ABSA Bank Western Union

ABSA Bank Western Union

Available through our digital channels, Western Union is an international payment service that gives you access to over 500 000 agents in more than 200 countries and territories.

Why should I use Western Union?

Reliability

• Each transfer can be tracked using a money transfer control number (MTCN)
• The sender gives this number to the receiver, ensuring that only the receiver can collect the money
• Positive identification is required to redeem the funds

Speed

• Advanced technology and a unique, worldwide network ensure quick payout
• Money is available for collection in minutes (subject to agent operating hours and differences in time zones)

Convenience

• Register for Absa Online and experience the convenience of sending or receiving money with internet or cell phone banking. Please note that, in certain countries, only the ‘receive money’ service is available. 

Regulations and documentation

The following types of Western Union receive transactions are allowed:

• Foreign students studying in South Africa receiving funds from abroad to pay for their living expenses, tuition, books, etc.
• Earnings of SA resident temporarily abroad
• Monetary gifts received from abroad, other than to charitable, religious, cultural or educational organisations

The following persons cannot perform a Western Union money transfer transaction:

• Foreign tourists visiting South Africa receiving funds from abroad for their holiday or business visit to South Africa
• Residents of Lesotho, Swaziland and Namibia
• Non-residents are not allowed to send or receive funds to or from South Africa via Western Union

How it works online

If you’re registered for Absa Online banking, you can use the Western Union service by clicking on the International Funds Transfer gadget under the Payments function.

How do I send money using Western Union?

• There are three ways to send money with us via Western Union:
  •  Use Absa Online Banking: Select International payment from the payments tab. 
  • Use your Absa Banking App: Select International payment via the pay tab.
  • Visit an Absa branch.Please note that in certain countries, only the receive money service is available.

Who can use the Western Union money service?

• The following Western Union receive transactions are allowed:
  • Foreign students studying in South Africa can receive funds from abroad. 
  • South African residents who are temporarily abroad can send their earnings. 
  • Monetary gifts received from abroad, other than to charitable, religious, cultural or educational organisations.
  • Foreign tourists receiving funds from abroad for their holiday or business visit to South Africa. Residents of Lesotho, Swaziland or Namibia. Non-residents are not allowed to send or receive funds from South Africa.