What a SWIFT Code Is and Why Banks Use It

A SWIFT code is an 8 or 11-character identifier that tells banks which financial institution to send your money to when you make an international transfer

SWIFT stands for Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication. It is a messaging system that banks use to communicate with each other across borders. When you send money internationally, your bank uses the recipient's SWIFT code to route the payment to the correct bank in the correct country. Without it, the transfer either fails or gets delayed while the banks figure out where the money should go.

A SWIFT code works differently from a routing number. A routing number identifies a specific bank branch within the United States. A SWIFT code identifies a bank anywhere in the world. If you are sending money to someone in another country, you will need their bank's SWIFT code, not a routing number.

Key Takeaways

SWIFT codes are 8 or 11 characters long and identify a specific bank and branch internationally.
The first four characters are the bank code, the next two are the country code, and the remaining characters identify the branch.
You need a SWIFT code for international transfers, but not for transfers within the United States.
Your bank can provide your SWIFT code, or you can find it on your bank's website or through a SWIFT code directory.

How a SWIFT code is structured

SWIFT codes follow a consistent format that tells receiving banks exactly where to send the money. The first four characters are the bank code, which identifies your bank. The next two characters are the country code — for example, US for the United States, GB for the United Kingdom, or CA for Canada. The next two characters identify the location code, usually the city where the bank's main office is located. If the code is 11 characters, the last three characters identify the specific branch.

For example, a SWIFT code might look like CHASUS33NYC. CHAS is the bank code for Chase Bank, US is the country code for the United States, 33 is the location code for New York, and NYC identifies the specific branch. If a SWIFT code is only 8 characters, it refers to the bank's main office rather than a specific branch.

When you need a SWIFT code versus a routing number

Use a routing number when you are sending money to another bank account within the United States. Use a SWIFT code when you are sending money to a bank account outside the United States. Some banks require both pieces of information for international transfers — the SWIFT code tells the international banking network which bank to contact, and an account number or IBAN (International Bank Account Number) tells that bank which specific account to deposit the money into.

If you are receiving money from abroad, the sender will ask you for your bank's SWIFT code. If you are sending money abroad, you will need to ask the recipient for their bank's SWIFT code. Either way, you should get this information directly from the bank, not from the person sending or receiving the money, because a wrong code can send your money to the wrong institution.

How to find your bank's SWIFT code

Your bank can tell you your SWIFT code in seconds. Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card, log into your online banking portal, or visit a branch in person and ask. Most banks also publish their SWIFT code on their website — look for a section on international transfers or wire transfers. If you cannot find it online, a phone call is the fastest route.

If you need someone else's bank's SWIFT code, ask them directly or have them check with their bank. You can also search for SWIFT codes through the official SWIFT directory at swift.com, though this requires knowing the exact bank name and country. Do not rely on third-party websites that claim to list SWIFT codes, because an incorrect code can cause your transfer to fail or be sent to the wrong place.

What happens if you use the wrong SWIFT code

If you enter an incorrect SWIFT code, one of three things usually happens. The transfer may be rejected outright by the receiving bank, and your money returns to your account within a few business days. The transfer may be sent to a different bank, in which case that bank will reject it and send it back. Or, in rare cases, the money may be sent to the correct country but the wrong bank, and you will have to contact both banks to retrieve it.

The process of recovering misdirected international transfers is slow and uncertain. It can take weeks or months, and there is no may provide the money will be returned. This is why it is critical to double-check the SWIFT code before you confirm the transfer. Ask the recipient to confirm their SWIFT code in writing, or have them send you a recent bank statement that shows it.

SWIFT codes versus IBANs

An IBAN (International Bank Account Number) and a SWIFT code serve different purposes in international transfers. A SWIFT code identifies the bank. An IBAN identifies the specific account within that bank. Many countries outside the United States use IBANs as their standard account identifier. An IBAN can be 15 to 34 characters long and includes the country code, a check digit, and the account number.

When you send money internationally, you typically need both the SWIFT code and the IBAN. The SWIFT code tells the international banking network which bank to contact. The IBAN tells that bank which account to deposit the money into. Some banks in the United States do not use IBANs — instead, they use the routing number and account number. Always ask the recipient which information their bank requires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a SWIFT code the same as a routing number?

No. A routing number identifies a specific bank branch within the United States. A SWIFT code identifies a bank anywhere in the world. You use routing numbers for domestic transfers and SWIFT codes for international transfers.

Do I need a SWIFT code to receive money from another country?

Yes. The person sending you money will need your bank's SWIFT code to route the transfer correctly. You should provide them with your bank's SWIFT code and your account number or IBAN, depending on what your bank requires.

Can I find a SWIFT code on my bank statement?

Sometimes. Some banks print the SWIFT code on statements or account documents. If you do not see it, call your bank or check their website. The official SWIFT directory at swift.com can also help you locate a code if you know the bank name and country.

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

All banks that participate in international transfers have SWIFT codes. If you cannot find one, the bank may not handle international transfers, or you may have the wrong bank name. Contact the recipient and ask them to confirm their bank's name and location, then search again.

How long does an international transfer take if I use the correct SWIFT code?

International transfers typically take three to five business days once the receiving bank accepts the payment. The exact timeline depends on the banks involved and whether they process transfers on weekends. Some banks offer expedited transfers that arrive within one business day, though these usually cost more.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.