A SWIFT code is a standard format of Bank Identifier Code (BIC) used to specify a particular bank or branch. Banks use these codes when transferring money between banks, particularly for international wire transfers. Banks also use these codes for exchanging messages between them.
A SWIFT code is a unique identification code for a bank. It's used by financial institutions to ensure safe and secure money transfers. A SWIFT code has 8 or 11 characters, depending on the type of bank it references. All 11 digit codes refer to specific branches, while 8 digit codes (or those ending in 'XXX') refer to the head or primary office
Where an 8-digit code is given, it may be assumed that it refers to the primary office.