IBAN Guides & Articles
In-depth guides on international bank transfers, IBAN formats, and the banking systems behind them. Written for finance professionals, accountants, and anyone sending or receiving money across borders. Topics cover country-specific IBAN structures, SEPA rules, checksum validation, common transfer errors, and practical advice for working with banks in Europe and beyond.
Using Wise for International Transfers: An IBAN Guide
Wise (formerly TransferWise) uses IBANs for most international transfers. Here is how to use Wise with IBAN-based accounts and what to expect.
How IBAN Replaced Domestic Account Numbers in Europe
Before IBAN, every European country had its own incompatible account number system. The transition to IBAN standardised cross-border banking across an entire continent.
IBANs for Non-SEPA Countries: UAE, Israel, and More
Not all IBAN countries are in SEPA. The UAE, Israel, Pakistan, and 40+ others use IBAN format but are outside the SEPA payment zone.
What Happens When You Send Money to a Wrong IBAN?
Sending money to an incorrect IBAN can result in failed payments or — in rare cases — funds going to the wrong account. Here is what happens and what to do.
Greece IBAN Format Explained
Greek IBANs are 27 characters and include a 3-digit bank code, 4-digit branch code, and 16-digit account number.
Denmark IBAN Format Guide
Danish IBANs are 18 characters and include a 4-digit bank code and 10-digit account number. Denmark is a SEPA member but uses the krone, not the euro.
Norway IBAN Format: The Shortest IBAN in Europe
Norwegian IBANs are just 15 characters — the shortest of any IBAN country. They encode an 11-digit account number directly.
Sweden IBAN Format Explained
Swedish IBANs are 24 characters and use a unique clearing number plus account number system that differs from most other IBAN countries.
Portugal IBAN Format Guide
Portuguese IBANs are 25 characters and include a 4-digit bank code, 4-digit branch code, 11-digit account number, and 2 national check digits.
Poland IBAN Format: The Complete Reference
Polish IBANs are 28 characters — one of the longer formats. They include an 8-digit bank/branch code and 16-digit account number.
Austria IBAN Format Explained
Austrian IBANs are 20 characters and include a 5-digit bank code and 11-digit account number. Austria is a founding SEPA member.
Switzerland IBAN Format: Banking Precision
Swiss IBANs are 21 characters and include a 5-digit bank clearing number. Switzerland is not in the EU but is a SEPA member.