Sending money as a gift across borders shouldn’t be complex or expensive. If you’re planning to transfer gift money from India to Europe, this guide will take you through every step, from understanding the rules to choosing the best method, calculating TCS, and comparing top remittance options.
Why Sending Gift Money to Europe is Easier Than Ever?
As Europe undergoes a digital payments revolution with over 72.1 billion non-cash transactions in just the first half of 2024, sending money abroad has never been simpler. Countries like Lithuania and Croatia are embracing e-wallets, while France has introduced Wero, its own local digital wallet.
This growing ecosystem makes it easier for Indians to send monetary gifts to friends, family, or students living in Europe securely, legally, and affordably.
Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, festival, or just a thoughtful gesture, when you transfer gift money from India to Europe, it should be fast, transparent, and worry-free.
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Best Ways to Transfer Gift Money from India to Europe
1. Online Money Transfer Services (Recommended)
Platforms like HOP Remit offer a 100% digital experience with real-time tracking, low fees, and highly competitive exchange rates.
- Pros: Transparent pricing, 24×7 access, fast transfers
- Best for: Almost every gifting scenario
Learn more: Complete Guide to International Money Transfers with HOP Remit
2. Wire Transfers
Trusted and widely accepted, but relatively slower and often comes with hidden charges.
- Pros: Secure and traditional
- Cons: High fees, delays, and exchange rate markups
3. Gift Cards (E-Gift)
A great alternative that’s more personal. You can send Amazon, Apple, or local EU merchant gift cards directly via email.
- Pros: Instant, customizable
- Best for: Holidays, birthdays, small gifts
4. Cash (Not Recommended)
Sending physical currency via courier is risky and outdated. Use only if digital methods are not available.
- Risk: Theft, legal complications
5. Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
Good for long-term support but lacks flexibility and instant access.
- Best for: Future planning, child education funds
How to Transfer Gift Money from India to Europe Without Making These 5 Costly Mistakes
TCS on Gift Remittances to Europe (As of 2025)
Under India’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS), individuals can remit up to USD 2,50,000/year. However, gifts fall under the “other purposes” category and attract 20% TCS for amounts over ₹10 lakh per year.
| Purpose | TCS Rate |
| Education via Loan | 0% |
| Education (Self-Funded) | 5% above ₹10 lakh/year |
| Gift or Investment Remittances | 20% above ₹10 lakh/year |
| Medical Treatment | 5% above ₹10 lakh/year |
Pro Tip: Always ask your provider if TCS is included or has to be paid separately. HOP Remit by moneyHOP displays it upfront.
Want to avoid high TCS? Check out this guide on How to Avoid 20% TCS on Foreign Remittances
Required Documents for Sending Gift Money Abroad
To transfer gift money from India to Europe, you’ll need:
- Valid Passport
- PAN Card or Aadhaar (KYC)
- Gift Declaration Letter
- Recipient’s Details (Name, IBAN/SWIFT Code, Address)
- Proof of Relationship (for family transfers)
Additional documents like birth/marriage certificates may be required based on recipient type.
How to Send Gift Money with HOP Remit in 5 Easy Steps
- Create Your HOP Remit Account: Quick registration via email/phone with full KYC.
- Enter Transfer Details: Input amount, choose purpose: gift, maintenance, etc.
- Add Beneficiary Info: Name, IBAN, address, and relationship type.
- Upload Documents: Aadhaar/PAN + Gift Letter. All done digitally.
- Pay and Done! Use UPI, Net Banking, or Debit Card. money is transferred typically within 24-48 hours.
Want to send living expenses or university fees to Europe instead? See our complete guide for sending living expenses to Europe from India
Comparison of Remittance Methods
| Method | Speed | Exchange Rate | Fees | Ease of Use | Security |
| Bank Transfer | 3-5 days | Moderate | High | Medium | High |
| HOP Remit | 24-48 hrs | Low (Best) | Low | High | High |
| Debit/Credit Cards | 1-3 days | High | Medium-High | High | Moderate |
| Forex Cards | 1-3 days | High | Moderate | High | High |
| Demand Draft | 5-10 days | Moderate | Low | Low | High |
Looking for more comparisons? See how HOP Remit stacks up against ICICI Bank
Why HOP Remit is the Best Choice to Transfer Gift Money from India to Europe?
- Best Exchange Rates in the Market
- Zero Hidden Charges
- Transfers in Under 48 Hours
- Rate Lock for 24 Hours
- 24/7 Customer Support
Unlike banks or generic remittance apps, HOP Remit by moneyHOP is built for global gifting, living expenses, and overseas education payments.
Who Can You Send Gift Money to?
According to FEMA & RBI, you can send gifts to:
- Spouse
- Parents (including step-parents)
- Children and their spouses
- Siblings (including step-siblings)
For others (friends, distant relatives), proper documentation and declaration is mandatory.
Common Scenarios for Gift Remittances to Europe
- Parents Supporting Children Studying in France or Germany
- Gifting Newlyweds in Italy or Spain
- Helping a sibling settle in the Netherlands
- Holiday or festival gift remittance to loved ones in Estonia or Ireland
Related: How to pay university fees in Europe from India?
Additional Tips to Maximize Value
- Always compare the exchange rate + total cost (including TCS)
- Ask for a transfer receipt with breakdown
- Avoid using credit cards unless urgent—they carry high FX markups
- Use rate freeze options to beat currency volatility
Why pay more for international money transfers when moneyHOP is here?
- NO hidden fees
- ZERO convenience fees
- Real-time updates
- Lowest exchange rates
Final Word
To transfer gift money from India to Europe seamlessly, you need speed, transparency, and compliance. Platforms like HOP Remit by moneyHOP are transforming how cross-border gifting works, cutting down on fees, improving speed, and offering features like rate-lock and instant receipts.
As migration to Europe grows and digital remittance tools evolve, gifting money to loved ones across borders will only get easier.
So next time you think of gifting across borders, skip the stress—just HOP it.
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