A title of GlobalCitizen.guide by GMC PublishingAll publications
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Multi-currency account (e-money)

Wise

A multi-currency account and card known for transfers at the mid-market exchange rate with a visible fee.

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Arthur's summary · Wise

Money & banking in three points

  1. Exchange rates and fees. How close the exchange rate is to the mid-market rate, and which fees apply to transfers and card use.
  2. Licence and deposit protection. Whether the provider holds a full banking licence with deposit guarantee, or is an e-money institution that safeguards funds.
  3. Opening from abroad. Whether you can open the account remotely, and which proof of address and residence is accepted.

Headquarters

London, United Kingdom

Founded

2011

Regulation

Regulated as an e-money institution in the markets it serves; [licence details by country]

Website

wise.com

What they offer

  • Hold and convert 40+ currencies
  • Local account details in several currencies
  • Debit card for spending abroad

Best for

  • Frequent currency conversion
  • Receiving income in several currencies

Worth knowing

  • Fees and limits differ by country of residence — confirm them for yours before signing
  • Ask Arthur to compare this provider with the others for your situation

Stärken / Strengths

Strong for:Frequent currency conversion
Rating of Wise
Exchange rates and fees[Not yet assessed / Noch nicht geprüft]
Licence and deposit protection[Not yet assessed / Noch nicht geprüft]
Opening from abroad[Not yet assessed / Noch nicht geprüft]
Cards and cash[Not yet assessed / Noch nicht geprüft]
Transfers and local rails[Not yet assessed / Noch nicht geprüft]

Compare with others

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  • Strong for:EU residents needing a local IBAN

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    N26

    A mobile bank account with a European IBAN, aimed at residents of the countries it serves.

    Strong for:EU residents needing a local IBAN
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  • Strong for:Higher balances

    Offshore expat banking

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    Strong for:Higher balances
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Talk to a specialist

Arthur answers immediately and, for members, prepares the next steps with the right specialist.

  • Which account type fits your situation
  • What opening from abroad requires
  • How fees compare for your transfer volume