Once you're earning in Japan, sending money home is one of the first things you'll want to do well. The difference between a good and a bad remittance choice can be thousands of rupees on every transfer — so it's worth understanding. Here's a practical, honest guide.
The one rule: compare what India actually receives
Providers advertise "low fees," but the fee is only half the story. The exchange rate they give you matters just as much — a low fee with a poor rate can cost you more than a higher fee with a fair rate. Always compare the final amount received in ₹ for the same amount sent, not the headline fee.
Your main options
- Online remittance services — apps and websites built for international transfers (for example Wise, Remitly, and Japan-based remittance apps). Often the best rates and lowest total cost, with money arriving in hours to a couple of days.
- Banks — your Japanese bank can wire money, but bank transfers often have higher fees and poorer rates than dedicated services.
- Japan Post Bank / other services — additional options worth comparing.
We don't earn anything from any provider and don't rank them — compare a couple for your specific amount and see who delivers the most rupees.
What you'll need to send money
- A Japanese bank account (or a funded remittance-app account).
- Identity documents and usually your My Number and residence card for registration.
- The recipient's Indian bank details (account number, IFSC).
Tips to keep more of your money
- Compare total received across two or three providers before each transfer.
- Send larger amounts less often — fixed fees hurt small, frequent transfers.
- Watch the exchange rate — timing can matter if the yen–rupee rate is moving.
- Avoid informal "hawala"-style channels — they're risky, sometimes illegal, and offer no protection if something goes wrong.
- Keep records for tax and proof.
Plan it into your budget
Remittance is part of your money plan, not an afterthought. Pair this with your real take-home pay and cost of living so you know how much you can comfortably send home each month. This is general information, not financial advice — compare current rates and terms yourself before sending.