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.