If someone is sending you money from abroad through Wise (formerly TransferWise), you might be wondering: can I receive it directly into my Jamaican bank account? The answer is yes — with a few key details to get it right. This 2025 guide explains how to receive international transfers from Wise into your account in Jamaica.
What Is Wise?
Wise is a global money transfer platform that offers low-cost, fast currency transfers. It’s used to send funds from the US, UK, Canada, and other countries to recipients worldwide — including Jamaica.
Can Jamaicans Receive Money via Wise?
Yes, Jamaicans can receive money through Wise, but not directly in JMD (Jamaican dollars). Here’s how it works:
- The sender sends money in USD, GBP, CAD, or another supported currency
- The recipient must have a Jamaican bank account that accepts USD
- The funds are wired to your bank account in foreign currency (typically USD)
Which Jamaican Banks Accept Wise Transfers?
Most major Jamaican banks can receive international wire transfers in USD. These include:
- National Commercial Bank (NCB)
- Scotiabank Jamaica
- JMMB Bank
- Sagicor Bank
- First Global Bank
Ask your bank if your account is set up to receive USD wire transfers. Some accounts are JMD-only by default and may need to be upgraded.
Details You’ll Need to Receive Money from Wise
To receive money from Wise, you’ll need to give the sender the following:
- Your full name (as on your bank account)
- Your Jamaican bank name
- Your USD account number
- Your bank’s SWIFT/BIC code
- Your branch address
Some banks also require a routing number (especially if routed through a US correspondent bank). Wise will provide clear instructions on what’s needed.
How Long Does It Take?
Transfers from Wise to Jamaica usually take 1 to 3 business days, depending on the currency and bank. You’ll get email updates from Wise once the money has been sent and received.
Fees and Exchange Rates
Wise is known for transparency and competitive fees. Your sender will see the total cost upfront, and you’ll receive the exact amount sent in USD. Your bank may charge a small incoming wire fee (e.g., US $10–$20).
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- Double-check your bank details — errors may delay or reject the transfer
- Tell your sender to choose USD as the currency
- Ask your bank if there are special instructions for receiving wires via a correspondent bank
Final Thoughts
Getting money from Wise into a Jamaican bank account is simple once your account is ready to receive USD. With the right details and a trusted sender, you can enjoy quick, low-fee transfers from abroad directly to your local bank.
Need help opening a USD account? Read our guide: How to Open a US Bank Account from Jamaica
