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.
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.
Belgium IBAN Format Guide
Belgian IBANs are 16 characters — among the shortest in Europe. They encode a 3-digit bank code and a 7-digit account number with 2 national check digits.
Netherlands IBAN Format: Everything You Need to Know
Dutch IBANs are 18 characters — one of the shorter formats in Europe. They include a 4-letter bank code and 10-digit account number.
Italy IBAN Format: The Complete Guide
Italian IBANs are 27 characters and include a 1-character CIN code, 5-digit ABI bank code, 5-digit CAB branch code, and 12-character account number.