transaction.
  • A transfer in a currency other than euro may differ in terms, costs and exchange rate.
  • Check a specific service’s current terms before using it.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming SWIFT guarantees a transfer
  • Transfer money under pressure