In 2023, the value of migrant remittances transferred from the United States to other countries amounted to **** billion U.S. dollars. This makes the United States the country worldwide with the highest amount of migrant remittance outflows in that year.

Money transfers to other countries outside the United States were nearly ** times higher in 2021 than money received. Remittances refer to cross-border payments to family or friends and are often associated with migrant workers sending money back home to friends or relatives back in their communities of origin. It is estimated that about *** in ***** people worldwide are involved with remittances - substantially impacting payment behavior in, especially, Asia and Latin America. For the United States, the top five recipient countries for remittances in 2021 included Mexico, India, Guatemala, the Philippines, and China. The five main sources for remittances in the U.S. were Mexico, Canada, the UK, Puerto Rico, and Germany.

Remittance Market Outlook

The global remittance market size was valued at USD 701.93 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1.08 trillion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9% from 2024 to 2032. The growth of this market is driven by increasing migration trends, technological advancements, and rising demand for convenient and cost-effective money transfer services. The expansion of digital platforms and mobile wallets has significantly contributed to the ease and speed of cross-border money transfers, providing a robust foundation for market growth.

A significant growth factor contributing to the expansion of the remittance market is the increasing global migration rates. Economic disparities and the pursuit of better employment opportunities have led to a rise in the number of people moving to different countries. These migrants often send money back to their home countries to support their families, driving the demand for remittance services. Additionally, humanitarian reasons and international aid are playing essential roles in boosting remittance flows to regions in need.

Technological advancements have been another critical driver of growth in the remittance market. The advent of digital payment platforms and fintech innovations has revolutionized the way money is transferred across borders. These technological solutions offer faster, cheaper, and more secure transaction methods compared to traditional banking systems. Fintech companies are leveraging blockchain technology to enhance transparency and reduce transfer time, further propelling market growth. The increased penetration of smartphones and internet connectivity also aids in the widespread adoption of digital remittance services.

The rising demand for convenient and cost-effective money transfer services has prompted both traditional and non-traditional financial institutions to enhance their offerings. Money Transfer Operators (MTOs), banks, and online platforms are continuously improving their services to cater to the evolving needs of customers. Competitive pricing, reduced transfer fees, and additional services such as currency exchange and bill payments are attracting more users to formal remittance channels. This trend is particularly evident in developing economies where access to financial services was previously limited.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific holds the largest share in the global remittance market, driven by high migration rates and substantial volumes of inward remittances, particularly in countries like India, China, and the Philippines. North America and Europe also represent significant markets due to their large immigrant populations and established financial infrastructures. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging regions with growing remittance flows, fueled by economic growth and increasing outbound migration.

Type Analysis

The remittance market can be segmented into inward remittance and outward remittance. Inward remittance refers to money sent by expatriates to their home country, while outward remittance involves funds sent from a home country to other countries. Inward remittances constitute a major portion of the market due to the high number of migrant workers sending money back to support their families. This segment is particularly crucial for developing economies where remittances play a significant role in boosting household incomes and economic growth.

Outward remittance, although smaller in comparison to inward remittance, is also growing steadily. This segment is driven by factors such as international tuition fees, payments for overseas purchases, and investments in foreign properties. The increasing number of people traveling abroad for education and business purposes has led to a rise in outward remittance transactions. Additionally, with globalization and international trade on the rise, businesses are also contributing to outward remittance flows.

The inward remittance segment is expected to continue its dominance over the forecast period, supported by the growing migrant population and the necessity to support families back home. Government policies in various countries that encourage the inflow of remittances, such as reduced transaction fees and favorable exchange rates, are also bolstering this segment. Furthermore, international organizations and financial institutions are working towards making inward remittance processes more efficient, secure, and cost-effective.

