When I first moved to Spain, I found that whenever my family sent me money or I needed to receive funds from another country, I was always asked for a code called SWIFT or BIC. I was a bit confused at first. I knew about my IBAN—that long account number starting with ES—but this SWIFT/BIC code was new to me. I’m sure many newcomers have had a similar experience, often while navigating the rules around Spanish foreign exchange controls. So today, let’s break it down. I’ve also compiled the codes for Spain’s main banks to make things easier for you.
What is a SWIFT/BIC Code?
Simply put, a SWIFT Code is like an international ID for a bank. When you make a cross-border transfer, banking systems worldwide use this code to identify the specific location and identity of the receiving bank. Think of it like a postal address for your money, ensuring it arrives at the right bank without any issues. A standard SWIFT code is typically 8 or 11 characters long and contains information about the bank, country, city, and branch.
How to Find Your Bank’s SWIFT Code?
Finding this code is actually quite simple. Here are a few common methods:
- Check Your Bank’s Website: Log in to your online banking portal. You can usually find the SWIFT code in your account details or on the international transfer page.
- Look at Your Bank Statement: Your physical or electronic monthly statements typically list the bank’s SWIFT/BIC code.
- Ask Your Bank Directly: The most straightforward method is to visit a branch or call customer service. Just tell them you need it for an international payment, and they will provide it.
- Use an Online Finder Tool: There are many websites that allow you to look up SWIFT codes by entering the bank’s name and country. However, it’s always best to use the official code provided by your bank to avoid errors.
SWIFT/BIC Codes for Major Spanish Banks
To make things easier, I’ve compiled the SWIFT codes for some of the most common banks in Spain. It’s worth noting that some banks may have slightly different codes for specific branches, but using the main branch’s code is usually sufficient as the system will route it correctly. Feel free to save the table below for future reference!
| Bank Name | SWIFT/BIC Code |
|---|
| Banco Santander | BSCHESMM |
| BBVA | BBVAESMM |
| CaixaBank | CAIXESBB |
| Banco de Sabadell | BSABESBB |
| Bankinter | BKBKESMM |
| ING Bank | INGDESMM |
One final reminder: when you provide your bank details to someone, you usually need to give both your IBAN and SWIFT/BIC code. The IBAN ensures the money goes into your specific account, while the SWIFT/BIC ensures it reaches the right bank first. Both must be correct for the transfer to succeed. I hope this post was helpful! If you need information on currency exchange in Spain or have codes for other banks to add, feel free to share them in the comments below!
