IBAN
IBAN in United Kingdom
A United Kingdom IBAN has 22 characters. See its structure field by field, a valid example, and check or calculate an IBAN.
At a glance
- Length
- 22 characters
- Starts with
- GB
- Example (electronic)
- GB29NWBK60161331926819
- Example (print)
- GB29 NWBK 6016 1331 9268 19
- SEPA
- Yes — euro transfers by SEPA
- Bank code
- 4 letters, positions 5–8
Structure, field by field
GB29NWBK60161331926819
| Positions | Field | Length | Type | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | Country code | 2 | letters | GB |
| 3–4 | Check digits | 2 | digits | 29 |
| 5–8 | Bank code | 4 | letters | NWBK |
| 9–14 | Sort code | 6 | digits | 601613 |
| 15–22 | Account number | 8 | digits | 31926819 |
Calculate a United Kingdom IBAN
Where to find it
On the account holder’s bank statement, in their online or mobile banking under account details, or on the invoice of a supplier who wants to be paid by transfer. If you only have the bank code and account number, ask the bank for the IBAN (or use the calculator above where it is offered), then confirm it with the beneficiary.
Questions
- How many characters is a United Kingdom IBAN?
- 22, always starting with GB. In print it is written in groups of four: GB29 NWBK 6016 1331 9268 19.
- Can I pay a United Kingdom IBAN by SEPA?
- Yes, in euro. United Kingdom is in the SEPA area, so a euro transfer to this IBAN needs no SWIFT code and usually arrives the same or next business day.
- Does a valid IBAN mean the account exists?
- No. The check digits prove the number is well-formed, which catches almost every typo. Only the beneficiary’s bank can confirm the account is open and in their name.
Paying an IBAN in United Kingdom?
See the fee and the exchange rate before you confirm, and the day the money should arrive.
When will it arrive?