The outward remittance segment, while s

A large majority of all remittances sent towards North America went towards Mexico as of 2021, likely due to the remittances sent from the United States. This is according to a database that tries to model money sent internationally from one party to another. Remittances typically refer to money sent from migrant workers back home to family and friends, although there are other forms of this. Remittances can, for example, include pensioners who have a second home in foreign country. The United States was Mexico's largest source of remittances in 2021, with more than ** billion U.S. dollars originating from that country.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Digital Remitances market size will be USD XX million in 2025. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2025 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031.


Europe accounted for a market share of over XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031.


Asia Pacific held a market share of around XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031.


Latin America had a market share of more than XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031.


Middle East and Africa had a market share of around XX% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD XX million in 2025 and will grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2031.

Market Drivers

The rising immigrant population and global brain drain are fueling the digital remittance market

The accelerating global movement of people—particularly from low- and middle-income nations to more developed economies—is a powerful force driving the digital remittance market. Migration today is not just about labor mobility; it's about financial connectivity. As skilled, semi-skilled, and even unskilled individuals relocate for better economic prospects, they become central agents in a transnational flow of capital—remittances—which are increasingly being digitized.

As of 2023, the international migrant population surpassed 280 million, representing over 3.5% of the world’s population (U.S. Census Bureau). Many of these migrants, including doctors, nurses, engineers, construction workers, and caregivers, contribute significantly to the labor markets in host countries while simultaneously supporting their families back home. This two-way economic impact—bolstering host economies while providing critical income to home countries—is increasingly mediated through digital remittance platforms. These figures underscore the fact that migrant workers are effectively one of the largest sources of foreign income for many nations, often surpassing both foreign aid and direct investment.

A growing share of these migrants are highly educated professionals, part of a broader trend known as "brain drain." Countries across South Asia, West Africa, and Eastern Europe are witnessing an outflow of talent, particularly in sectors like medicine, IT, and academia. While this raises challenges for the home country’s workforce development, it simultaneously boosts remittance flows as these skilled professionals tend to earn higher wages and remit more funds.

For instance,

The United Kingdom and Canada have both seen a surge in foreign-trained nurses and doctors, particularly from Nigeria, India, and the Philippines—countries that, in turn, have experienced an increase in remittance volumes. [ICN Report] 

These remittances play a vital role in supporting families and strengthening local economies, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global migration and economic stability. In Nigeria, authorities are targeting $1 billion in monthly remittance inflows, part of a broader initiative to tap diaspora capital through innovations such as a U.S. dollar-denominated diaspora bond and improved digital transfer frameworks (MSME Africa Online)

Immigration policy shifts in key remittance-sending countries like the U.S., Canada, Germany, and Gulf States have far-reaching effects on remittance volumes. Latin American economies such as Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador are particularly vulnerable to U.S. immigration changes. These three countries alone received $35 billion in remittances in 2023, primarily from migrants working in the United States. A recent report notes that U.S. election outcomes could significantly alter remittance flows, as immigration and deportation policies shape who can stay and work legally—and thus, continue to remit money (https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2023/12/18/remittance-flows-grow-2023-slower-pace-migration-development-brief).

The rising global migrant workforce—fueled b...

Mexico accounted for more less than *** percent of all remittances sent from North America to other countries in the world in 2021. Remittances from these four countries ranged from *** billion U.S. dollars to *** billion U.S. dollars. Remittances refer to cross-border payments to family or friends and are often associated with migrant workers sending money back home to friends or relatives back in their communities of origin. It is estimated that about *** in ***** people worldwide are involved with remittances - substantially impacting payment behavior in, especially, Asia and Latin America. The outflow from North America is especially aimed at North America itself - likely from the United States to Mexico - but also towards Asia.

The value of remittances to India outweighed the value sent to other countries about ** times in 2021, according to a ranking that maps the flow of such money transfers. Remittances refer to cross-border payments to family or friends and are often associated with migrant workers sending money back home to friends or relatives back in their communities of origin. It is estimated that about *** in seven people worldwide are involved with remittances - substantially impacting payment behavior in, especially, Asia and Latin America. For India, the top five recipient countries for remittances in 2021 included Bangladesh, Nepal, China, Sri Lanka, and the United States. India's main sources for remittances were the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait.

