Send money to Ukraine from Spain
Remittances to Ukraine arrive in hryvnias (UAH) and stand out for their digitalisation: the most common method is not cash but sending directly to the recipient's bank card, instant on most services.
The Ukrainian community in Spain, already large before 2022, grew notably with the arrival of refugees and is spread between Madrid, the Mediterranean coast and Andalusia. Ukrainian banking is among Europe's most digitalised, and it shows in how remittances are received: the card replaces the counter.
Options for sending money to Ukraine
In cash, from an agent location
The most used method: you bring cash to an agent (Western Union, Ria, MoneyGram), provide the recipient's details, and within minutes it is available for collection in Ukraine. Spain has thousands of agents, many in call shops and neighbourhood stores:
With an app or online service
Services such as Wise, Remitly, WorldRemit or the Western Union and Ria apps let you send from your phone by card or bank transfer. They tend to offer good exchange rates and first-transfer promotions, and the recipient can receive to an account or collect cash in Ukraine.
International bank transfer
An international transfer from your bank is usually the most expensive and slowest option to Ukraine (issuing fees, correspondent fees and exchange margin). For this corridor an agent or a specialised app is almost always better value.
How the recipient gets the money in Ukraine
Most transfers are received directly on cards from banks such as PrivatBank or monobank, within minutes. Cash collection remains available at bank branches and partner agents, subject to local conditions in each area.
Tip: If the recipient has a Ukrainian card, card transfer is almost always the best option: instant and well-priced on digital services. Check with the recipient that their bank operates normally in their area before choosing cash.
What you need to send
To send money you need a valid ID (passport, DNI or NIE) and the recipient's details. To collect money you will also be asked for the transaction number (MTCN / PIN). The amount is paid out in cash at the agent location.
How much it costs to send money
The real cost has two parts: the transfer fee and the margin on the exchange rate. Combined, the total cost typically sits between 2% and 6% of the amount, although it varies by operator, amount and payment method. Always compare how much the recipient will get in their currency, not just the advertised fee.
Frequently asked questions about sending money to Ukraine
How long does money take to arrive in Ukraine?
To a bank card, usually minutes. Cash is also available within minutes where the service operates normally.
In which currency does money arrive in Ukraine?
Normally in hryvnias (UAH); some services allow receiving euros or dollars into foreign-currency accounts.
What does the recipient need to receive money in Ukraine?
For card transfers, just the 16-digit card number. For cash, their internal passport or ID and the transaction code.