Canada Bank SWIFT/BIC Codes
A SWIFT code (also called a BIC code) is an alphanumeric code used to identify specific banks in Canada and around the world. An important part of international money transfers, SWIFT codes are often used for international wire transfers and currency exchange.
SWIFT codes are also used to identify the recipient’s bank network, and when used together with other information like bank identifiers and account numbers, they can verify exactly where transferred money should be deposited. Entering a SWIFT code allows for the faster and easier exchange and deposit of currency around the world.
When you're sending money to Canada, you'll need to provide the generic SWIFT/BIC code for your recipient's bank, as well as the bank's transit number and institution number (two bank codes unique to Canadian banks). In addition, you'll also need to provide more specific personal information, such as:
- Your recipient's full name;
- Your recipient's physical address;
- Your recipient's bank account number.
SWIFT Transfers: Beware The Hidden Costs
If you're looking for information about Canadian bank SWIFT/BIC codes, then you're probably either:
- sending money to Canada from abroad, or
- receiving money to your US-based account from abroad.
If so, then you should beware of hidden bank fees and consider using a digital provider to save money instead. To see why we recommend most people avoid the bank for international SWIFT transfers, see the two use cases below:
1 — Sending an International Transfer to Canada
If you're sending money internationally to a Canadian bank account through your local bank overseas, the transaction will likely be much pricier than it ought to be. —
This is because fixed international bank transfer fees, bad exchange rates, and correspondent banking fees can stack up very quickly. At Monito, we analyzed the cost of sending money with around 50 major banks in eight countries around the world, and we can confidently say that we don't recommend using your bank to send money to Canada.
Additionally, bank transfers via the SWIFT network tend to take quite long (between one and five business days on average), meaning they're not a good option if you want to make a speedy transfer.
Fortunately for you, much smarter alternatives exist. Using a digital money transfer provider, not only could you up to 95% in fees compared to the bank, but you'll also be able to send money more quickly to your beneficiary's account in Canada. Compare now on Monito's real-time comparison engine to find the cheapest way to send to any bank account in Canada:
Compare better ways to send money to a bank in Canada:
2 — Receiving an International Transfer in Canada
Are you expecting a transfer from abroad, and is the sender asking you to provide a SWIFT/BIC code for your bank in Canada? Then you'll likely receive less than you should because of the high international bank transfer fees and alarming exchange rates that the senders' bank usually applies.
For example, a typical foreign bank will charge between 5% and 10% in total fees for sending a $1,000 equivalent to Canada. With costs like this, you'd quickly receive $50 to $100 less per $1,000 sent than you would've had transferred at the real, mid-market exchange rate.
Luckily, a better alternative exists to save money when receiving money in Canada from abroad. It's called the Wise Account, and it's available for individuals and businesses. Using a Wise Account (available in Canada), you'll get local bank account details for 10 different currencies. Moreover, you'll be able to send, hold, spend, and receive US dollars and other foreign currency at the mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees. This means you'll be able to use Wise to receive money like a local in Canada (and other currencies), making it an excellent online account.
Open your Wise account ❯
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FAQ About Canada Bank SWIFT Codes
What is a SWIFT code?
A SWIFT code is an alphanumeric code to identify specific banks around the world. It is a type of Bank Identification Code (BIC), and the two terms are often used interchangeably. The SWIFT code, or a variation on it, is an important part of international money transfers. SWIFT codes are often used for international wire transfers and currency exchanges. Learn more about SWIFT codes in our glossary.
Where do I find my bank's SWIFT code?
Normally, the fastest and easiest way to find your bank's SWIFT code is to Google it. Banks themselves often don't make this information all too accessible, but the information is almost always readily available through a quick search online.
Do all bank branches have the same SWIFT/BIC code?
Typically, most banks have the same SWIFT/BIC code across all branches. However, this isn't always the case, and some banks have different SWIFT/BIC codes by individual branch. It's for this reason that it's always a good idea to double-check your SWIFT/BIC code in advance of a money transfer.
What does XXX stand for in a SWIFT/BIC code?
The last three digits of a SWIFT/BIC code represent a specific bank branch. However, when these digits are XXX, this represents that the branch in question is the bank's head office. The last three digits are optional. If omitted, it is assumed to refer to the head office of the bank.
Do Canadian bank SWIFT/BIC codes differ by branch?
Yes, many Canadian bank SWIFT/BIC codes differ by branch (and also service type). We therefore recommend double-checking to make sure your transfer is going to the right place.