Snapshot img

Remittance Market Size 2024-2028

The remittance market size is forecast to increase by USD 57 bn at a CAGR of 13.54% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by technological advancements and government initiatives to promote digital payments. Keywords such as payments, wallets, and software are transforming the industry through FinTech innovations. The integration of blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, big data, and R analytics is revolutionizing the remittance landscape. Digital remittance solutions are increasingly popular, offering convenience, speed, and cost savings. However, challenges persist, including security concerns, regulatory compliance, and the need for financial education to ensure users fully understand the benefits and risks of digital remittances. As the market continues to evolve, staying informed about these trends and challenges is essential for businesses and individuals alike.

What will be the Size of the Remittance Market During the Forecast Period?

Request Free SampleThe market encompasses money transfers initiated by migratory workers and individuals seeking to send funds across borders. This market is characterized by a significant volume of cross border transactions, facilitated through digital transfer platforms and online transactions. Electronic devices, including mobile phones, have become increasingly important tools for executing these transactions, leading to the growth of digital remittance services. Financial security and anonymity are key considerations for users, who often incur extra fees and navigate complex paperwork to complete transactions. Regulators play a crucial role In the digital remittance business, implementing regulations to mitigate risks such as money laundering and terrorism funding.Despite these challenges, the market continues to expand, driven by the increasing popularity of digital payments and the need for convenient, cost-effective cross border payments. Money transfer costs remain a significant concern for users, with fees varying widely among different providers. Lack of knowledge and security barriers can also hinder adoption, necessitating education and innovation to address these concerns.

How is this Remittance Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The remittance industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. MethodNon-digitalDigitalTypeInwardOutwardGeographyNorth AmericaUSEuropeUKAPACMiddle East and AfricaSouth America

By Method Insights

The non-digital segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The non-digital segment dominates The market, accounting for the largest revenue share in 2023. Traditional methods such as Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and cheques offer accessibility to senders and recipients, flexible remittance channels, and fund accessibility to recipients. The sense of security experienced through offline transactions is a significant factor contributing to the growth of this segment. Prior to the emergence of digital channels, non-digital methods were the only means for international remittances. Key advantages of non-digital remittance include ease of use, convenience, and the absence of digital barriers for international residents. These factors are expected to drive the growth of the non-digital segment In the market during the forecast period.Cross-border transactions continue to be a crucial aspect of the international economy, with migratory workers playing a significant role in driving remittance volumes. Regulators play a crucial role in ensuring financial security and preventing money laundering and terrorism funding through digital remittance services. Digital payment solutions, including mobile wallets and blockchain technology, are gaining popularity but still trail behind non-digital methods in terms of market share.

Get a glance at the market report of various segments Request Free Sample

The Non-digital segment was valued at USD 34.00 bn in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 31% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

For more insights on the market size of various regions, Request Free Sample

The digital the market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing number of migratory workers requiring cross-border transactions. Digital transfer platforms and online transactions have become increasingly popular, facilitated by the widespread use of electronic devices. Cross-border

Remittances between the United States and Mexico were over twice as large in value as the second-biggest corridor, which was in Asia. This is according to a Statista ranking, using a table that tried to map out migrant remittance flows between individual countries. Multiple countries across the world received remittances worth more than three percent of their GDP in 2022. That said, it should be stressed that remittance figures are not without their flaws. First, the numbers shown here are based on migrant stock. This is a difficult topic to track for certain countries, but also potentially excludes other types of remittances - such as pensions or illegal remittances. Two, the figures essentially assume that every migrant will send the difference of per capita income in PPP terms back home to the country of origin. The source acknowledges this is a rough proxy, potentially leading to over- or undervaluing any estimates.

