A SWIFT code is a standardized identifier that banks use to send money between countries

A SWIFT code is an eight or eleven-character code that identifies a specific bank or branch anywhere in the world. SWIFT stands for the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication — the organization that created and maintains the system. When you send money internationally, the sending bank uses the SWIFT code to route your payment to the correct bank in the correct country, the same way a routing number works for domestic transfers within the United States.

You will see SWIFT codes called by other names depending on where you are: outside the US, they are often called BIC codes (Bank Identifier Code). Some banks also use the terms interchangeably. The code itself looks like a combination of letters and numbers — for example, a major US bank might have a SWIFT code like CHASUS33 or BOFAUS3N. The first four letters identify the bank, the next two identify the country, the next two identify the city or region, and the final three characters (if included) identify the specific branch.

Key Takeaways

  • SWIFT codes identify banks for international transfers and are required by the receiving bank to process money from abroad.
  • A SWIFT code is eight or eleven characters long and includes the bank name, country, city, and sometimes the specific branch.
  • You can find your bank's SWIFT code on your bank's website, by calling customer service, or by asking in person at a branch.
  • Domestic transfers within the United States use routing numbers instead of SWIFT codes, even if the receiving bank has a SWIFT code.
  • If you provide an incorrect SWIFT code, the transfer may be delayed or returned to the sender, so double-check before sending.

How SWIFT codes differ from routing numbers

In the United States, routing numbers handle domestic transfers between banks. A routing number is nine digits and tells the sending bank which US bank to send money to. SWIFT codes do the same job for international transfers, but they work across borders and connect to the global banking network instead of just the US system.

If you are sending money to someone in another country, you will need their bank's SWIFT code, not a routing number. If you are sending money to another US bank account, you use a routing number. Some large US banks participate in both systems — they have a routing number for domestic transfers and a SWIFT code for international ones — but they are separate identifiers for separate purposes.

Where to find your bank's SWIFT code

Your bank's SWIFT code is public information and appears in several places. Start with your bank's website — most banks list their SWIFT code in a section labeled "International Transfers," "Wire Transfer Information," or "SWIFT/BIC Code." You can also find it on statements or documents related to international transfers.

If you cannot find it online, call your bank's customer service line and ask for the SWIFT code. Have your account number ready, because some banks have different SWIFT codes for different types of accounts or branches. You can also visit a branch in person and ask a teller. The code takes seconds to look up, and staff will give it to you when ready.

What happens when you provide a SWIFT code for an international transfer

When you send money internationally, you provide the recipient's bank SWIFT code along with their account number and name. The sending bank uses the SWIFT code to identify the correct bank and route the payment through the international banking network. The receiving bank then deposits the money into the recipient's account.

The process typically takes three to five business days, though it can be faster or slower depending on the banks involved, the countries, and whether there are intermediate banks in the chain. Some banks charge a fee for international transfers, and the receiving bank may also charge a fee. Ask your bank about fees before you send.

What to do if you have the wrong SWIFT code

If you provide an incorrect SWIFT code, the transfer may go to the wrong bank or be rejected entirely. Some banks will catch the error and return the money to you, but this can take one to two weeks. Other times, the money reaches a different bank and sits there until someone notices the mistake.

Always double-check the SWIFT code before you send the transfer. Ask the person receiving the money to confirm it, or look it up on their bank's website yourself. If you have already sent money with the wrong code, contact your bank when ready and provide them with the correct SWIFT code and the recipient's details. Your bank can sometimes intercept the transfer or contact the receiving bank to redirect it.

SWIFT codes for US banks sending money abroad

If you are a US bank customer sending money to someone outside the United States, you will need the recipient's bank's SWIFT code. Your own bank's SWIFT code is not what you provide — the receiving bank's code is what matters. Your bank uses your routing number to identify your account internally, then uses the recipient's SWIFT code to route the money to their bank.

Some recipients may also ask for your bank's SWIFT code if they are sending money to you from abroad. In that case, provide your bank's SWIFT code along with your account number and routing number. Different banks may ask for different pieces of information, so ask the sender what they need before they initiate the transfer.

When you might not need a SWIFT code

Not every international transfer requires a SWIFT code. Some countries use different systems or additional identifiers. For example, many European banks use an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) in addition to or instead of a SWIFT code. Some countries have their own national bank codes. Always ask the receiving bank or the person sending you money what information they need — do not assume a SWIFT code is sufficient.

Digital money transfer services like PayPal, Wise, or Remitly sometimes handle international transfers without requiring you to know SWIFT codes at all. These services manage the banking details behind the scenes. However, if you are sending money directly from your bank account to someone else's bank account in another country, you will typically need a SWIFT code.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a SWIFT code the same as an account number?

No. A SWIFT code identifies the bank or branch, while an account number identifies your specific account within that bank. You need both pieces of information to send or receive an international transfer — the SWIFT code tells the money which bank to go to, and the account number tells that bank which account to deposit it into.

Can I use a SWIFT code for a domestic US transfer?

No. Domestic transfers within the United States use routing numbers, not SWIFT codes. If you are sending money to another US bank account, provide the routing number instead. Using a SWIFT code for a domestic transfer may cause the transfer to fail or be delayed.

Do all banks have SWIFT codes?

Most banks that handle international transfers have SWIFT codes, but not all banks participate in the SWIFT system. Very small banks or credit unions may not have a SWIFT code. If your bank does not have one, ask whether they can send international transfers through a partner bank that does, or whether they use a different system.

What if the recipient's bank does not have a SWIFT code?

If the receiving bank does not have a SWIFT code, you may need to use a different method to send money — such as a digital transfer service, a wire transfer through a partner bank, or a check. Ask your bank what options are available for that country or bank.

How long does an international transfer take with a SWIFT code?

Most international transfers take three to five business days once the sending bank processes them. The exact timing depends on the banks involved, the countries, time zones, and whether intermediate banks are involved. Some transfers arrive faster, and some take longer. Ask your bank for an estimate before you send.