Revolut vs Ria: Complete Fee Comparison 2025

Which service is cheaper for international transfers? Here's the bottom line:

• Revolut is better for frequent users and those sending larger amounts. It offers competitive exchange rates (mid-market on weekdays), free user-to-user transfers, and reduced fees on Premium/Metal plans. However, fees increase for transfers outside market hours or exceeding monthly limits.
• Ria works best for occasional senders or those needing cash pickups. It has lower upfront fees ($0.99–$9) but includes exchange rate markups that vary by destination and currency.

Key Takeaways

• Revolut charges up to 5% or $10 (whichever is higher) for transfers, plus a 0.5% currency exchange fee after $1,000/month (Standard plan).
• Ria’s fees depend on the payment method and destination but are generally lower upfront. However, exchange rate markups lack transparency.
• Revolut’s weekday transfers use mid-market rates, while Ria includes hidden markups in its rates.

Quick Comparison

Who should choose what?

• Use Revolut if you send money often, prefer predictable fees, or need better exchange rates.
• Go with Ria for occasional cash pickups or if avoiding subscriptions is a priority.

Pro Tip: Always check the total cost (fees + exchange rates) before confirming a transfer. Hidden costs can add up, especially with Ria’s markups.

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How Fees Work

When it comes to international transfers, both Revolut and Ria charge fees, but they calculate these costs differently. These variations can have a big impact on how much you end up paying.

Transaction Fee Details

Revolut's Fee Structure

Revolut uses a two-tiered system for international transfers. For transfers to non-Revolut accounts, you'll pay either up to 5% of the transaction amount or a fixed fee of up to $10.00, whichever is higher. On top of this, Standard plan users face a 0.5% fair usage fee for currency exchanges exceeding $1,000 per month, and an additional 1.0% fee applies for transactions outside of foreign exchange market hours (5:00 PM Friday to 6:00 PM Sunday Eastern Time). Domestic wire transfers within the U.S. cost a flat $10.00 per transaction.

One perk Revolut offers is that transfers between Revolut users are completely free. Subscribers to Premium and Metal plans also enjoy discounts on international transfer fees.

Ria's Fee Structure

Ria's fees depend on several factors, including where you're sending money from, your payment method (bank transfer, debit card, or cash), the transfer amount, and the recipient's location. Fees typically range from $0.99 to $9.00. Unlike Revolut, Ria doesn't provide free transfers between its users.

For first-time users, Ria offers a promotional code, "HELLORIA", which waives fees on the initial transfer. However, this is a one-time benefit and doesn't reduce ongoing costs.

Payment Method Impact

The way you fund your transfer can also affect fees. Revolut charges the same fees regardless of whether you pay via bank transfer or debit card. Ria, on the other hand, adjusts its fees based on the payment method, with cash payments often having different rates compared to bank transfers or card payments.

These differences in fees and payment methods can also affect transfer limits and the overall cost, as outlined below.

Transfer Limits and Restrictions

Ria has some of the lowest transfer limits in the industry. You can send a maximum of $2,999.99 per day and up to $7,999.00 over 30 days. These limits may require frequent senders to split large amounts into multiple transactions, which can increase overall fees.

Revolut, on the other hand, does not specify transfer limits for international payments. However, certain services, like U.S. domestic wires, do have their own restrictions.

Fee Comparison Table

Here’s a quick comparison of key fees between Revolut and Ria:

Both providers may encounter intermediary bank fees, which can reduce the amount your recipient ultimately receives. Revolut offers an option to "Pay All Transfer Fees" upfront, covering these potential deductions, while Ria doesn’t provide a similar feature.

One major distinction is how fees are presented. Revolut provides exact fee details before you confirm a transfer, giving you clarity on costs. Ria’s variable pricing and exchange rate markups, however, can make it harder to estimate the total cost upfront. This lack of transparency can lead to surprises, especially for those who send money internationally on a regular basis.

Exchange Rates and Markups

Exchange rates play a crucial role in determining the value of your money transfer. But what many don’t realize is how exchange rate markups can significantly increase costs. Understanding these markups is just as important as knowing the transaction fees when evaluating total transfer expenses.

How Exchange Rates Are Set

Revolut's Exchange Rate System

Revolut calculates its exchange rates using data from multiple independent sources. On weekdays, it matches the mid-market rate, but on weekends, it applies a 1% markup to account for market risks. The app ensures transparency by showing the exchange rate, any fees, and the total cost before you finalize a transfer.