Digital Remittance Market Outlook

The global digital remittance market size in 2023 is estimated to be approximately USD 20.5 billion and is projected to reach USD 43.9 billion by 2032, growing at a remarkable CAGR of 8.7%. The market is driven by factors such as increased mobile phone penetration, advancements in financial technology, and the growing need for efficient and cost-effective international money transfer services. The robust growth rate underscores the rising adoption of digital remittance solutions across various regions, addressing the needs of diverse user groups.

One of the primary growth factors for the digital remittance market is the increasing penetration of smartphones and internet connectivity, especially in developing countries. As mobile phones become more accessible, individuals can easily access digital remittance services, allowing for quicker and more reliable transactions. This technological shift is particularly beneficial in regions with limited access to traditional banking infrastructure, bridging the financial inclusion gap and enabling users to transfer money across borders seamlessly.

Another significant driver of market growth is the rising number of international migrants who rely on remittances to support their families back home. Factors such as better employment opportunities, political instability, and economic disparities are contributing to the increasing migration rates. Digital remittance services offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional money transfer methods, providing a faster, safer, and more transparent way for migrants to send money to their loved ones. Additionally, the reduction in transaction fees associated with digital remittances compared to traditional methods further encourages the adoption of these services.

Moreover, the continuous advancements in fintech and the integration of blockchain technology are revolutionizing the digital remittance market. Blockchain technology ensures secure, transparent, and immutable transactions, significantly reducing the risk of fraud and enhancing the overall reliability of remittance services. Fintech innovations are also driving down the cost of remittance services, making them more accessible to a broader audience. The collaboration between financial institutions and fintech companies is fostering an ecosystem that promotes efficiency and user convenience.

The regional outlook for the digital remittance market reveals significant growth potential in Asia Pacific, North America, and Europe. Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the market due to its large migrant population and increasing smartphone penetration. North America and Europe will also witness substantial growth, driven by the high adoption of digital financial services and the presence of a large expatriate community. Additionally, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets showing promising growth opportunities as digital infrastructure continues to improve and financial inclusion initiatives gain traction.

Type Analysis

In the digital remittance market, the type segment is bifurcated into inward and outward digital remittance. Inward digital remittance involves the transfer of money into a country from abroad, typically by expatriates to their families, while outward digital remittance covers the money sent from a country to other nations. Inward remittances form a substantial part of the GDP in many developing countries, providing a critical source of income for millions of households. The growth in this sub-segment is propelled by the increasing number of migrant workers and expatriates who are leveraging digital platforms to send money back home efficiently and at lower costs.

Outward digital remittance, although smaller compared to inward flows, is gaining traction with the rise of globalization and international business engagements. Small businesses and individual entrepreneurs are increasingly using digital remittance services to pay for goods and services across borders. The ease of using digital platforms for outward remittances is also attracting more users to switch from traditional banking methods to digital ones, further driving the growth of this sub-segment. The seamless, instantaneous transactions provided by digital remittance services are essential for maintaining smooth international trade and personal financial management.

The competitive pricing offered by digital remittance platforms is another key factor contributing to the growth of both inward and outward remittances. Traditional remittance

Abstract

The Future of African Remittances (FAR) team conducted research on remittance flows to measure and understand the remittance process in sub-Saharan Africa. This ambitious and important research is initially focused on three countries in East Africa - Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda.

In order to glean insights into the remittance process in the three designated countries, the World Bank designed a two-phase survey process. Phase 1 involved conducting a national survey in each of the three countries. The purpose of the first phase of research was to collect a large representative sample of the adult population in each country. The national surveys provide important baseline data about international remittance flows including: an estimate of the percent of the total adult population that regularly receives remittances, the average amount of each remittance received, most common methods of receipt and top sending countries. Additionally, through the analysis of the national survey results, World Bank was able to identify areas of each country that have high concentrations of international remittance recipients. This important piece of information guided Phase 2 of the research - surveys of remittance receivers in each country. Whereas the national surveys aimed to collect general data about the remittance process, the surveys of remittance recipients allowed for the collection of more detailed data about the remittance process itself, how remittances are used, the relationship between sender and receiver, and interest in various financial products.

