Sending money to France from the UK? Here's what to know

Transferring money from the UK to France is something many people do. It could be to pay for a home, support family, or move savings after relocating. But banks often make it more expensive than it should be. From hidden fees to poor exchange rates, these small costs can add up, especially on large transfers.

At Currencyflow, we help individuals and businesses send GBP to France faster and more cost-effectively. You get access to strong exchange rates, no fees, and expert guidance every step of the way.

Why people transfer money from the UK to France

House

Buying property in France

From Paris apartments to Dordogne farmhouses, buying property in France often means sending a large deposit or multiple stage payments. We help time your transfers, lock in competitive rates, and move funds securely through SEPA.

Family

Supporting family in France

Whether it’s parents who’ve retired to the south or children studying abroad, family support is a common reason for transfers. We make regular payments more affordable and predictable, without bank charges.

Education

Paying tuition or living costs

France is home to world-class universities and international schools. If you're paying fees or rent, we help you move GBP to EUR quickly, reliably, and without overpaying on the exchange rate.

City

Moving savings across borders

If you live in France or split time between the UK and EU, you may want to transfer savings between accounts. We convert GBP to EUR at competitive rates and deliver the funds to your French bank account with SEPA speed.

How to transfer money to France from the UK

1

Get a personalised quote

Tell us how much you’re sending and when. We’ll give you a tailored GBP to EUR rate.

2

Open your account

Our team will help you set up your Currencyflow account by phone or email. It’s quick and free.

3

Fund your transfer

Send your pounds to your safeguarded Currencyflow account via UK bank transfer. We’ll confirm once your funds arrive.

4

We convert and send your euros

Your GBP is exchanged at the agreed rate and sent to the recipient’s bank account in France, usually same day or next working day.

Get my GBP to EUR quote

Currencyflow vs. Banks

Feature Currencyflow High Street Banks
Exchange Rate Low-margin, personalisedd Often 3–5% markup
Transfer Fees None Yes, plus possible SWIFT fees
Speed Same-day or next working day 2–5 working days
Support Phone, email, live chat, WhatsApp Call centres or in-branch
Rate Lock Yes Rarely offered
Account Setup Fast and guided by a specialist Paperwork-heavy, slower

Understanding the GBP to EUR exchange rate

Why it matters

A small improvement in the exchange rate can make a big difference, especially on large transfers over £10,000. Currencyflow offers bank-beating rates with no hidden margins.

Mid-market rate vs. bank rates

Banks often build in a markup of 3–5% and don’t always disclose it. Our rates track the real market rate with a small, transparent margin.

Exchange rates move daily

The GBP to EUR rate is affected by interest rates, economic reports, and political events. If timing matters, we’ll help you choose the best time, or lock in a fixed rate with a forward contract.

What is SEPA and why it helps

SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) allows fast, low-cost euro transfers across EU countries, including France. It’s one of the reasons we can deliver euros faster and more affordably than many banks.

We regularly send money to popular French banks like BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, Société Générale, and La Banque Postale.

SEPA transfers usually arrive same day or next working day, with no receiving fees from most French banks.

What you'll need to send money from the UK to France

To transfer money to a French bank account, you’ll need:

Basic requirements:

  • Valid photo ID (e.g. passport or driving licence)
  • Proof of UK address (e.g. utility bill or bank statement)
  • Recipient’s full name and French bank details (IBAN)
  • Purpose of the transfer (e.g. property, family, savings)

How long does it take to transfer money from the UK to France?

Most transfers from the UK to France arrive same day or next working day. Speed depends on:

  • Time of day you fund the transfer
  • Whether all recipient details are complete
  • Required compliance checks
  • French banking hours and holidays

Legal and tax notes for UK to France transfers

  • The UK doesn’t charge tax for sending personal funds abroad
  • France may require incoming transfers over €10,000 to be declared, especially if considered a gift
  • Property-related transfers typically don’t count as gifts, but must be documented
  • France and the UK have a double taxation agreement, so income (like pensions) isn’t taxed twice
  • If you’re transferring large sums, speak with a French tax advisor to ensure everything is reported properly

Why trust Currencyflow

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Your money is protected

Funds are held in safeguarded client accounts through our FCA-regulated e-money partners. This keeps your money separate from business operations and protected at all times.
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30+ years of currency expertise

Our leadership team has over 30 years of combined experience in currency transfers and international payments. We understand how to manage risk and keep your transfer running smoothly.
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Built-in fraud protection

We use secure processes including two-factor authentication and transaction monitoring to protect your account. Every transfer is verified for safety.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to send money from the UK to France?

Usually same day or next working day via SEPA. Currencyflow is faster than most high-street banks.

What is SEPA and do I need to register for it?

SEPA is an EU payment system for euro transfers. You don’t need to register, we use SEPA automatically when sending to France.

Are there tax implications when sending money to France?

France may require reporting for transfers over €10,000, especially gifts. Property or business payments are usually exempt. Always document large transfers.

Can I lock in an exchange rate for a future transfer?

Yes, we offer forward contracts to fix the GBP to EUR rate for up to 12 months. Ideal for property or planned investments.

Get a quote now

It's free and easy