Every penny counts when it comes to transferring money to France.

While arranging a transfer with your bank might be the simplest option, it is not necessarily the cheapest. A variety of different charges can apply, both for the sender and the recipient.

Using a currency transfer specialist is the main alternative. Advantages include cheaper transfers and the chance to set up regular payment schemes at pre-agreed rates.

We recommend you shop around, especially before transferring large sums such as the deposit for a house purchase in France. The same applies for regular, ongoing transfers, such as your British pension or paying a mortgage.

Useful tip

• Some companies claim to be commission-free, then load the exchange rate so you get fewer euros for your pound. You need to ask yourself: “How many euros will I get for my pounds, after all charges?”

In the full Moving to France helpguide, we explain:

• Understanding exchange rates
• What to consider when making a transfer
• Getting the cheapest deal available
• Using a bank or a currency specialist
• Getting your pension paid in France
• Making regular transfers
• Using forward contracts to fix a rate
• Customer protection and FSA registration

Download the guide as a PDF now from this link
…or ask a question about this topic in the comment box below.