The results of this research will not only provide estimates of total annual amounts of remittances for each country, but also will tell us the percentage of the population in each country that is involved in the international remittance process. Furthermore, it will offer insights as to the degree to which Ethiopians, Kenyans and Ugandans depend on international remittances and how the money is used, saved and/or invested. Results will also measure interest in financial products that, if utilized, can significantly impact the financial well-being of the population and the overall economic stability of each country.

Geographic coverage

National Coverage

Analysis unit

Households Individuals

Kind of data

Sample survey data [ssd]

Sampling procedure

General:

The total samples were compiled utilizing multi-stage stratified random sampling through respondent selection. Multi-stage random sampling ensured that a random sample of adults was collected in each country. First, after stratifying the population of each country by region and population density, sampling points (SPs) were determined. SPs were then randomly selected within each stratum. At each SP, respondents were randomly selected to participate in the survey.

Phase 1:

The first phase consisted of national surveys of the adult population of each country. The three survey samples were designed to be representative of the adult populations of these three countries. World Bank coordinated and oversaw all aspects of the sampling and interviewing process. A team of local field experts was hired in each country to conduct the actual interviews. All interviewers were professionally trained and supervised by research personnel. In this phase of the research, a total of 2022 Kenyan adults were interviewed.

Phase 2:

Once the national surveys were completed, the results were analyzed to determine the areas of concentration of the remittance recipient population, after which the second phase of the project was conducted. This phase of the project included a targeted survey of the remittance recipient population of each of the three East African countries. Sampling Points were established based on the analysis of the national survey data and the identification of areas within each country that showed the highest concentrations of remittances received from relatives abroad in proportion to the sample size of all areas surveyed. Once again, local field experts were hired in each country to conduct the interviews, training and supervision of field operations. Languages of interviews were the same as those employed in Phase 1 and, again, all interviews were conducted in person using the PAPI method. A total of 400 interviews with regular international remittance recipients were completed in each country during August and September of 2010. The margin of error for all three surveys is approximately ±5 percentage points and the 95 percent level of confidence.

Detail:

The total sample was compiled utilizing multi-stage stratified random sampling through respondent selection. This sampling method enabled B&A to ensure that a representative random sample of Kenyan adults was collected. There are three stages to this type of sampling methodology. First, after stratifying the Kenyan population by region and population density, sampling points (SPs) were determined. SPs were then randomly selected within each stratum. In the second stage, using the random route method, dwellings were selected within each SP. The random route method involves selecting an address in each SP at random as a starting point. Each interviewer was given instructions to identify additional dwellings by taking alternate left and right turns and stopping at every Nth dwelling. The third and final stage involved selecting actual participants - for each selected dwelling, individual respondents were chosen using a Kish grid. In a Kish grid, prior to beginning the interview, the interviewer first asks for the ages and genders of every household member (only persons aged 18 or older were eligible for selection). The individual to be interviewed was then chosen based on a random number in the grid.

Once the national survey was completed, B&A analyzed the results to determine the areas of concentration of the remittance recipient population, after which the second phase of the project was conducted. This phase included a targeted survey of the remittance recipient population in Kenya. Sampling Points were established based on B&A's analysis of the national survey data and the identification of areas of the country that showed concentrations of international remittance receivers in proportion to the sample size of all areas surveyed. Once again, local field experts were hired to conduct the interviews and B&A conducted all training and supervision of field operations. Interviews were conducted in English or Swahili depending on respondent preference and all interviews were conducted in person using the PAPI method. A total of 401 interviews with regular international remittance recipients were conducted in Kenya during August and September of 2010. The margin of error for the surveys is approximately ±5 percentage points and the 95 percent level of confidence.

Mode of data collection

Face-to-face [f2f]

Research instrument

Phase 1:

This survey consisted of 12 questions that were aimed at helping to identify some of the basic characteristics of the remittance recipient population in each country. Some of the variables included in this survey were - location, age, gender, amount of money received, method of receipt, origin of remittance, etc.

