Remittance guide

Send money to Ethiopia safely.

Use an NBE-listed service, compare the final ETB received and confirm the recipient route before you pay. A headline fee alone does not show the real transfer cost.

Reviewed September 16, 2026 · Rules and provider terms can change

Start with the official register

The National Bank of Ethiopia says the public should use licensed remittance services. Its live register is the starting point, but you must also confirm that the service supports your sending country and the recipient method you need.

Choose how the recipient will receive money

Bank deposit: verify the account holder name, bank and account number.
Mobile wallet: verify the registered name and phone number.
Cash pickup: check the exact location, opening hours, transfer reference and accepted identification.
Foreign-currency account: confirm currency, eligibility and bank instructions before sending.

Compare the complete price

Request live quotes from two or more providers at nearly the same time. Use the same send amount and payment method. Record the provider fee, exchange rate, total amount charged and final ETB the recipient receives. Promotions should be noted separately because a first transfer may not represent the normal cost.

Check timing and limits

Read the estimated delivery time and what can delay it.
Confirm minimum and maximum transfer limits.
Allow for weekends, compliance reviews and Ethiopian bank or cash-pickup opening hours.
Do not promise the recipient an exact arrival time until the provider confirms the transfer.

Prevent mistakes and fraud

Match the recipient name exactly to the bank, wallet or identification document.
Review every digit before payment and keep the receipt or transfer reference.
Never send through an unlicensed person or an offer that asks you to bypass the provider platform.
Contact the provider immediately if the status, recipient or amount is wrong.

Important

This page provides general information, not a guaranteed exchange quote, legal opinion or personal financial advice. Confirm the current requirements, limits, fees and accepted documents directly with the relevant bank or authority before acting.