Akif Hazarvi
Key Takeaway
A SWIFT code is an 8-11 character identifier for your bank. Here's everything you need to know about SWIFT codes for international transfers.
In this guide (6 sections)
In this guide
What Is a SWIFT Code?
Quick answer: A SWIFT code (also called a BIC code) is an 8-11 character code that identifies a specific bank or branch for international wire transfers. The format is: 4-letter bank code + 2-letter country code + 2-character location code + optional 3-character branch code. Modern transfer services like Wise and Remitly handle SWIFT routing automatically, so you often don't need one. Learn more in our guide to sending money abroad.
A SWIFT code (also called a BIC — Bank Identifier Code) is a unique 8 or 11 character code that identifies a specific bank or branch worldwide. It's used to route international bank transfers to the correct destination.
SWIFT, formally the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, connects over 11,000 institutions. Learn more about the network at swift.com. The standard is governed by ISO 9362.
You'll need a SWIFT code when sending money via a bank wire transfer. However, modern services like Wise and Remitly handle SWIFT routing internally. Learn more in our guide to how to send money abroad.
Quick Comparison: Best Providers for International Transfers
| Category | Provider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Wise | No SWIFT required — uses local payment rails, 0% markup |
| Fastest Transfer | Remitly | Handles all routing internally, Express option available |
| Cheapest Option | XE | No SWIFT needed, zero fees, strong currency tools |
Based on real quotes from our comparison engine. Compare live rates →
How to Read a SWIFT Code
A SWIFT code has 4 parts:
- Characters 1–4: Bank code (e.g., CHAS = Chase)
- Characters 5–6: Country code (e.g., US = United States)
- Characters 7–8: Location code (e.g., 33 = New York)
- Characters 9–11 (optional): Branch code (e.g., XXX = head office)
Example: CHASUS33 = Chase Bank, United States, New York (head office)
If you have an 8-character code, it refers to the bank's head office. An 11-character code identifies a specific branch.
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How to Find Your Bank's SWIFT Code
There are several ways to find your SWIFT code:
- Use our SWIFT code lookup tool — Search by bank name, country, or city on our SWIFT codes page.
- Check your bank statement — Many banks print the SWIFT code on monthly statements.
- Online banking — Log into your bank's website or app and look in account details or settings.
- Call your bank — Customer service can provide your SWIFT code instantly.
- Visit your bank — Any branch can give you the SWIFT code for that location.
SWIFT Code vs IBAN: What's the Difference?
These are complementary but different:
- SWIFT code identifies the bank (which institution)
- IBAN identifies the account (which specific account at that bank)
For a European transfer (e.g., UK to Europe), you typically need both: the IBAN to identify the recipient's account and the SWIFT code to route the payment to the right bank. For transfers to the US, you use a routing number + account number instead of an IBAN.
Not all countries use IBANs — the US, Canada, Australia, and many Asian countries don't. But virtually all countries use SWIFT codes for international transfers. The IBAN.com registry covers 80+ countries. For IBAN validation rules, see ISO 13616.
Do You Always Need a SWIFT Code?
You need a SWIFT code for traditional bank wire transfers. However, many modern transfer services don't require you to know the SWIFT code:
- Wise — Uses local bank details (sort code + account number for UK, routing number + account number for US)
- Remitly — Only needs the recipient's bank account number for most corridors
- PayPal/Xoom — Uses email or phone number
These services handle the SWIFT routing internally, so you don't need to worry about it. Use our comparison tool to find the best provider for your corridor. For more detail on what information is needed, read our complete guide to sending money abroad.