You'll need to know the person's name, account number, bank name and where the bank is located. In some circumstances, you would be able to send a transfer to someone who does not have a bank account. Different countries and banks have varying regulations on this. For the safest bet, if the person does not have a bank account, mail a draft to them directly, or consider Western Union or MoneyGram, listed below. Otherwise ask your bank for more specific details based on the country and bank.
Wire transfers are fast depending on the country, it takes two to three days on average.
Some smaller banks in countries like India and Bangladesh, however, can hold transfer money for a few weeks, so be sure to ask about the timeframe when placing your transfer. Sending a transfer in U.S. dollars can also slow down the process. Western Union and MoneyGram Western Union and MoneyGram are two companies that send international money transfers. You pay up front via cash or credit card, and the transfer is sent in the local foreign currency. Your options include sending the transfer at an actual storefront or, in Western Union's case, using their online service.