What is a SWIFT code (BIC)? Format and how to find it
Quick answer: a SWIFT code, also called a BIC (Bank Identifier Code), is an 8 or 11-character code that identifies a specific bank in international money transfers. You need it to receive money from abroad or send an international wire. In the US, you give the sender your bank’s SWIFT code plus your account number. US banks do not use IBANs.
How to read a SWIFT code
A SWIFT code has four parts. Here is a made-up example, ABCDUS33XXX:
| Part | Characters | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank code | 4 letters | ABCD | The bank |
| Country code | 2 letters | US | The country (ISO code) |
| Location code | 2 letters or digits | 33 | City or region |
| Branch code (optional) | 3 letters or digits | XXX | A specific branch; XXX means head office |
An 8-character code refers to the bank’s primary office. Many banks ask senders to use one main SWIFT code for all incoming international wires.
Where to find your bank’s SWIFT code
- Your bank’s website, usually on a page about international wire transfers.
- Online banking, under wire instructions.
- By calling your bank. Some smaller banks and credit unions do not have their own SWIFT code and receive international wires through a larger intermediary bank, which will have its own instructions.
Always use the instructions your bank gives you, especially if an intermediary bank is involved.
SWIFT code vs routing number vs IBAN
| Code | Used for | Format | Used in the US? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routing number (ABA) | Domestic ACH and wires | 9 digits | Yes |
| SWIFT / BIC | International transfers | 8 or 11 characters | Yes |
| IBAN | Identifies an account in international transfers | Up to 34 characters, starts with country code | No, but needed to send to Europe and many other countries |
See what is a routing number for the domestic code.
Information needed to send an international wire
- Recipient’s full name and address
- Recipient’s account number, or IBAN where used
- Recipient bank’s name, address and SWIFT code
- Intermediary bank details, if required
- Purpose of payment (some countries require it)
- Amount and currency
International wires usually take 1 to 5 business days, and fees can include your bank’s sending fee, intermediary fees and the receiving bank’s fee, plus an exchange rate markup. Compare the total cost, not just the fee. See ACH vs wire transfer.
Staying safe
A SWIFT code is public information. Scammers sometimes send fake “bank” details for overseas payments. Verify payment instructions with the recipient by phone, using contact details you already have.
Frequently asked questions
Is a SWIFT code the same as a BIC? Yes, the terms are used interchangeably.
Do I need a SWIFT code to receive money from abroad? Yes, the sender’s bank needs it, plus your account number and your bank’s name and address.
Is a SWIFT code needed for domestic transfers? No. US domestic transfers use the routing number.
For country dialing codes when calling an overseas bank, see our country calling codes.