Hong Kong Bank Code Checker Tool
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How Hong Kong Bank Code Validation Works
Hong Kong uses a simple but strict 3-digit bank code system. Every bank operating in Hong Kong gets assigned a unique code by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA). These codes are permanent and don’t change, even if a bank rebrands or merges.
When you validate a bank code here, the tool checks it against the official registry of licensed banks in Hong Kong. If the code exists, you’ll see which bank it belongs to, plus whether it’s a retail bank, commercial bank, or restricted license bank. This matters because not all banks handle every type of transfer.
Valid Bank Code = Exists in HKMA Registry
The validation is binary: either the code is registered with an active bank, or it isn’t. There’s no algorithm or calculation, just a direct lookup.
Unlike some countries that encode information into the digits (like branch location or account type), Hong Kong bank codes are just identifiers. The number 004 doesn’t tell you anything about HSBC except that it’s HSBC. The codes were assigned sequentially as banks got licensed, which is why older banks tend to have lower numbers.
What Your Bank Code Tells You
A valid Hong Kong bank code confirms three things. First, it’s a real bank licensed to operate in Hong Kong. Second, it tells you the bank’s legal name (which might differ from their marketing name). Third, it indicates the bank’s license type, which affects what services they can offer.
License Types Matter
Licensed banks (like HSBC, Hang Seng, Bank of China) can do everything: take deposits of any size, offer checking and savings accounts, process CHATS and RTGS transfers, issue credit cards, and provide loans. These are your full-service banks.
Restricted license banks have limitations. They can’t take deposits under HK$500,000 from individuals, which means they focus on corporate banking, trade finance, or wealth management. If you’re sending personal transfers, you probably won’t encounter these.
Deposit-taking companies have even tighter restrictions. They’re usually specialized lenders or finance companies. They can take deposits but with stricter limits. Most consumer banking happens with licensed banks, not these entities.
Common Mistakes When Using Bank Codes
Confusing Bank Code with Branch Code
Hong Kong banks also use 3-digit branch codes. If someone gives you six digits, the first three are the bank code, the second three are the branch. But for most modern transfers (CHATS, FPS), you only need the bank code. Branch codes are mainly for internal routing or older systems.
Using SWIFT Instead of Bank Code
SWIFT codes are for international transfers. Bank codes are for domestic Hong Kong transfers. If you’re sending HKD within Hong Kong using CHATS or FPS, you need the bank code. If you’re sending from overseas, you need SWIFT. They’re different systems entirely.
Assuming All Codes Are Active
Some bank codes belong to banks that have closed, merged, or lost their license. Historical lists floating around online might include defunct codes. Always validate against current data. A code that worked five years ago might not work today.
Not Checking FPS Compatibility
Not every bank participates in Hong Kong’s Faster Payment System (FPS). Most major banks do, but smaller institutions or specialized lenders might not. If you need to send via FPS using a phone number or email, verify the recipient’s bank supports it.
When Bank Code Validation Isn’t Enough
A valid bank code doesn’t guarantee your transfer will succeed. The code only confirms the bank exists. It doesn’t verify the account number is correct, that the account is open, or that it can receive transfers.
For large transfers, always verify the account holder’s name. Most Hong Kong banks now show recipient names before you confirm a CHATS transfer. This is your final check. If the name doesn’t match who you expect, stop immediately.
Some accounts have receiving restrictions. Corporate accounts might only accept transfers from verified counterparties. Trust accounts have special rules. Investment accounts might not accept direct deposits. A valid bank code can’t tell you any of this.
Currency matters too. If you’re sending foreign currency, confirm the recipient’s account can hold that currency. Many Hong Kong bank accounts are HKD-only. Sending USD to an HKD-only account will trigger conversion at whatever rate the bank chooses, often unfavorable.
Who Needs Hong Kong Bank Codes?
Employers Running Payroll
If you’re paying employees in Hong Kong via CHATS autopay, you need their bank code and account number. One wrong digit means the payment bounces and the employee doesn’t get paid on time. Validate codes when employees submit their banking details.
Landlords and Property Managers
Rent collection in Hong Kong increasingly happens via standing instruction or FPS. Tenants provide their bank details for deposit refunds. Validate codes upfront to avoid problems when it’s time to return deposits.
Freelancers Receiving Payment
If you work with Hong Kong clients and receive payment via local bank transfer, give them your correct bank code. International clients sometimes confuse bank codes with SWIFT codes. Make it clear which code is for what purpose.
E-commerce Sellers
Online sellers in Hong Kong often collect payment via bank transfer. Displaying the correct bank code in payment instructions reduces failed payments and customer support queries.
Anyone Sending Large Amounts
The bigger the transfer, the more important validation becomes. Banks rarely reverse completed transfers, especially same-day RTGS transfers. If you send HK$100,000 to the wrong bank, recovering it is painful and slow.
