Check a BIC or SWIFT code format and find bank details when the bank is supported by our database.
A BIC, also called a SWIFT code, identifies a financial institution. This checker validates the code length and structure and explains its individual parts.
The BIC identifies the bank, while the IBAN structures a specific account. Use our IBAN checker as well when reviewing payment details before a transfer.
A formally valid BIC does not confirm that it is currently active or that a particular account exists.
Often, yes. An IBAN contains country and bank information, so a bank directory can use it to resolve a BIC. Our IBAN checker displays the BIC when bank details are available for the country and institution.
The two identifiers still have different purposes: the IBAN points to an account, while the BIC points to the financial institution. A BIC alone cannot identify a specific account.
For most payment forms, BIC and SWIFT code mean the same bank identifier. BIC is the formal term from ISO 9362, while SWIFT refers to the network and organization historically associated with the code.
This free validator checks the code format and can explain its structure. It does not replace a bank’s confirmation that a code is active or that a payment will be accepted.
The first four letters identify the institution.
Two letters identify the bank’s country.
Two characters identify the location or region.
Three optional characters identify a branch or unit.
In payment workflows, BIC and SWIFT code usually refer to the same eight- or eleven-character bank identifier.
No. It checks the code format and displays available bank details. It does not confirm account ownership or account existence.
The bank lookup currently covers Germany and Austria. For other countries, the code is checked formally but is not resolved through a worldwide bank directory.
An 8-character BIC identifies the institution and its location. An 11-character BIC adds a three-character branch identifier. The branch code XXX is commonly used for a primary office or when no specific branch is given.
You can usually find it on bank account documents, online banking payment details, or the recipient’s official banking instructions. If you already have an IBAN, our IBAN checker may show the BIC when the bank is supported.