Send money to India from Singapore: compare rates, fees and speed
NRIs in Singapore can send money to India via Wise, Remitly, Singapore bank transfers or specialist remittance services. SGD-INR rates vary by provider. Compare the total INR received after the provider's spread and fees — not just the headline rate.
Compare total INR received across at least two providers
For SGD-to-INR transfers from Singapore, Wise typically offers mid-market rates with a transparent fee. Singapore bank transfers (DBS, OCBC, UOB) are slower and apply a 1–3% spread. For regular large transfers, compare a specialist broker or use the same provider consistently and watch the SGD-INR benchmark on NRI Desk.
Key points
- Wise is usually cheapest — Wise typically offers the mid-market SGD-INR rate plus a transparent fee — usually the lowest cost option for bank-to-bank transfers.
- SGD is a managed float — MAS manages SGD against a basket — SGD-INR can move independently of USD-INR, so monitor both.
- DBS PayNow-UPI link — DBS Singapore offers a PayNow-to-UPI instant transfer corridor — competitive for small amounts sent to UPI-linked Indian accounts.
How to compare SGD-INR providers
Note the current SGD-INR mid-market rate on NRI Desk. Then enter the same SGD amount on Wise, Remitly and your Singapore bank's international transfer page.
Compare: exchange rate offered, total fees, INR the recipient receives, and delivery time. The highest INR received wins — not the lowest fee in isolation.
Singapore bank vs online provider
DBS Remit: competitive rates for INR corridor, no transfer fee for qualifying accounts, 1–2 business days or near-instant via IMPS.
OCBC/UOB: apply a spread; check their rates on the day versus Wise before transferring.
Wise: mid-market rate, transparent fee, 1–2 days. Best for amounts where a 0.5–1% spread saving is material.
Instarem (Singapore-based): another competitive option for SGD-INR; compare alongside Wise.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a limit on sending money to India from Singapore?
Singapore has no general cap on personal outward remittances. India has no cap on inward transfers. Providers may apply their own due-diligence checks for large amounts.
Can I send SGD directly to an NRE account?
Yes. NRE accounts accept inward remittances in any freely convertible foreign currency including SGD. The bank converts at its own rate — compare with a direct Wise transfer to see which gives more INR.
How do I set a rate alert for SGD-INR?
Use NRI Desk — sign in and set a target rate for SGD/INR. You will receive an email when the rate reaches your target.