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PayPal has long been one of the most trusted platforms for sending and receiving money globally. However, with Thunes (a global cross-border payments provider) no longer supporting PayPal transfers in certain regions, many users are left asking: How can I transfer money from PayPal now that Thunes has effectively been canceled?
In this article, we provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to alternative methods you can use today to transfer your PayPal funds securely, quickly, and efficiently. Understanding the Thunes-PayPal Disruption
Thunes previously acted as a middleman for international remittances, enabling PayPal users in various countries to send or withdraw money seamlessly. With its cancellation, many PayPal users—particularly in countries where direct bank withdrawals are restricted—are experiencing difficulties accessing their funds.
The good news is that alternative solutions exist. By exploring different withdrawal methods, linked financial services, and third-party providers, users can still transfer money from PayPal without interruption. Option 1: Transfer PayPal Funds Directly to a Linked Bank Account
The most straightforward method remains a direct transfer to your local bank account.
- Log in to your PayPal account.
- Navigate to “Wallet” and select “Link a Bank Account.”
- Add your local or international bank details.
- Confirm the bank by completing verification (micro-deposits or instant verification).
- Once linked, choose “Transfer Money” → “Withdraw to Bank.”
✅ Pros: Secure, direct, low-cost in many countries.
❌ Cons: Not available in all regions, and transfers can take 1–5 business days. Option 2: Use a PayPal-Linked Debit or Credit Card
If your country allows it, you can request a PayPal Debit Mastercard or link an existing Visa/Mastercard to withdraw funds instantly.
- Go to Wallet → Link a Card.
- Enter your card details and verify ownership.
- Use the “Instant Transfer” option to move money to the card.
This option is particularly useful for those who need quick access to funds.
✅ Pros: Instant transfer, usable worldwide.
❌ Cons: Fees can be higher (up to 1.75% per transfer). Option 3: Withdraw via Local Payment Processors
In countries where PayPal has no direct bank support, users often rely on local fintech companies or digital wallets. Many of these providers have replaced Thunes in offering PayPal withdrawal services.
Examples include:
- GCash (Philippines)
- M-Pesa (Kenya and East Africa)
- Payoneer (Global)
These services allow PayPal users to withdraw funds into local currency wallets, which can then be spent or withdrawn as cash.
✅ Pros: Convenient, fast, region-specific.
❌ Cons: Limited availability, sometimes higher conversion fees. Option 4: Transfer PayPal Balance to Payoneer
Payoneer is one of the most popular alternatives after Thunes. Many freelancers, businesses, and remote workers use Payoneer to receive international payments.
To transfer PayPal money to Payoneer:
- Create a Payoneer account.
- Obtain your Payoneer bank account details (US/EU/UK-based virtual account).
- Link these bank details to your PayPal account.
- Withdraw PayPal funds into Payoneer.
✅ Pros: Global acceptance, quick access to funds.
❌ Cons: Conversion and withdrawal fees apply. Option 5: Use Wise (Formerly TransferWise)
Wise is another powerful tool for international money transfers. While Wise is not directly integrated with PayPal, you can link your Wise account details as a bank account to withdraw funds.
Steps:
- Open a Wise account and activate multi-currency wallets.
- Use Wise’s provided local bank details (e.g., US bank account).
- Link these details to PayPal.
- Withdraw funds into Wise and convert to your preferred currency.
✅ Pros: Excellent exchange rates, low transfer fees.
❌ Cons: Setup requires verification, not instant for all currencies. Option 6: Send Money via PayPal “Friends & Family”
In urgent cases, you may choose to send PayPal money to a trusted person who has an accessible withdrawal option.
- Use the “Send Money to Friends & Family” feature.
- They withdraw the money using their local method.
- They transfer the equivalent back to you through another channel.
✅ Pros: Quick workaround, useful when official withdrawals fail.
❌ Cons: Trust-based, may include higher fees depending on the transaction type. Option 7: Third-Party Currency Exchange Services
In some regions, licensed exchange services can help convert PayPal balances into local currency. These services act as intermediaries, often providing better withdrawal speed but at a slightly higher cost. Always ensure the provider is regulated and reputable, as scams are common in this space. Best Practices for Safe PayPal Transfers After Thunes Cancellation
To avoid delays, fees, and risks, follow these best practices:
- Always link a verified bank account or card to your PayPal wallet.
- Use officially partnered services like Payoneer or Wise.
- Keep an eye on PayPal’s regional updates, as new withdrawal partners may replace Thunes.
- Avoid unverified third-party services to reduce fraud risk.
- Enable two-factor authentication on all accounts for added security.
While the end of Thunes support has caused temporary challenges, PayPal continues to expand partnerships with regional fintech platforms. Countries previously dependent on Thunes are gradually gaining new withdrawal methods through direct banking integrations, e-wallets, and alternative remittance companies. Users should regularly check PayPal’s official updates page and explore backup withdrawal options to avoid interruptions in accessing their funds. Conclusion
Although Thunes is no longer an option for PayPal transfers, there are still reliable alternatives available, including direct bank transfers, Payoneer, Wise, local e-wallets, and debit card withdrawals. By exploring these options, PayPal users can continue to move money safely and efficiently without being restricted by the Thunes cancellation.
