Anyone familiar with banking might have come across the terms SWIFT code and IFSC code. But not many know what it means or its features. Are these codes the same? Read on to find more about both codes, what they stand for, and how crucial they are to banking.
The SWIFT code and IFSC code are alphanumeric codes used in banking. Both deal with ensuring the security of financial transactions and identifying financial institutions. To learn the differences between the two codes, see below:
A SWIFT code is a unique code to identify banks worldwide. It is to ensure secure and smooth communication between the banks during international transactions. SWIFT codes are also known as the Bank Identifier Code (BIC), an alphanumeric code used by numerous countries worldwide. This allows you to find the accurate bank where the transfer is to take place and make sure that the transaction is safely conducted.
A SWIFT code consists of 8 to 11 characters that include letters and numbers. To identify a SWIFT code, you need to understand what the numbers and letters signify. Here is an example of a SWIFT code:
BBBB-CC-DD-456
The first four letters denote the abbreviation of the bank’s name. The next two letters signify the country code of the bank location. The next two letters represent the location code of the bank headquarters. The last three numbers signify the branch code where the transaction is meant to take place.
To find the SWIFT code, you can check the bank documents or account details from your online banking profile. Another way to find a SWIFT code is to use the digital SWIFT search tool by entering your bank details.
The SWIFT code is an important part of finance worldwide. The benefits of SWIFT code are many. The major advantage of SWIFT code is that it makes international money transfers safe and secure. It ensures the transactions are done accurately without any errors. It also speeds up the transaction, making it convenient for users.
An IFSC code is the Indian Financial System Code, which is used to identify bank branches within India. The code makes the transactions among Indian branches convenient and secure. It eliminates potential risks while transferring money across India. IFSC codes are a mandatory requirement in fund transfers in India. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) uses IFSC codes for electronic fund transfer within the country.
An IFSC code consists of eight to eleven characters that indicate certain identifying factors. Given below is an example of an IFSC code:
BBBB-456789
Similar to the SWIFT code, the first four letters of the IFSC code signify the name of the bank in abbreviation. The last six numbers denote the branch code where the transaction is to take place.
To find the IFSC code, you can check your bank documents, such as passbooks and checks, or your online banking profile. If you still can't find it, you can visit your branch and obtain the code.
IFSC codes play a crucial role in banking. It is primarily concerned with the security of domestic money transactions in India. The unique code ensures that the money reaches the right account and that there is no scope for errors or fraud. It also makes transactions easy and faster. IFSC codes are needed for all kinds of online money transfers, which makes them an important part of money transfer.
The major difference between the SWIFT code and the IFSC code is that the SWIFT code is used for international transactions and the IFSC code for domestic transactions.
You can easily find your bank’s IFSC code in your passbook, chequebook, or by checking your online banking profile.
Most banks that do international transactions have SWIFT codes. However, small banks sometimes may not have SWIFT codes.
IFSC codes are integral to banking in India. It enables secure and accurate transactions, which are also quick.
Yes, an IFSC code is needed for most transactions in India, such as RTGS, NEFT, and IMPS.
Credit Card:
Credit Score:
Personal Loan:
Home Loan:
Fixed Deposit:
Copyright © 2025 BankBazaar.com.