Phase 2:

The survey instrument for Phase 2 consisted of approximately 35 questions and included a number of variables aimed at obtaining greater detail about the remittance receiving process including costs, amounts received, information about the sender and the relationship between sender and receiver. Additionally, the survey measured interest in various financial products.

Response rate

Every effort was made to achieve the maximum possible coverage, taking cost, timing and other factors into account. A coverage rate of 85% was achieved in the national survey and the 15% of the country that was not covered consisted of areas that were either very remote (and difficult to travel to) or that had extremely small populations.

Sampling error estimates

The margin of error is approximately ±5 percentage points and the 95 percent level of confidence.

Abstract

The Future of African Remittances (FAR) team conducted research on remittance flows to measure and understand the remittance process in sub-Saharan Africa. This ambitious and important research is initially focused on three countries in East Africa – Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda.

In order to glean insights into the remittance process in the three designated countries, the World Bank designed a two-phase survey process. Phase 1 involved conducting a national survey in each of the three countries. The purpose of the first phase of research was to collect a large representative sample of the adult population in each country. The national surveys provide important baseline data about international remittance flows including: an estimate of the percent of the total adult population that regularly receives remittances, the average amount of each remittance received, most common methods of receipt and top sending countries. Additionally, through the analysis of the national survey results, World Bank was able to identify areas of each country that have high concentrations of international remittance recipients. This important piece of information guided Phase 2 of the research – surveys of remittance receivers in each country. Whereas the national surveys aimed to collect general data about the remittance process, the surveys of remittance recipients allowed for the collection of more detailed data about the remittance process itself, how remittances are used, the relationship between sender and receiver, and interest in various financial products.

The results of this research will not only provide estimates of total annual amounts of remittances for each country, but also will tell us the percentage of the population in each country that is involved in the international remittance process. Furthermore, it will offer insights as to the degree to which Ethiopians, Kenyans and Ugandans depend on international remittances and how the money is used, saved and/or invested. Results will also measure interest in financial products that, if utilized, can significantly impact the financial well-being of the population and the overall economic stability of each country.

Geographic coverage

National Coverage

Analysis unit

Households Individuals

Universe

The Survey covered the adult population.

Kind of data

Sample survey data [ssd]

Sampling procedure

General:

The total samples were compiled utilizing multi-stage stratified random sampling through respondent selection. Multi-stage random sampling ensured that a random sample of adults was collected in each country. First, after stratifying the population of each country by region and population density, sampling points (SPs) were determined. SPs were then randomly selected within each stratum. At each SP, respondents were randomly selected to participate in the survey.

Phase 1:

The first phase consisted of national surveys of the adult population of each country. The three survey samples were designed to be representative of the adult populations of these three countries. World Bank coordinated and oversaw all aspects of the sampling and interviewing process. A team of local field experts was hired in each country to conduct the actual interviews. All interviewers were professionally trained and supervised by research personnel. In this phase of the research, a total of 2042 Ethiopian adults were interviewed.

Phase 2:

Once the national surveys were completed, the results were analyzed to determine the areas of concentration of the remittance recipient population, after which the second phase of the project was conducted. This phase of the project included a targeted survey of the remittance recipient population of each of the three East African countries. Sampling Points were established based on the analysis of the national survey data and the identification of areas within each country that showed the highest concentrations of remittances received from relatives abroad in proportion to the sample size of all areas surveyed. Once again, local field experts were hired in each country to conduct the interviews, training and supervision of field operations. Languages of interviews were the same as those employed in Phase 1 and, again, all interviews were conducted in person using the PAPI method. A total of 400 interviews with regular international remittance recipients were completed in each country during August and September of 2010. The margin of error for all three surveys is approximately ±5 percentage points and the 95 percent level of confidence.