Ria's Exchange Rate Approach

Ria uses the mid-market rate as a reference point but includes a markup in the final rate, which is only displayed at the time of transfer. Their terms and conditions explain this process:

"If you instruct us to pay out a money transfer to a recipient in a currency ('payout currency') other than United States Dollars ('USD'), a retail exchange rate may be applied, in addition to any service charge appearing on the face of your receipt [...]. The difference between the retail exchange rate applied to such money transfer transaction and the wholesale exchange rate at which we acquired the payout currency will be kept by us and/or the paying agent as revenue, in addition to any service charges".

This confirms that Ria includes a markup as part of its revenue. The difference in how Revolut and Ria handle transparency sets the stage for a closer comparison of their markups.

Exchange Rate Markup Comparison

The size of these markups can make a noticeable difference, especially when transferring large amounts or dealing with less commonly traded currencies.

Revolut's Markup Structure

Revolut’s markup depends on the day and your subscription plan. On weekdays, no markup is applied since the mid-market rate is used.

Ria's Variable Markups

Ria’s markups are less predictable, varying by currency pair. For instance, popular pairs like USD to Mexican Peso may have better rates, while less common pairs see higher markups. However, Ria doesn’t publish specific percentages upfront, making it harder to predict total costs.

Here’s a comparison of the known markups:

Real-World Impact on Transfer Costs

Let’s break this down with an example. Suppose you’re sending USD 5,000 to the UK at a mid-market rate of 1 USD = 0.80 GBP:

• Revolut (Weekdays): The recipient would receive approximately £4,000 (no markup).
• Revolut (Weekends): The recipient would get about £3,960, reflecting a 1% markup (roughly $40 less).
• Ria (assuming a 2% markup): The recipient might receive around £3,920.

Currency Pair Considerations

For smaller transfers involving widely used currencies, Revolut generally offers competitive rates during weekdays. Major currency pairs like USD to EUR, GBP, or CAD often benefit from these favorable rates. On the other hand, Ria’s markups vary by currency pair, with less liquid currencies typically incurring higher costs. This variability makes Ria’s pricing less predictable.

The main takeaway here is predictability. Revolut clearly outlines when and how much markups will cost, while Ria integrates its markup into the exchange rate, leaving you to discover the full cost only when initiating the transfer. Even minor differences - like a 2% markup on a $10,000 transfer - can add up significantly over time.

Now that we’ve covered markups, let’s take a closer look at additional fees and costs that might affect your overall transfer expenses in the next section.

Extra Costs and Fees

When evaluating cross-border transfers in the U.S., it's important to factor in additional costs that might not be immediately obvious. Beyond standard fees and exchange rate markups, these extra charges can influence the overall expense, especially in specific scenarios or when using certain features.

Receiving and Delivery Fees

Revolut's Card and Transfer Expenses

Getting a Revolut card comes with upfront costs. A new or replacement card is $4.99, and delivery charges vary based on speed - faster delivery options are more expensive.

Adding money to your Revolut account via a U.S. bank transfer is free, but credit card funding can incur fees of up to 3%. Domestic debit card transactions can cost up to 1%, and for debit cards issued outside the U.S., the fee can also reach 3%. If you receive funds through a U.S. domestic wire transfer, there's a $10 fee per transaction.

International Transfer Challenges

For international transfers into a Revolut account, intermediary bank fees - ranging from $15 to $50 - can reduce the amount received.

Ria's Receiving Fee Variations

Ria's fees depend on how the recipient gets the money. For domestic transfers within the U.S., cash pickups generally cost more than direct bank deposits. For example, Ria charges $3 for transfers under $100 and $5 for transfers above that amount. International transfer fees vary widely based on factors like the destination, payment method, and delivery speed.

Beyond receiving and delivery charges, there are other hidden costs to consider.

Other Charges to Know

Revolut's Less Obvious Fees

Revolut has some charges that aren't immediately apparent. For example, out-of-network ATM withdrawals can cost up to 2%. Currency exchanges made outside foreign exchange market hours - defined as 5:00 PM Friday to 6:00 PM Sunday Eastern Time - carry a 1.0% fee. Standard plan users may also face a 0.5% fee on currency conversions exceeding $1,000 per month. Additionally, if you receive funds in a currency not supported by Revolut, the sender's bank may convert it using their own exchange rate, often with a markup that increases the cost.

Ria's Exchange Rate Disclosure

Ria provides mid-market exchange rates on its website for reference, but the actual sending rates are only revealed after you log in to complete a transfer. This lack of upfront transparency can make it harder to estimate the total cost until you're deep into the process.

