Media type · Bank identifier
BIC / SWIFT code
An identifier for a bank in international payments.
Key facts
| What | Bank identifier |
|---|---|
| Length | 8 or 11 characters |
| Used with | IBAN or account number |
| Needed for | International wires |
| Check | With the bank |
Bank, not account
The BIC tells the network which institution to route to; the account number tells the bank which customer. Both are needed and both must be correct.
Frequently asked questions
Is BIC the same as SWIFT?
The terms are used interchangeably for the same code.
Where do I find it?
On the bank statement or the bank's website.