10 Best Ways to Send Money: Singapore to China (2026 Guide)

Why "Best for Frequent Transfers" Matters for Work & Freelance

For Singapore-based professionals, freelancers, and expatriates sending income to China, the criteria for selecting a remittance provider differ from one-off senders. In 2026, the focus has shifted toward recurring transfer stability and compliance documentation.

Frequent transfers for salary or freelance income require providers that support high transaction limits and seamless integration with Chinese receiving methods like UnionPay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay. Furthermore, strict adherence to the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) regulations in China is critical to prevent frozen funds. Services optimized for "frequent transfers" often provide better cumulative exchange rates and automated proof-of-income features.

Comparison: Top Providers for SGD to CNY Transfers

Analysis of Top Money Transfer Services (2026)

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit continues to be a dominant player for the Singapore to China corridor. As a specialist in Asian remittance markets, it offers a digital-first experience tailored for Chinese nationals and expatriates. The platform is fully regulated and maintains official partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay, ensuring that funds are deposited directly into the recipient's preferred digital wallet or UnionPay card.

Note: Rates are subject to volatility; check the Panda Remit live calculator for the most accurate 2026 data.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a benchmark for transparency, utilizing the mid-market exchange rate without hidden markups. For freelancers in Singapore invoicing clients in China or sending savings home, Wise provides a clear breakdown of fees upfront. It is regulated by MAS in Singapore.

3. Western Union

While often more expensive regarding exchange rate margins, Western Union is essential for recipients in rural China who require physical cash pickup. Their extensive agent network remains unmatched for non-digital transfers.

4. Remitly

Remitly offers a dual-speed model: "Express" for urgent transfers (higher fee) and "Economy" for non-urgent transfers (lower fee). This flexibility suits freelance workers who may not always need instant settlement.

5. Traditional Banks (DBS, OCBC, UOB)

Singapore's major banks are highly secure but typically utilize the SWIFT network for transfers to China. This often results in higher intermediary fees and slower processing times compared to fintech alternatives, though they are preferred for very large sums (e.g., property down payments).

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice: Corridor Analysis

Panda Remit is particularly optimized for intra-Asia flows. While this guide focuses on Singapore (SGD), Panda Remit's infrastructure is robust across other key corridors, such as JPY to CNY.

For example, in the JPY to CNY corridor, Panda Remit often provides competitive transparency regarding the "landing rate" (the final amount received). This efficiency stems from their direct clearing channels with Chinese payment networks. For users in Singapore who may also manage funds in other Asian currencies, this cross-corridor capability demonstrates the platform's deep integration with the Chinese banking system via UnionPay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay partnerships.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money to China requires navigating two primary regulatory environments:

• Singapore (MAS): All legitimate remittance providers must be licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore as Major Payment Institutions. This ensures safeguarding of funds.
• China (SAFE): The State Administration of Foreign Exchange enforces an annual settlement quota of USD 50,000 equivalent for Chinese nationals. Transfers exceeding this limit may require additional documentation, such as proof of income or tax records.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

When comparing the "10 best" options, users must look beyond the advertised fee:

• Exchange Rate Margins: Many providers claim "zero fees" but add a 1–3% markup to the exchange rate.
• Intermediary Bank Fees: SWIFT transfers via banks often incur unexpected deductions ($20–$50) by third-party banks during transit.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Avoid allowing the receiving bank to convert the currency; always lock the rate with the sending provider.

FAQs: Sending Money to China

Is it safe to send 1,000,000 JPY to China via Panda Remit?

Yes, provided the service is regulated in the sending country (e.g., by the Local Finance Bureau in Japan for JPY transfers). For large amounts, Panda Remit and similar providers require identity verification (KYC) and may request source-of-funds documentation to comply with anti-money laundering laws.

How do I send money to Alipay from Singapore?

To send to Alipay, choose a provider like Panda Remit, Wise, or Remitly that supports Alipay as a delivery method. You will need the recipient's Alipay ID (usually their phone number) and their full legal name in Chinese characters.

What is the maximum amount I can send to China in 2026?

While Singapore does not impose strict capital outflow limits on individuals, China imposes a USD 50,000 annual foreign exchange settlement quota per citizen. Transfers sent directly to Alipay or WeChat Pay often have lower per-transaction limits (e.g., CNY 50,000) compared to bank transfers.

Does the recipient in China pay taxes on personal transfers?

Generally, personal remittances from family or savings are not taxed as income in China. However, if the transfer is payment for freelance work or services, it constitutes taxable income, and the recipient may need to declare it.

Why was my transfer to China rejected?

Common reasons for rejection include exceeding the recipient's annual SAFE quota, incorrect name matching (ensure the name matches the Chinese ID exactly), or lack of required purpose-of-payment documentation.