Detail:

The total sample was compiled utilizing multi-stage stratified random sampling through respondent selection. This sampling method enabled B&A to ensure that a representative random sample of Ethiopian adults was collected. There are three stages to this type of sampling methodology. First, after stratifying the Ethiopian population by region and population density, sampling points (SPs) were determined. SPs were then randomly selected within each stratum. In the second stage, using the random route method, dwellings were selected within each SP. The random route method involves selecting an address in each SP at random as a starting point. Each interviewer was given instructions to identify additional dwellings by taking alternate left and right turns and stopping at every Nth dwelling. The third and final stage involved selecting actual participants - for each selected dwelling, individual respondents were chosen using a Kish grid. In a Kish grid, prior to beginning the interview, the interviewer first asks for the ages and genders of every household member (only persons aged 18 or older were eligible for selection). The individual to be interviewed was then chosen based on a random number in the grid.

Once the national survey was completed, B&A analyzed the results to determine the areas of concentration of the remittance recipient population, after which the second phase of the project was conducted. This phase included a targeted survey of the remittance recipient population in Ethiopia. Sampling Points were established based on B&A's analysis of the national survey data and the identification of areas of the country that showed concentrations of international remittance receivers in proportion to the sample size of all areas surveyed. Once again, local field experts were hired to conduct the interviews and B&A conducted all training and supervision of field operations. Interviews were conducted in Amharic and all interviews were conducted in person using the PAPI method. A total of 410 interviews with regular international remittance recipients were conducted in Ethiopia during August and September of 2010. The margin of error for the surveys is approximately ±5 percentage points and the 95 percent level of confidence.

Mode of data collection

Face-to-face [f2f]

Research instrument

Phase 1:

This survey consisted of 12 questions that were aimed at helping to identify some of the basic characteristics of the remittance recipient population in each country. Some of the variables included in this survey were – location, age, gender, amount of money received, method of receipt, origin of remittance, etc.

Phase 2:

The survey instrument for Phase 2 consisted of approximately 35 questions and included a number of variables aimed at obtaining greater detail about the remittance receiving process including costs, amounts received, information about the sender and the relationship between sender and receiver. Additionally, the survey measured interest in various financial products.

Response rate

Every effort was made to achieve the maximum possible coverage, taking cost, timing and other factors into account. A coverage rate of 97% was achieved in the national survey and the 3% of the country that was not covered consisted of areas that were either very remote (and difficult to travel to) or that had extremely small populations.

Sampling error estimates

The margin of error is approximately ±5 percentage points and the 95 percent level of confidence.

Remittance Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global remittance market size reached USD 830 billion in 2024, reflecting robust growth driven by expanding migrant populations, digitalization, and increasing cross-border economic activity. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2025 to 2033, with the forecasted market size expected to reach USD 1,315 billion by 2033. This upward trajectory is primarily attributed to the rapid adoption of digital platforms, the proliferation of mobile money services, and favorable regulatory frameworks supporting international money transfers.

The growth of the remittance market is closely tied to global migration trends and the rising economic interdependence among nations. As millions of individuals relocate in search of better employment and educational opportunities, the need to send money back to families and communities in their home countries has surged. This demand is further amplified by the increasing affordability and accessibility of remittance services, particularly in developing regions where traditional banking infrastructure is limited. The proliferation of smartphones and internet penetration has also democratized access to remittance channels, enabling even remote populations to participate in the global financial ecosystem.

Another significant growth factor for the remittance market is the ongoing digital transformation within the financial services sector. The advent of fintech innovations, such as blockchain-based transfers and digital wallets, has dramatically reduced transaction costs and processing times. These advancements have made cross-border remittances faster, more secure, and more transparent, which in turn has fostered greater trust and adoption among users. Additionally, strategic partnerships between traditional banks and fintech companies have created hybrid models that blend the reliability of established institutions with the agility of digital platforms, further enhancing the customer experience.