Accounting for Total Costs

These additional fees can add up quickly. For instance, funding a $5,000 transfer with a credit card through Revolut might result in an extra $150 in fees. Similarly, intermediary bank fees on an international wire transfer could reduce a $3,000 transfer by $25 to $50.

Being aware of these extra costs can help you make better decisions about which service aligns with your transfer needs and budget.

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Service Plans and Features

This section builds on the earlier discussion about fee structures, focusing on how service tiers influence the overall value of money transfer services. Understanding the available plans can help you choose the best option based on your transfer habits and needs.

Plan Options Compared

Revolut's Tiered Plans

Revolut offers three plans for U.S. customers: Standard, Premium, and Metal.

• Standard Plan: This plan is free and includes basic transfer features with a $1,000 monthly limit for no-fee currency exchanges. It's a solid choice for those who transfer money occasionally.
• Premium Plan: Priced at $9.99 per month, this plan increases the no-fee currency exchange limit to $10,000 and offers a 40% discount on international transfer fees. Premium users also get priority customer support, express card delivery, free card customization, and access to disposable virtual cards for secure online transactions.
• Metal Plan: At $16.99 per month, the Metal plan removes all currency exchange limits. Subscribers enjoy unlimited no-fee exchanges, the same 40% discount on international transfers, a sleek stainless steel card, and subscriptions to five partner services.

Ria's Single-Tier Model

Unlike Revolut, Ria keeps things simple with a pay-per-use model. Ria charges fees based on factors like transfer amount, destination, and payment method, without requiring a monthly subscription. This straightforward approach means you only pay when you use the service, making it ideal for occasional transfers.

Key Differences in Value

Revolut's tiered plans are well-suited for frequent users. For instance, if you regularly exchange more than $1,000 per month, the Premium plan's 40% discount on international transfer fees can make up for its $9.99 monthly cost. For example, if you typically spend $50 on transfer fees monthly, the discount saves you $20, which nearly covers the subscription fee. On the other hand, Ria’s pay-per-transaction model is perfect for those who transfer money less often and want to avoid recurring charges.

Features and Benefits Table

Cost Considerations

For users exchanging around $5,000 monthly, the Premium plan’s 40% discount can almost cover its $9.99 fee. The Metal plan is best for those handling high-volume exchanges, offering unlimited no-fee currency exchanges and additional perks.

Meanwhile, Ria’s single-tier structure is better for occasional users who want transparent, per-transaction pricing without monthly fees. With Ria, you only pay for the transfers you make, avoiding ongoing costs.

These distinctions provide a clearer picture of how service plans align with different user needs, setting up the next discussion on transfer options and support for U.S. customers.

What US Customers Need to Know

This section dives into practical details for US users, focusing on payment options, transfer speeds, limits, and customer support. Each provider offers distinct features that cater to different needs.

Payment and Receiving Options

Revolut gives US users several ways to fund transfers, including bank transfers, Revolut-to-Revolut transfers, payment links, and group payments. Among these, bank transfers are usually the most economical, especially for Premium and Metal subscribers who enjoy reduced fees. Transfers between Revolut users are completely free.

Ria provides a variety of options for sending money: online, through its mobile app, or in person. For receiving funds, Ria offers flexibility with cash pickup, bank deposits, digital wallets, home delivery in select areas, and even ATM withdrawals in some countries. The cash pickup option is especially helpful in regions where banking infrastructure is limited, backed by Ria's extensive network of over 600,000 locations worldwide. These options lay the groundwork for understanding how speed and limits affect your transactions.

Speed and Transfer Limits

Revolut-to-Revolut transfers are impressively fast, often completing within about 20 seconds. For transfers requiring traditional bank processing, the time frame typically ranges from one to two days, though it can extend up to five days depending on the receiving bank's policies. Revolut allows US users to send up to $50,000 per domestic wire transfer and up to $175,000 per domestic ACH transfer.

Ria shines when it comes to cash pickups, with many transactions processed within minutes. However, its transfer limits vary depending on the funding method: cash-funded transfers are capped at $495, while other methods allow up to $14,999.99 over a 30-day period. Online transfers, meanwhile, are limited to $2,999.99 per day or $7,999 every 30 days.

Both platforms require identity verification, typically involving a government-issued ID and proof of address, to increase transfer limits. This Know Your Customer (KYC) process ensures compliance with financial regulations and helps protect against fraud.

While speed and limits are critical, customer support availability can significantly influence the overall experience.

Customer Support Hours

Revolut provides standard customer support for free users, but Premium and Metal subscribers enjoy priority service with faster responses and dedicated assistance. On the other hand, Ria offers consistent support for all users, with additional in-person help available through its partnership with Walmart at over 4,500 locations across the US, including Puerto Rico. Ria also collaborates with Google to enhance its digital support options.

