GuidePayments

How long does payment transfer take?

Expected transfer times for the most common payment methods and what to do if yours is delayed.

N

Nina Patel

Head of Compliance

September 22, 2024
3 min read
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Transfer times vary significantly by payment method. Plan accordingly and always check before opening a trade with a tight timer.

Instant / near-instant (under 5 minutes): Revolut, Wise (same-currency), Cash App, Zelle, PayPal (peer-to-peer), UPI (India), GCash.

Same-day (1–4 hours): SEPA Instant, Faster Payments (UK), most domestic bank transfers during business hours.

Next-day (1–2 business days): Standard SEPA, most national bank wires.

Slower (2–5 business days): International SWIFT transfers, some rural bank systems in developing countries.

Once you have sent payment, inform the seller immediately via the in-trade chat and upload your payment proof. Do not wait until the seller asks — prompt communication is the biggest factor in smooth trades.

If your transfer is taking longer than expected, send the seller your transaction ID or reference number so they can check on their end. Most sellers are understanding about bank delays if you communicate proactively.

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