Regulatory reforms and supportive government policies have also played a crucial role in fueling the expansion of the remittance market. Many countries have implemented measures to streamline compliance, reduce barriers to entry, and promote financial inclusion. Initiatives such as lowering transaction fees, simplifying KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements, and encouraging competition among service providers have collectively contributed to a more dynamic and competitive landscape. Furthermore, international organizations and development agencies continue to advocate for policies that protect migrant workers’ rights and ensure the affordability and security of remittance services.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific commands the lion’s share of the global remittance market, driven by large migrant populations in countries such as India, China, and the Philippines. North America and Europe also represent significant corridors due to their status as major destinations for migrant workers. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa are witnessing rapid growth, fueled by increasing labor mobility and the adoption of digital remittance solutions. Latin America, with its vibrant diaspora communities, is experiencing steady growth, particularly in corridors connecting the United States with Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Type Analysis

The remittance market is broadly segmented by type into inward remittance and outward remittance. Inward remittance, which refers to funds received by individuals or entities in a country from abroad, constitutes the majority share of the market. This dominance is especially pronounced in developing economies, where remittances are a critical source of household income and foreign exchange reserves. Inward remittances often serve as a financial lifeline for families, supporting essential needs such as education, healthcare, and housing. This segment continues to expand as global migration accelerates and more individuals seek opportunities overseas.&l

The biggest U.S. remittance receivers in Latin America are Mexico and Guatemala, with both countries receiving over ** billion U.S. dollars. This is according to a database that tries to model money sent internationally from one party to another. Remittances typically refer to money sent from migrant workers back home to family and friends, although there are other forms of this. Remittances can, for example, include pensioners who have a second home in a foreign country. Nevertheless, Asia Pacific is often referred to as the main receiver of remittances.

In 2023, Mexico received nearly **** billion U.S. dollars worth of remittances, making it the Latin American country with the highest value of international deposits received that year. Guatemala ranked second, with remittances amounting to nearly ** billion dollars. In total, the value of remittances in Latin America and the Caribbean exceeded *** billion U.S. dollars in 2023.

The U.S. was Colombia's main country of origin for remittances in 2021 but not its main destination, according to a country ranking on the flow of such money transfers. Remittances refer to cross-border payments to family or friends and are often associated with migrant workers sending money back home to friends or relatives back in their communities of origin. It is estimated that about *** in ***** people worldwide are involved with remittances - substantially impacting payment behavior in, especially, Asia and Latin America. For Colombia, the top five recipient countries for remittances in 2021 included Spain, Ecuador, the United States, France, and Mexico. Colombia's **** main sources for remittances were - by a large margin - the United States and Venezuela, followed by Spain, Ecuador, and Chile.

The most expensive countries in the world to send remittances to largely consisted of countries in Sub-Saharan Africa as of the third quarter of 2023. This is according to an average taken from different situation in which consumers send money worth 200 U.S. dollars from one country to the next - including cash, MTOs (money transfer organizations) or cards. The source adds that incoming remittances were estimated at 6.39 percent on average for the G20 countries during this timeframe.

China received over ** times more remittances from abroad in 2021 than the value it sent itself to other countries, according to a ranking on the flow of such transfers. Remittances refer to cross-border payments to family or friends and are often associated with migrant workers sending money back home to friends or relatives back in their communities of origin. It is estimated that about one in seven people worldwide are involved with remittances - substantially impacting payment behavior in, especially, Asia and Latin America. For China, the top three recipients for remittances in 2021 included South Korea, the Philippines, and Brazil. China's main sources for remittances - accounting for nearly half of all inflow - were the United States and Hong Kong.

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates accounted for more than *** out of 10 remittances sent from the Middle East and Central Asia to other countries in 2021. Remittances from these four countries ranged from *** billion U.S. dollars to *** billion U.S. dollars. Remittances refer to cross-border payments to family or friends and are often associated with migrant workers sending money back home to friends or relatives back in their communities of origin. It is estimated that about *** in ***** people worldwide are involved with remittances - substantially impacting payment behavior in, especially, Asia and Latin America. The outflow from the Middle East especially goes towards South Asia - India and Bangladesh - and Southeast Asia.