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BEFORE THE PAYMENT, CHECK THE DETAILS

Have a code?
Take a closer look.

Check its structure and find the institution, location and branch details in one place.

Enter 8 or 11 characters. We check the format and look for a match in the reference directory.

Reference data: ListBase.org · Release · Sources & coverage

READING A SWIFT / BIC

Small code. Specific parts.

This example, MAHBINBBIFP, is listed for Bank of Maharashtra in Pune, India. See how its characters identify the institution, country, location and branch.

MAHBInstitution4 letters or numbers
INCountry2 letters
BBLocation suffix2 letters or numbers
IFPBranch3 letters or numbers

The location suffix does not spell out a city. The city shown in a result comes from the directory record.

GOOD TO KNOW

SWIFT code questions,
answered.

What is a SWIFT code, and is it the same as a BIC?

BIC means Business Identifier Code. “SWIFT code” is a common name for the same identifier. A BIC identifies an institution, and sometimes a particular branch or department. It does not identify your individual account. BICs can also identify non-financial organisations.

Why are some codes 8 characters and others 11?

The first eight characters identify the institution and its country and location suffix. An optional three-character suffix identifies a branch or department. XXX is used for the primary office representation of an eight-character BIC. The branch suffix distinguishes offices or departments within the same institution.

What does the SWIFT checker check?

It checks the 8- or 11-character BIC structure and searches the directory for the institution, country, city and branch details.

How is a SWIFT code different from an IBAN?

A SWIFT/BIC identifies an institution or branch. An IBAN identifies an individual account using a country-specific international format.

How can I search without a complete code?

Use the finder to choose a country, then narrow the results by bank and city. Open a branch record to see and copy its full SWIFT/BIC.

Where can I find Ostro’s available payment options?

Your Ostro workspace shows the receiving details and payout options available to your account. Visit the Help Center for country eligibility and supported routes.

THE DETAILS, EXPLAINED

A little context goes a long way.

01 / PAYMENT GUIDES

IBAN, SWIFT, and routing numbers

Different identifiers. Different jobs. Learn which details belong in which field.

02 / PAYMENT GUIDES

SEPA or SWIFT?

Understand the difference between a euro payment scheme and a global messaging network.

03 / PAYMENT GUIDES

Follow a missing transfer

The references and questions that can help your bank investigate.