A SWIFT code is an alphanumeric code used to identify specific banks in the UK and around the world. It is also known as a SWIFTBIC code. When youre sending money to the United Kingdom, youll need to provide the generic SWIFT/BIC code for your recipients bank, as well as more specific personal information, such as your recipients full name, physical address, and bank account number. SWIFT codes are used for international wire transfers and currency exchange, and they are also used to identify the recipients bank network. When used together with other information like bank identifiers and account numbers, they can verify exactly where transferred money should be deposited.

In the UK, the SWIFT codes for banks are usually 8 or 11 characters long. An 11-digit code refers to a specific branch, while an 8-digit code (or one ending in XXX) refers to the banks head office. Some of the main banks in the UK that have SWIFT codes include Barclays Bank, Citibank, Halifax, HSBC Bank, Lloyds Bank, Monzo Bank, Nationwide Building Society, Natwest, Santander, The Royal Bank of Scotland, and TSB Bank.

If you want to receive an international payment to your Barclays UK account, for example, youll need to provide the SWIFT code BUKBGB22. Other banks will have their own unique SWIFT codes.

In summary, a SWIFT code is a code used to identify specific banks in the UK and around the world. It is necessary for international wire transfers and currency exchange.