SWIFT/BIC Code Validator Tool
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SWIFT/BIC Validation Result
SWIFT/BIC Structure Breakdown
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How the SWIFT/BIC Validator Tool Works
When you enter a SWIFT/BIC code into our validator, it performs multiple checks to ensure the code is properly formatted and corresponds to a real banking institution. All validation happens instantly in your browser—no data leaves your device.
SWIFT = BBBB CC LL DDD
Where:
• BBBB = Bank Code (4 letters: institution code)
• CC = Country Code (2 letters: ISO country code)
• LL = Location Code (2 letters/digits: city/head office)
• DDD = Branch Code (3 letters/digits: optional, ‘XXX’ for primary office)
Validation Process:
1. Check length (8 or 11 characters)
2. Validate character types per position
3. Verify country code exists
4. Check against known bank database
5. Provide detailed breakdown
The validation follows ISO 9362 standards. Our tool checks each segment against official banking data to ensure accuracy. We maintain an updated database of over 10,000 active SWIFT codes worldwide.
Why SWIFT Codes Matter for International Transfers
SWIFT codes are essential for any cross-border payment. They ensure your money reaches the correct bank anywhere in the world. Without a valid SWIFT code, international transfers can fail, get delayed for weeks, or even be sent to the wrong institution.
Key Reasons to Validate SWIFT Codes
Prevent Failed Transfers
Banks reject transfers with invalid SWIFT codes immediately, causing delays and potential fees. Validation catches errors before you send money.
Avoid Costly Delays
Wrong SWIFT codes can route money to incorrect banks, taking 2-4 weeks to recover funds. Validation ensures direct routing.
When You Absolutely Need a SWIFT Code
- 1 International wire transfers between different countries
- 2 Cross-border business payments to suppliers or partners
- 3 Sending money to family living in another country
- 4 Receiving international payments for work or services
Common SWIFT Code Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Most SWIFT code errors come from simple typos or misunderstandings. Here are the most common issues we see and how to prevent them.
Using the Wrong Case
Problem: SWIFT codes should be uppercase letters only. Mixed case (e.g., “DeutDeFF”) causes validation failures.
Solution: Our tool automatically converts to uppercase. Always provide and request SWIFT codes in uppercase format.
Confusing Similar Letters and Numbers
Problem: Mistaking ‘0’ for ‘O’ or ‘1’ for ‘I’. SWIFT codes only use letters in the first 8 positions.
Solution: Remember: SWIFT codes are letters only (except optional branch code). If you see numbers in the first 8 characters, it’s likely wrong.
Missing or Including Branch Code
Problem: Not knowing whether to use 8-character or 11-character format.
Solution: 8-character codes route to the bank’s main office. 11-character codes route to specific branches. When in doubt, use the 8-character version.
Table of Truth: Example SWIFT/BIC Codes
Use this reference table to understand valid SWIFT code formats and common validation scenarios.
| SWIFT Code | Bank Name | Country | Valid? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEUTDEFF | Deutsche Bank | Germany | Yes | Main office (8 chars) |
| CITIUS33 | Citibank | United States | Yes | Main office |
| FBNINGLA | First Bank of Nigeria | Nigeria | Yes | Lagos head office |
| DEUT1234 | – | – | No | Numbers in wrong position |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between SWIFT and BIC codes?
They’re the same thing. BIC stands for “Bank Identifier Code,” and SWIFT is the network that uses these codes. People use the terms interchangeably. SWIFT/BIC codes identify banks globally for international transfers.
Do I need both SWIFT and IBAN for international transfers?
For most international transfers outside the SEPA zone: yes. The SWIFT code identifies the bank, while the IBAN identifies the specific account. Within Europe’s SEPA zone, IBAN alone is often sufficient for Euro transfers.
How long does SWIFT code validation take?
Our tool validates SWIFT codes instantly as you type. There’s no waiting because all checks happen in your browser. You get results in milliseconds with detailed breakdowns.
Is my financial data safe when using this validator?
Absolutely. No data leaves your browser. We don’t have servers collecting your information. The validation happens entirely on your device. We don’t store, log, or transmit any codes you enter.
International Transfer Checklist
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✓
SWIFT/BIC validated successfully
Use our tool to confirm the code is correct and identifies the right bank
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✓
IBAN validated (if required)
Use our IBAN validator to check the account number
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✓
Recipient details confirmed
Name matches the account holder name exactly
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✓
Fees and exchange rates checked
Understand all costs before sending