IBAN in the United Kingdom

To make an IBAN, banks combine local account details into one string of characters. This means you can calculate an IBAN using these account details.

What is the IBAN format in the United Kingdom ?

An IBAN (International Bank Account Number) is an internationally-agreed code made up of up to 34 letters and numbers that helps banks make sure that international transfers are processed correctly.

Each set of characters represents a different detail for your bank account. You can see the breakdown of this IBAN below.

What is the IBAN code in the United Kingdom?

IBAN in the United Kingdom consists of 22 characters:

  • 2 letter country code
  • 2 digit check number
  • 4 characters from the bank's bank code
  • 6 digit sort code for the bank branch
  • 8 digit code for the bank account number

Already have an IBAN code?

Check IBAN
IBAN example in the United Kingdom GB29NWBK60161331926819
IBAN in print format GB29 NWBK 6016 1331 9268 19
Country code GB
Check digits 29
Bank code NWBK
Sort code 601613
Bank account number 31926819

Do you need an IBAN in the United Kingdom?

Yes. If you’re making – or expecting to receive – an international money transfer to a bank account in the United Kingdom, then just a standard bank account number isn’t enough. If you want your money to arrive quickly and safely, you’ll usually need to give the bank a few extra details, such as an IBAN or SWIFT code.

Banks assign IBANs to each of their accounts to make sure that international transfers are processed correctly.

IBANs contain all of the country, bank, and account details you need to send or receive money internationally. This system is used throughout Europe, and also recognised in some areas of the Middle East, North Africa and the Caribbean.

Calculate IBAN

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 mid-market rate. Compare our rate and fee with Western Union, ICICI Bank, WorldRemit and more, and see the difference for yourself.

Sending 1,000.00 HKD withRecipient gets(Total after fees)Transfer feeExchange rate(1 HKD GBP)
WiseCheapest94.57 GBPSave up to 21.17 GBP11.73 HKD0.0956966
Hang Seng Bank88.79 GBP- 5.78 GBP65.00 HKD0.0949577
HSBC88.01 GBP- 6.56 GBP70.00 HKD0.0946342
PayPal87.57 GBP- 7.00 GBP38.99 HKD0.0911190
BEA 東亞銀行73.40 GBP- 21.17 GBP230.00 HKD0.0953220

We have a 4.3 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot

It's your money. You can trust us to get it where it needs to be, but don't take our word for it. Read our reviews at Trustpilot.com

It would be nice to a have some explanation form of the basic. wording to fill out when applying for a transfer.
teeman
Published 23 seconds ago

I have used Wise many times. Is a very efficient way of transferring money into other currencies. It works very well and the transfer fees are very re...
Jdsl
Published 31 minutes ago

I have a UK income but am resident in Spain. Having the ability to manage my affairs in £ and € is invaluable. Moving money around has always been qui...
Clifford Maddox
Published 53 minutes ago

A cheaper, faster way to send money abroad

FAQs