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Can you get an IBAN with Desjardins? A closer look
Receiving an international wire transfer should be straightforward. Many users encounter an unexpected barrier when a foreign bank or business insists on an IBAN for a transfer to Canada. This is a common point of confusion because Canada does not use the IBAN system.
This guide explains the correct details you must provide to receive funds successfully at your Desjardins branch. We've also explained how Wise simplifies these international payments by avoiding traditional wire complexities and offering transparent, lower-cost alternatives.
How can I receive international transfers at Desjardins?
To receive international wires, you must provide specific data that identifies your account and your financial institution. This includes your 5-digit transit number, the 3-digit institution number for Desjardins, and your specific account number. Additionally, you need the unique SWIFT/BIC code for your branch, which acts as an international identifier for the bank.
How to get an IBAN in Canada
If you need an IBAN for receiving or sending money (for example, within the EU’s SEPA system), you won’t be able to get one from Desjardins or any Canadian bank.
However, fintech services like Wise offer a simple solution with its multi-currency account. When you open a Wise account and access EUR account details, you’ll access your own personal IBAN, so you can receive SEPA transfers just like someone with a European bank account.
To learn more, check out this guide: How to get an IBAN in Canada
The Wise multi-currency account gives you local bank details in multiple currencies, including CAD, EUR, USD, GBP, and more, allowing you to receive payments from around the world with fewer fees and no need to open accounts in other countries.
If you’re with Desjardins, you’ll still be able to receive international payments, but you won’t get an IBAN. Instead, you’ll need to give the sender your SWIFT code, transit number, and account number. But keep in mind that this setup can lead to extra fees, delays, or failed payments when an IBAN is specifically required.
IBAN Availability – Desjardins vs Wise
| Feature | Desjardins | Wise EUR Account |
|---|---|---|
| IBAN Provided? | No – uses SWIFT codes only | Yes – personal EUR IBAN provided |
| Currency Account Type | Canadian account (primarily CAD) | Multi-currency account that lets you hold, spend and receive 40+ currencies |
| Receiving SEPA Transfers? | No – cannot directly receive via SEPA/IBAN | Yes – receive Euro transfers via SEPA directly |
| Receiving Bank Fees | 8-35 CAD inbound wire fee, depending on the transfer route, amount and account type2 | Free for most domestic transfers when using local account details for your Wise accountt3 |
Conclusion
Desjardins doesn’t issue IBANs because Canadian banks don’t use them. While that works for local payments, it can cause issues when you’re dealing with international transfers from countries that require an IBAN, like those in the EU.
With Wise, you can open a multi-currency account in minutes and get a real IBAN for euros. It’s a flexible, affordable way to receive international payments in Canada without the usual pricey bank fees or complications.
Sources:
Sources verified on 15 June 2026
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
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