Check your IBAN
Finance & Funding
Key learnings
- The International Banking Account Number (IBAN) is crucial for identifying individual bank accounts in cross-border transactions, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
- The IBAN consists of a two-letter country code, check digits, and up to 30 alphanumeric characters representing the bank account number, varying by country.
- While both IBAN and SWIFT/BIC are used in international transfers, IBAN identifies individual accounts, while SWIFT/BIC identifies the financial institutions involved.
- You can locate your IBAN through online banking, bank statements, or by contacting your bank directly.
When making international transfers, the IBAN (International Banking Account Number) plays a crucial role in identifying individual bank accounts. Originally developed for European banks, it’s now used in over 85 countries. Though it doesn't replace a traditional account number, IBAN adds key information to ensure secure and efficient transactions.
In this guide by UMi partner Convera, you'll learn about IBAN formats, how it differs from SWIFT/BIC codes, and how to find and verify your IBAN to avoid errors.
IBAN — short for International Banking Account Number and sometimes referred to as IBAN code, IBAN key, or IBAN number — is used to identify an individual bank account participating in a cross-border transaction.
While IBAN does not replace an actual banking account number, it provides supplemental information that helps track payments and process foreign exchange (FX) transfers. An IBAN number is also not the same as a routing number.
IBAN was originally developed for European nations in need of a common standard to identify bank accounts, but it is now recognised in over 85 countries. If you’re making an international transfer — especially if either party’s bank is based in Europe — you may be asked to provide an IBAN.
Understanding IBAN formats
An IBAN can contain up to 34 characters, with the exact length varying from country to country.
The general format is as follows:
- Two-letter country code, such as DE (Germany), GB (United Kingdom), or FR (France)
- Two check digits
- Up to 30 alphanumeric characters representing the basic bank account number (BBAN)
A complete IBAN for a German account holder looks like this: DE02202208000051066366
A complete IBAN for a UK account holder looks like this: GB68TRWI23147094939279
IBAN vs. SWIFT/BIC codes
You might see IBAN and SWIFT/BIC codes mentioned alongside one another and, in some instances, a bank may require each standard to complete a transfer. However, IBAN and SWIFT don’t represent the same information. IBAN identifies individual accounts and SWIFT identifies a specific financial institution.
How to check your IBAN
Usually, you can find your IBAN via your online banking account or by reviewing bank statements. In some cases, it may appear on your bank card. When in doubt, contact your bank and they will provide you with the correct number.
You should always double check that you have the correct IBAN before making an international transfer. The wrong code could result in your money being sent to an unknown recipient, while using a code with the incorrect format could leave you paying added fees even if the transfer isn’t processed.
Next steps...
- Before making an international payment, ensure you have the correct IBAN for your country by visiting Convera’s website.
- Double-check all details, including IBAN and SWIFT/BIC codes, to avoid delays, misrouted funds, or unnecessary fees.
- Get a free 30-minute FX health check with Convera to tailor and adapt your strategy based on market shifts.