What to Do If Your Bank Code Fails
Double-Check You’re Using a Bank Code
Make sure you didn’t enter a branch code, SWIFT code, or bank account number by mistake. Bank codes are exactly three digits. If what you have is longer or shorter, it’s not a bank code.
Get It Directly from the Bank
Don’t rely on third-party websites or old documents. Log into online banking and look for your bank’s official code in your account details. Every Hong Kong bank displays this clearly.
Call the Bank If Confused
If you can’t find the code or it fails validation, call the bank’s customer service. They can confirm the code instantly. Better to spend two minutes on a phone call than send money to the wrong place.
Ask the Recipient to Verify
If someone gave you a code that fails, ask them to check it again. People often mistype codes in WhatsApp or email. A screenshot of their banking app showing the code is more reliable than them typing it out.
Bank Codes vs Other Hong Kong Banking Numbers
Hong Kong’s banking system uses several different code formats, and mixing them up is the most common source of failed transfers.
Bank Code (3 digits): Identifies the bank. Used for CHATS, RTGS, and internal Hong Kong transfers. Example: 004 for HSBC.
Branch Code (3 digits): Identifies a specific branch within a bank. Less important now but still used for some transfer types. Example: 001 might be the main branch.
Account Number (varies): Your actual account number. Length varies by bank (typically 9-12 digits). Combined with bank code for transfers.
SWIFT/BIC Code (8-11 characters): For international transfers only. Includes letters and numbers. Example: HSBCHKHHHKH for HSBC Hong Kong.
FPS ID: Your mobile number or email registered with FPS. Alternative to using bank code and account number for casual transfers.
How Fast Are Transfers Using Bank Codes?
Transfer speed in Hong Kong depends on which system you use, not which bank code you’re sending to.
CHATS (Clearing House Automated Transfer System)
The standard for most transfers. Same-day settlement if submitted before cutoff (usually 5:30 PM on weekdays). Submit after cutoff and it processes next business day. Weekends and holidays delay processing.
FPS (Faster Payment System)
Real-time transfers 24/7, including weekends and holidays. Money arrives in seconds. Most banks support FPS now, but confirm both sender and receiver banks participate. FPS still uses bank codes internally even if you’re sending via phone number.
RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement)
For large transfers (typically over HK$1 million). Immediate settlement during business hours. More expensive than CHATS but guaranteed same-day completion if done before 6:30 PM on weekdays.
The bank code itself doesn’t affect speed. A transfer to bank code 004 (HSBC) processes at the same speed as one to bank code 128 (Fubon Bank). The transfer system (CHATS vs FPS vs RTGS) determines timing, not the destination bank.
Common Hong Kong Bank Codes Reference
| Bank Code | Bank Name | Type | FPS Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| 004 | HSBC | Licensed Bank | Yes |
| 009 | China Construction Bank | Licensed Bank | Yes |
| 012 | Bank of China | Licensed Bank | Yes |
| 015 | Bank of East Asia | Licensed Bank | Yes |
| 024 | Hang Seng Bank | Licensed Bank | Yes |
| 128 | Fubon Bank | Licensed Bank | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a bank code for international transfers?
No. Bank codes only work for domestic Hong Kong transfers (CHATS, FPS, RTGS). For international transfers, you need the bank’s SWIFT/BIC code. If someone overseas wants to send you money, give them your SWIFT code, not your bank code.
Does a valid bank code guarantee my transfer will work?
No. The bank code only confirms the bank exists. You still need the correct account number, and the receiving account must be active and able to accept transfers. Always verify the recipient’s full details before sending money.
What happens if I use the wrong bank code?
The transfer will likely fail immediately because the account number won’t exist at that bank. In rare cases, if the account number coincidentally exists at the wrong bank, the money might go to a stranger. That’s why verifying the recipient name is crucial.
Can two banks share the same code?
No. Every licensed bank in Hong Kong has a unique 3-digit code. The HKMA strictly controls code assignment. If two banks merged, one code gets retired and all accounts migrate to the surviving bank’s code.
Where do I find my bank code?
Check your online banking app or website. It’s usually in account details or settings. You can also find it on bank statements, deposit slips, or by calling customer service. Every bank displays it prominently because it’s needed for receiving transfers.
Is it safe to share my bank code?
Yes, for receiving payments. You need to give your bank code (and account number) to people who want to pay you. It’s like a routing number. However, never share it alongside your online banking password, PIN, or security questions.
Does my bank code change if I switch branches?
No. The bank code identifies the bank, not the branch. Your bank code stays the same regardless of which branch you opened the account at or which branch you use. Only the branch code (if used) would change.
Can I have multiple accounts with different bank codes?
Yes, if you have accounts at different banks. Each bank has its own code. If you have three accounts at three different banks, you have three different bank codes to remember.
Tip
Screenshot your banking app showing your bank code and account number together. Save it in a secure folder on your phone labeled “Bank Details.” When someone needs your payment info, you can share the screenshot instead of typing numbers and risking mistakes.