What is a SWIFT Code?

A SWIFT code (also known as a SWIFT-BIC, BIC code, SWIFT ID, or ISO 9362 code) is a standard format of Bank Identifier Codes approved by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It is a unique identification code for both financial and non-financial institutions.

The code is used when transferring money between banks, particularly for international wire transfers. It can also be used to exchange other messages between banks. The SWIFT code is 8 or 11 characters long and made up of letters and numbers.

Here's the structure of a SWIFT Code:

• First 4 characters (letters only) - represent the bank's code.
• Next 2 characters (letters only) - represent the country code.
• Next 2 characters (letters or numbers) - represent the location code.
• Last 3 characters (letters or numbers) - represent the branch code (optional). If 'XXX' is used, it refers to the bank's head office.

For example, in the SWIFT code 'BARCGB22XXX':

• BARC is the bank code (Barclays)
• GB is the country code (United Kingdom)
• 22 is the location code
• XXX represents the head office

It's important to use the correct SWIFT code when performing international money transfers as it ensures the funds reach the correct destination.

What is a SWIFT payment?

A SWIFT payment is an international wire transfer sent via the SWIFT international payment network. SWIFT, which stands for Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, is a messaging network used by financial institutions worldwide to securely send and receive information, such as money transfer instructions.

In a SWIFT payment, banks use standardized SWIFT codes to send and receive unique money transfer instructions to each other, enabling them to make secure, cross-border transactions.

These codes identify each bank involved in the transfer process and ensure the money reaches the right destination. As a global standard for secure financial messaging, SWIFT connects more than 11,000 financial institutions in over 200 countries and territories. It is widely used for international money transfers, including business transactions, personal remittances, and foreign exchange.

How to make a SWIFT Payment

The process may vary slightly depending on your bank, but these are the basic steps:

In a SWIFT payment, banks use standardized SWIFT codes to send and receive unique money transfer instructions to each other, enabling them to make secure, cross-border transactions.

1. Identify Your Bank's SWIFT/BIC Code: Your bank's SWIFT/BIC code is an international code that uniquely identifies your bank. You can usually find this code on your bank's website or by contacting customer service.
2. Identify the Recipient's Bank SWIFT/BIC Code: You'll need the SWIFT/BIC code for the recipient's bank as well. They should be able to provide this to you. Make sure you double-check it to avoid any errors.
3. Collect the Recipient's Account Details: You'll need the recipient's full name, bank account number, and bank name, and in some cases, the bank's address. The recipient should provide all this information.
4. Log in to Your Online Banking System: Most banks allow international payments to be made online. If you're not sure how to do this, contact your bank's customer service for help.
5. Navigate to the International Payments Section: Look for a section on the website for international payments or transfers. The exact location of this section varies between banks, but it's typically found in the payments or transfers area.
6. Enter the Payment Details: Input the recipient's bank details, including their SWIFT/BIC code and bank account number. You'll also need to input the amount you want to transfer and select the currency you want the recipient to receive. Make sure to double-check all the information before you proceed.
7. Review the Payment and Fees: Before you submit the payment, review all the details to make sure they're correct. Your bank may display the transfer fees and exchange rate for the transaction. Make sure you're comfortable with these before you proceed.
8. Confirm and Send the Payment: If everything looks correct, confirm the payment. Your bank will then send the money via the SWIFT network to the recipient's bank.
9. Record the payment reference: After you've submitted the payment, your bank may provide a confirmation number or payment reference. Keep this number in a safe place in case you need to track the payment or address any issues later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer

The SWIFT code tool is provided for informational purposes only. Whilst every effort is made to provide accurate data, users must acknowledge that this website accepts no liability whatsoever with respect to its accuracy. Only your bank can confirm the correct bank account information. If you are making an important or time-critical payment, we recommend you contact your bank first.