Check a BIC or SWIFT code
BIC / SWIFT Code Checker
Check whether a BIC or SWIFT code follows the 8- or 11-character ISO 9362 structure. The check runs only in your browser.
Check BIC structure
How a BIC is structured
A BIC8 contains three parts; BIC11 adds a three-character branch identifier.
- Positions 1–4: business party prefix, using letters or digits.
- Positions 5–6: two-letter country-code positions.
- Positions 7–8: business party suffix, using letters or digits.
- Positions 9–11: optional branch identifier, using letters or digits.
Frequently asked questions
Is a BIC the same as a SWIFT code?
SWIFT code is the common user-facing name for a BIC. BIC technically means Business Identifier Code.
What is the difference between BIC8 and BIC11?
BIC8 identifies a business party. BIC11 supplements it with a three-character branch, location, department, service, or unit identifier.
What does this checker validate?
It checks the total length and the permitted character type in each BIC position.
Is the code sent to a server?
No. Normalization and structure checking run locally in your browser.
Related IBAN tools
Source information
The structure rules follow ISO 9362:2022 as described by Swift.