Send money with a Key to Colombia

Discover how to easily send money to Colombia from Spain using a key. Forget about complicated IBAN numbers and enjoy a simpler way to make international transfers. We’ve prepared a complete guide to help you understand how key-based payments work, answer common questions, and make sure your transfers with Western Union are clear, smooth, and easy from start to finish.

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    What is a key and how does it work with Western Union?

    A key is an identifier that allows someone in Colombia to receive money without sharing a bank account number. It can be a mobile number, an email, an ID document, or a bank-generated code. The key is linked to the recipient’s bank account or mobile wallet1, and payments arrive directly.

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    How to send money with a key: Step-by-step guide

    Ready to send? Follow these steps to send money with Western Union using a key:

    Confirm your receiver’s Key is active

    They must have created it with their bank. A Key can be a mobile number, email, ID document, or custom string (alphanumeric code issue by their bank).

    Log in or sign up to your Western Union account

    • Go to westernunion.com or open the app.
    • Complete your identity verification if it’s your first transfer.

    Select Colombia as the destination and enter the amount you want to send

    • Select Colombia as the destination and receive method: Key.
    • Enter the amount you want to send.
    • Review the exchange rate2 and transfer fee2.
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    Choose “Key / Instant Payment” as your delivery method

    Choose key type provided by your receiver: mobile number, email, ID document, or a code.

    Choose how to pay

    You can pay with your card, bank transfer, or cash at any nearby agent location.

    Choose your receiver’s Key type

    In the following page, enter the key that can be a mobile number, email, ID document, or custom string (alphanumeric code issue by their bank).

    Enter your receiver’s Key following these rules

    • ID document: Up to 18 alphanumeric characters, no spaces, hyphens (-), or symbols.
    • Mobile number: 10 digits and must start with 3.
    • Email: Must include “@” before the domain.
    • Custom string (code issue by bank): 6–21 characters, must include letters + numbers, starts with “@” / see an example below.
    Mom giving daughter a piggy back ride, send money from Japan to India

    How recipient can get a key from banks or mobile wallets in Colombia?

    If you are a receiver, you will need to register a Key with your bank or digital wallet in Colombia and provide it to the sender. The process is simple, free, and done entirely through bank’s or wallet’s mobile app or website. Here are general steps to register a key:

    1. Open your banking or digital wallet app or website and look for “Key” section/zone.
    2. Select Register Key (“Registrar llave”).
    3. Choose which account you want to link.
    4. Pick the type of key you want to use: ID number, Mobile number, Email or Bank‑generated alphanumeric code.
    5. Confirm your details and accept terms.
    6. Your key will be active and ready to receive transfers. Note: You can register more than one key, but each key can only be linked to one account or wallet.

     

    Here is some example on how to obtain a Key from major banks and digital wallets1 in Colombia:

    Mom giving daughter a piggy back ride, send money from Japan to India

    Important Before You Send

    Sending money with a Key is fast and convenient, but it’s important to double‑check details before confirming your transfer.

    • Confirm the key carefully: Transfers sent to the wrong key may not be automatically recoverable.
    • Never click links to “accept” transfers: Key payments do not require confirmation. Messages asking you to click a link or share details are likely scams.
    • Use only official apps and websites: Register and manage your Keys exclusively through your bank or wallet’s official digital channels.

    Benefits of sending money with Key

    Simple & error‑free

    You only need one key from your recipient, making frequent transfers fast and hassle‑free.

    Flexible & convenient

    Multiple payment methods and easy real‑time tracking from your phone or computer.

    Fast & reliable

    Enjoy quick delivery times and consistent support throughout the entire process.

    Ready to send money to Colombia with key?

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    Frequently Asked Questions about key-based transfers

    Why was my recipient’s key rejected or inactive?

    Keys can be inactive, mis typed, or not linked; some attempts are auto-blocked. Ask the recipient to verify their key type and status in their bank/wallet app before you resend.

    Can I change the type of key after starting a transfer?

    No. You must cancel and create a new transfer if you need to change the key type.

    What documents do I need to verify my account?

    To verify your account you need any of the following valid photo IDs:

    • Passport (except Spain-issued passport)
    • EU national ID (front and back)
    • ES residence permit (front and back)
    • ES work permit (front and back)

    Find out more about verification process.

    How do I track my transfer?

    Use your MTCN to check the status online or in the app.

    Can I send money to my own key?

    Yes, if you have an active key in Colombia. Otherwise, you can create your key to send money to yourself. Follow these steps.

    I sent money to the wrong key. Can I get it back?

    Possibly, but it’s not automatic. Contact your bank immediately to open a claim; recovery depends on timing, recipient cooperation, and each bank’s protocol.

    My transfer shows debited but the recipient doesn’t see the money. What should I do?

    This can happen during temporary system incidents. Keep your receipt and contact your bank’s support; institutions have been processing reversals/credits after stability returns.

    Still have questions about money transfer with key?

    Contact our Customer Care team or visit our FAQ page for more information.

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    1 Additional third-party charges may apply.

    2 Western Union makes money from currency exchange. Fees and rates subject to change without notice.