Is a SWIFT code the same for all branches?

Not every bank branch has a SWIFT code, which means you can usually use the code for the bank’s head office. Find your SWIFT code here.

Do I need an IBAN number as well?

It depends on the country you're sending money to. In the Eurozone, you'll always need an IBAN and a SWIFT/BIC code. Banks in the USA use SWIFT codes, but they don't use IBANs. It's the same in New Zealand too. More on IBAN numbers .

NOVRCHBS017

NOVARTIS AG BIC / Swift code details

NOVARTIS AG, VIA BALESTRA, LOCARNO, Switzerland

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So what do these letters and numbers mean?

A SWIFT code — sometimes also called a SWIFT number — is a standard format for Business Identifier Codes (BIC). Banks and financial institutions use them to identify themselves globally. It says who and where they are — a sort of international bank code or ID.

These codes are used when transferring money between banks, particularly for international money transfers or SEPA payments. Banks also use these codes to exchange messages between each other.

SWIFT:

NOVARTIS AG

NOVR Bank code

CH Country code

BS Location code

017 Branch code

This SWIFT code is for the NOVARTIS AG

SWIFT code	NOVRCHBS017
Swift code (8 characters)	NOVRCHBS
Branch name	NOVARTIS AG
Branch address	VIA BALESTRA
Branch code	017
Bank name	NOVARTIS AG
City	LOCARNO
Country	Switzerland

NOVARTIS AG SWIFT Code Details

A SWIFT/BIC is an 8-11 character code that identifies your country, city, bank, and branch.

Bank code A-Z 4 letters representing the bank. It usually looks like a shortened version of that bank's name.
Country code A-Z 2 letters representing the country the bank is in.
Location code 0-9 A-Z 2 characters made up of letters or numbers. It says where that bank's head office is.
Branch Code 0-9 A-Z 3 digits specifying a particular branch. 'XXX' represents the bank’s head office.

Compare prices for sending money abroad

Banks and other transfer services have a dirty little secret. They add hidden markups to their exchange rates - charging you more without your knowledge. And if they have a fee, they charge you twice.

Wise never hides fees in the exchange rate. We give you the real rate, independently provided by Reuters. Compare our rate and fee with Western Union, ICICI Bank, WorldRemit and more, and see the difference for yourself.

Sending 1,000.00 GBP with	Recipient gets(Total after fees)	Transfer fee	Exchange rate(1 GBP → CHF)
Cheapest	1,104.64 CHFSave up to 46.59 CHF	4.82 GBP	1.10999
	1,094.57 CHF-10.07 CHF	0.00 GBP	1.09457
	1,094.28 CHF-10.36 CHF	9.50 GBP	1.10478
	1,079.36 CHF-25.28 CHF	0.00 GBP	1.07936
	1,059.35 CHF-45.29 CHF	2.99 GBP	1.06252

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Always confirm the details with your recipient

When sending or receiving money, always check the SWIFT code with your recipient or bank.

If you think you've used the wrong SWIFT code to send money, you should get in contact with your bank right away. They may be able to cancel the transaction. If it's too late to cancel, you might have to contact the recipient yourself and request that they return your money.

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Your questions, answered

A SWIFT code is a set of 8 or 11 digits that represents a bank branch. You’ll need to use one when sending money internationally. Find your SWIFT code here.

Disclaimer

Wise has not carried out any enquiries on the legal standing of any of the banks and financial institutions listed.

Wise does not take responsibility or have any liability to you or anyone for any risks that may be associated with these banks or financial institutions or the jurisdictions they operate in, nor any transactions that you or any other person may undertake with these organisations. Wise may not provide services in the jurisdiction in question. For a list of our supported countries, please see here.