Question 1

What is a SWIFT code?

Accepted Answer

A SWIFT code (also called a BIC — Bank Identifier Code) is a unique 8 or 11 character code that identifies a specific bank during international wire transfers. The first 4 characters are the bank code, the next 2 are the country code, the next 2 are the location, and the optional last 3 identify a specific branch.

Question 2

What is the difference between SWIFT and BIC?

Accepted Answer

SWIFT and BIC refer to the same thing. BIC (Bank Identifier Code) is the formal ISO 9362 standard name. SWIFT is the organisation that manages and assigns these codes globally. Banks, fintech apps, and wire transfer forms use both terms interchangeably.

Question 3

Do I need a SWIFT code for domestic transfers?

Accepted Answer

Usually not. Domestic transfers within the same country typically use local routing codes: sort codes in the UK, routing numbers in the US, BSB numbers in Australia, IFSC codes in India, or IBAN alone in the EU. SWIFT/BIC codes are primarily needed for international (cross-border) wire transfers.

Question 4

Can a bank have more than one SWIFT code?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Large banks often have multiple SWIFT codes — one for the head office (8 characters) and separate codes for different branches or departments (11 characters, ending in XXX for the primary office). If you're sending an international wire, the 8-character code usually routes to the main office, which then forwards internally.

Question 5

What happens if I use the wrong SWIFT code?

Accepted Answer

The transfer may be delayed, returned, or sent to the wrong bank. Always confirm the SWIFT code directly with your recipient or their bank before initiating a wire transfer. The codes in this tool are for reference — your bank may have a slightly different code for specific branches.

Question 6

What is the SWIFT code for SBI (State Bank of India)?

Accepted Answer

The primary SWIFT code for State Bank of India is SBININBB. For specific branches, the code may end in a 3-character branch identifier. SBI also uses SBININBBXXX for the main branch. Always confirm with your SBI branch for international transfers.

Question 7

What is the SWIFT code for Chase Bank?

Accepted Answer

JPMorgan Chase Bank's SWIFT code is CHASUS33. For wire transfers to Chase accounts from outside the US, use CHASUS33 combined with the recipient's Chase account number and US routing number.

Question 8

What is the SWIFT code for Barclays?

Accepted Answer

Barclays Bank's SWIFT code is BARCGB22. This applies to transfers to UK Barclays accounts from abroad. Combine it with the recipient's sort code and account number, or IBAN if available.

SWIFT code finder

SWIFT code finder — questions & answers