Revolut’s tiered support system contrasts with Ria’s uniform approach, where partnerships with Walmart and Google add extra layers of convenience for users.

Final Comparison Results

An in-depth look at fee structures, exchange rates, and features highlights notable cost differences depending on transfer needs.

Cost Comparison Summary

Revolut's pricing model varies by subscription tier. Standard users face transfer fees of up to 5% on amounts over $200, along with an extra 0.5% currency conversion fee once they exceed the $1,000 monthly limit. Premium subscribers ($9.99/month) benefit from reduced transfer fees and a higher no-fee conversion cap, while Metal users ($16.99/month) enjoy a 40% discount on transfers and unlimited free currency conversion.

Ria's fees are determined by the destination and payment method. For example, transfers to Mexico may have no fees, but sending money to Canada, India, Australia, or the United Kingdom often includes fixed fees plus exchange rate markups. Additionally, Ria's exchange rates include a markup, which can increase the overall cost.

For business users, Revolut's Scale plan offers specific allowances and lower fees, while Ria maintains a steady fee structure. Revolut also supports free transfers between its users, whereas Ria applies fees to all transactions.

These differences make it easier to identify which platform aligns better with your transfer habits.

Which Service to Choose

Deciding between Revolut and Ria depends on your transfer frequency and recipient needs.

Pick Revolut if you frequently send money internationally and value competitive rates. The Metal plan is especially cost-effective for those exchanging over $1,000 per month, thanks to its unlimited free currency conversion. Businesses with high transfer volumes can benefit from the Scale plan's tailored allowances. Revolut is ideal for users who manage transactions through a mobile app and don't need cash pickup services.

Choose Ria for cash pickup needs or if you prefer avoiding subscription fees. With a network spanning over 140 countries, Ria is well-suited for cash-based transactions. It's also a good option for occasional senders, particularly when transferring to countries like Mexico, where some transactions may have no upfront fees.

For small transfers under $200, Revolut Standard users could see fees of up to $10, while Ria's charges vary by destination and are often lower. For larger transfers exceeding $1,000, Revolut Premium or Metal subscribers generally achieve better rates due to reduced fees and favorable exchange rates during market hours.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to how often you transfer money, where you're sending it, and whether recipients need cash pickup or can use bank accounts. Revolut rewards frequent users with tiered benefits, while Ria provides a straightforward fee model suited for occasional or cash-based transactions.

FAQs

How do exchange rate markups from Revolut and Ria impact the overall cost of international transfers?

Exchange rate markups play a big role in determining how much it costs to send money internationally. Revolut usually sticks close to the interbank rate, adding a small markup of about 0.4% after any free allowance. Depending on your subscription plan, you might also face extra fees ranging from 0.5% to 1% for certain transactions.

Ria, on the other hand, builds a higher markup - often around 2% - directly into its exchange rates. This can make transfers significantly more expensive, particularly for larger amounts.

Overall, Revolut often offers better rates, especially for smaller transfers or users on specific plans. Meanwhile, Ria's higher markups can lead to higher costs for senders.

How do Revolut's subscription plans compare to Ria's pay-per-use model in terms of transfer costs?

Revolut provides subscription plans like Standard, Premium, and Metal, each with fixed monthly or annual fees. These plans often come with perks, such as waived fees on specific transfers and other extras. This structure can help users manage costs more predictably and may be a good fit for those who frequently make international transfers.

Ria, on the other hand, operates on a pay-per-use model. Fees are charged per transaction and include variable exchange rates and transfer fees. This approach might appeal to users who send money occasionally or in smaller amounts. However, for those making larger or more frequent transfers, the costs can add up quickly.

To sum it up, Revolut's subscription plans suit regular users looking for consistent and manageable costs, while Ria's pay-per-use model is better for individuals who transfer money less often or in smaller sums.

What are the benefits of using Revolut over Ria for frequent international money transfers, especially when it comes to fees and features?

Revolut stands out as a handy option for frequent international money transfers, offering both affordability and ease of use. If you opt for one of the higher-tier plans, you can benefit from generous allowances for no-fee transfers, which can help keep your transaction costs low. Plus, with support for quick transfers in over 25 currencies and no added fees, you avoid those pesky hidden charges.

The platform also offers features like multi-currency accounts and the ability to set up direct deposits, giving you the flexibility to handle cross-border payments efficiently. These features make Revolut a smart pick for anyone looking for a straightforward, cost-conscious way to send money internationally on a regular basis.

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