SWIFT and BIC Guides

Clear explanations for finding, validating and using SWIFT/BIC codes in international bank transfers.

What Is a SWIFT Code?

Learn what a SWIFT code is, how the 8 and 11 character BIC format works, and when to use it for an international bank transfer.

SWIFT and BIC usually refer to the same bank identifier. Learn why both terms are used and how to find the correct code for a transfer.

Understand the difference between a SWIFT/BIC code and an IBAN, and how they are used together in international payments.

Find the correct SWIFT/BIC code by checking a bank statement, bank website, online banking portal or a reliable SWIFT code lookup tool.

Validate a SWIFT/BIC code by checking its length, structure, country code and whether it appears in a bank code database.

Learn what can happen when a SWIFT/BIC code is incorrect, including delays, returned payments and additional bank fees.

Typical international transfer times depend on countries, currencies, cut-off times, intermediary banks and compliance checks.

A clear explanation of the SWIFT/BIC code format, including bank code, country code, location code and branch code.