As of January 9, 2025, making immediate online transfers will be free of charge in most banks in Europe. This measure responds to the new European regulation, which obliges financial institutions to match the costs of immediate transfers with those of ordinary transfers, as confirmed by this media.
What are immediate transfers?
Immediate transfers allow funds to reach the beneficiary’s account in a matter of seconds, operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. These transactions offer constant availability, making them ideal for situations where speed is key. Until now, this service had a cost that varied depending on the bank. In some cases, there was a flat fee, a percentage of the amount transferred, or a combination of both. New European Union regulations, however, make it mandatory to eliminate these charges, making immediate transfers accessible to all users.
The impact of the regulations
The EU decision seeks to modernize and unify the electronic payment system in Europe, encouraging the use of immediate transfers as standard. This measure will allow users to enjoy fast and free transactions, an advantage that until now was restricted by the associated costs.
Adaptation of banks
Financial institutions must implement the necessary changes to comply with the regulation by January 9, 2025. Although some banks have already begun to apply these conditions, most are expected to adapt their services in the coming months. This change represents a significant step forward for consumers, who will be able to make transfers more quickly and without worrying about additional costs, while strengthening competitiveness and transparency in the European financial sector.
