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Western Union remains one of the most widely used methods to transfer money from Turkey to abroad, offering a lifeline for those needing to move cash without a bank account. As of December 2025, you can send or receive money in minutes through an extensive network of partner banks, PTT (Turkish Post) branches, and authorized agents like BPN across the country.
Western Union supports transfers to destinations in Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. However, new financial regulations in 2025—including strict cash payment limits, have changed how these transactions work. We explain all the updated details below.
Money Transfer Outside Turkey
You can send money via Western Union in Turkey in two main ways, but be aware of the new transaction limits.
With Your Bank Account
As of 2025, several major Turkish banks partner with Western Union, including Akbank, Garanti BBVA, Türkiye İş Bankası (İş Bankası), QNB Finansbank, Şekerbank, Yapı Kredi Bankası, and Ziraat Bank. Customers can typically initiate transfers through online banking portals or mobile apps 24/7.
2025 Fee Update: Online transfers from bank accounts now follow specific fee tiers. For example, sending small amounts between 0.01–200.00 TL typically incurs a fee of approximately 25.00–30.00 TL, while amounts between 200.01–400.00 TL see fees around 45.00–50.00 TL.
- Log in to your bank’s internet or mobile banking.
- Choose International Transfers or the Western Union option (wording varies by bank).
- Enter the recipient’s details and the destination country.
- Review the estimated fees and current exchange rate (approx. 42.67 TL = 1 USD as of December 2025), then confirm your transfer.
Without a Bank Account (In-Person)
If you do not have an account with a partner bank, you can send money in person at authorized agent locations. PTT (the national post office) is the most common option, found in almost every neighborhood. You can also visit BPN locations, Albaraka Türk, Fibabanka, or Türkiye Finans Katılım Bankası.
⚠️ Important 2025 Regulation: A new domestic regulation now limits cash payments within Turkey to 30,000 TL. If your transfer amount plus fees exceeds 30,000 TL, you cannot pay in cash; you must use a card or bank transfer to fund the transaction at the agent.
- Request a send form and fill in your details and the recipient’s information.
- Present valid identification (Passport, Turkish ID, or Residence Permit).
- Pay the amount. Remember the 30,000 TL cash cap mentioned above.
- After the transfer is completed, you will receive the MTCN (Money Transfer Control Number). Share this securely with the recipient.
Wise (formerly TransferWise) in 2025
Known for transparent exchange rates, Wise remains a popular alternative, but there are significant restrictions for Turkish residents in 2025.
Crucial Wise Restrictions
While you can still use Wise to send money from a Turkish bank account to abroad, or receive money into your Turkish bank account, you cannot hold a balance in Turkish Lira (TRY). The “digital wallet” feature for TRY is disabled due to local regulations. This means:
- You cannot open a new TRY account to get a local IBAN.
- Funds sent to you must be deposited directly into your external bank account.
- You cannot keep money in a Wise “jar” in Lira.
Despite this, it remains an excellent tool for direct bank-to-bank transfers with low fees.
Start with Wise to compare costs versus Western Union for your specific transfer.
Western Union Turkey Transfer Fees
Western Union fees are dynamic, but 2025 data gives us clearer benchmarks. Fees depend on:
- Send Amount: Fee tiers often jump at 200 TL, 400 TL, and 600 TL thresholds.
- Payment Method: Cash at an agent is often more expensive than online bank transfers.
- Exchange Rate: With the USD/TRY rate hovering around 42.67 TL (Dec 2025), even small percentage markups in the exchange rate can significantly affect the final cost.
For the most current fees, use the official estimator on the Western Union Turkey website. Be aware that your bank may charge additional “cash advance” fees if you fund a transfer with a credit card.
Receiving a Western Union Transfer in Turkey
You can receive transfers at PTT branches, partner banks, and via BPN locations. Always bring valid ID; the name on the transfer must match your ID exactly.
Receiving at PTT Branches
- Visit a PTT branch: These are the yellow-and-blue post offices found in every district.
- Complete the form: You will need the MTCN.
- Show ID: A passport or Turkish Kimlik is required.
- Collect Funds: You can receive in Turkish Lira, Euros, or US Dollars, subject to branch availability.
Traveler Tip: If you are a tourist receiving cash to take home, note that the limit for taking Turkish Lira out of the country has been increased. As of 2025, you can now carry up to 185,000 TL (approx. $4,300 USD) without a customs declaration. The limit for foreign currency remains equivalent to 10,000 Euros.
Planning a visit? Check public holidays in Turkey in 2025 before you go, as PTT branches and banks close on national and religious holidays.
Receiving via Banks and ATMs
If you have an account with a partner bank (like Ziraat, İş Bankası, or Akbank), the fastest way to receive money is often via their mobile app. This avoids the need to carry large amounts of cash.
- Mobile Banking: Log in and find the Western Union “Receive Money” menu. Enter the MTCN to deposit funds instantly to your account.
- ATMs: Some banks allow you to withdraw Western Union transfers directly from their ATMs using your card and the MTCN. Daily withdrawal limits (typically around 15,000–20,000 TL) apply.
Local Alternatives: Uption and Mobile Wallets
In 2025, new competitors have emerged. Uption (by UPT) is a strong local alternative that offers European IBANs for Turkish residents and flat-fee transfers (often around 1 USD/EUR). Additionally, services like Remitly now allow transfers directly to Turkish digital wallets like Papara, offering another way to bypass physical branches.
Western Union Transfer Tracking
You can track your transfer status by clicking here. You will need the MTCN provided by the sender.
Find the Nearest Western Union Location
To find agents, including the widespread PTT and BPN networks, click here. You can search by city or district (Ilçe).
Download the Western Union App
Get the official app for price estimates and tracking: Android | iOS.
Helpful Resources
- Budget your transfers by understanding the cost of living in Turkey in US dollars.
- If you encounter hidden fees or issues with an agent, refer to our guide on consumer protection in Turkey.
- Check the calendar for public holidays to avoid closed branches.
