Do you need a routing number for an international transfer?

Sending an international money transfer can seem complicated because it involves different codes, numbers, and acronyms. One term that often comes up is "routing number." But do you need a routing number for an international wire transfer?

The short answer is typically, no. But sometimes you might. Let's unpack this.

We’ll also introduce how Wise can simplify international money transfers. It's fast, easy, and secure.

What is a routing number?

A routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies US banks in domestic transactions. It's a unique number that helps direct money to the right financial institution.

You'll definitely need an ABA routing number to make domestic transfers. But what happens when you need to send money internationally?

What information is needed for an international wire transfer?

When you send money internationally, you'll need to provide important information to make sure your money gets to its destination.

Here's what you typically need:

• Recipient's full name and address
• Recipient's bank account number or IBAN (International Bank Account Number)
• Recipient's bank name and address
• SWIFT code or BIC (Bank Identifier Code) of the recipient's bank
• The amount you're sending and the currency
• The purpose of the transfer (required for some countries depending on international wire transfer regulations)

As you can see, a wire transfer routing number isn't on this list. But sometimes there are situations where you might still need it:

• Sending money from a US bank: If you're sending the transfer from a US bank account, you may need to give your bank's routing number and its SWIFT code. This helps identify your bank within the US system before sending the funds abroad

• Transfers to certain countries: Some countries may need a routing number for incoming international transfers. For example, transfers to Canada might require a routing transit number

• Intermediary bank requirements: Sometimes, an intermediary bank (a bank that acts as a middleman in international transfers) may require the routing number of the sending bank

• Specific bank policies: Some banks may have policies that require routing numbers for all outgoing transfers, including international ones

• Certain transfer methods: For example, ACH transfers to foreign banks with US branches might need a routing number

Make sure to check with your bank to learn about its requirements for international wire transfers.

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Do you need a routing number if you have a SWIFT code?

A SWIFT code is basically an international routing number. Financial institutions use them to identify each other globally.

For most international transfers, a SWIFT code is more important than a routing number. Most of the time, a SWIFT code is all you need.

But sometimes, when you're sending wire transfers from a US bank, you might need to provide both your bank routing number and its SWIFT code.

The routing number identifies your bank in the US system before your funds travel internationally.

SWIFT code vs routing number

Are you wondering, "Is a SWIFT code the same as a routing number?". The answer is no, a SWIFT code and a routing number are two different things.

To clarify the difference:

SWIFT codes and routing numbers are used for similar purposes, but they're not interchangeable. They both help your funds get to the correct destination but in different types of transactions.

How do I find my bank’s routing number?

If you need your bank's routing number for an international wire transfer, it's usually very easy to find.

It’s often listed with your account information when you log into your online banking. You can also contact your bank directly and they can provide this information.

Sometimes, different branches of the same bank have different routing numbers, so always double-check your information before sending your wire transfer.

What happens if I use the wrong routing number?

There are a few problems that can come up if you use the wrong ABA routing number:

• Your transfer could be delayed because the receiving bank won't know where to deposit the funds
• The transfer might be rejected and returned to your account - this often comes with fees
• In rare cases, the funds could be deposited into the wrong account and you'll have to work with both banks to retrieve your money

To avoid complications, always double-check all details before confirming your transfer.

In most cases, you don't need a routing number for an international wire transfer. The SWIFT code is typically the most important identifier when you're sending money abroad.

That said, you might still need your bank's routing number for some international transfers, so it's convenient to have it on hand.

Wise makes it easy to send high-speed, low-cost international money transfers. It's simple and secure, with over half of our transfers getting there in under 20 seconds.

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