What is a SWIFT Code?
A SWIFT code (also called a BIC — Bank Identifier Code) is a unique 8 to 11-character alphanumeric code used to identify banks and financial institutions worldwide during international wire transfers. When you send money from abroad to a Pakistani bank account, the sending bank uses the SWIFT code to route your funds to the correct bank.
SWIFT stands for Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, a global network that connects more than 11,000 financial institutions in over 200 countries.
MEZN
Bank Code
4 letters — identifies the bank
PK
Country Code
2 letters — country (PK = Pakistan)
KA
Location Code
2 chars — city or region
XXX
Branch Code
3 chars — optional branch identifier
If the SWIFT code has only 8 characters (no branch code), it refers to the bank's head office and is acceptable for most international transfers. The 3-letter suffix XXX typically denotes the head office as well.
How to Use a Pakistani Bank SWIFT Code for International Transfers
When sending money to Pakistan from abroad — whether from the UK, USA, UAE, Canada, Australia or anywhere else — you will typically need to provide the following information to your bank or money transfer service:
1. Recipient's Full Name — exactly as it appears on their bank account.
2. Recipient's IBAN — Pakistan uses a 24-character IBAN format (e.g. PK36MEZN0001010123456789).
3. Bank SWIFT / BIC Code — use the 8-character head office code (e.g. MEZNPKKA) unless you know the specific branch code.
4. Bank Name and Address — the full name and address of the Pakistani bank's head office.
5. Purpose of Transfer — you may be asked to declare whether this is family remittance, business payment, etc.
Most international transfers to Pakistan are processed within 1–3 business days. Platforms like Wise, Remitly, Western Union, and local bank wire services all use SWIFT codes to route Pakistani transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SWIFT codes for Pakistani banks.
What is a SWIFT code and how is it different from an IBAN?
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A SWIFT code identifies the bank itself — it tells the international banking system which bank the money should go to. An IBAN (International Bank Account Number) identifies a specific account within that bank. For transfers to Pakistan, you typically need both: the SWIFT code for the bank and the IBAN for the individual account. Pakistan's IBAN is 24 characters long and starts with "PK".
What is the SWIFT code of Meezan Bank?
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The primary SWIFT code for Meezan Bank (Pakistan's largest Islamic bank) is MEZNPKKA for the head office. With the branch suffix, it becomes MEZNPKKAXXX. For specific branches in Lahore, Islamabad, or Faisalabad, see the Meezan Bank card above. Always use MEZNPKKA if you are unsure which branch your recipient is at.
What is the SWIFT code of HBL (Habib Bank)?
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The HBL SWIFT code is HABBPKKA (head office Karachi). HBL is one of Pakistan's oldest and largest banks with a massive international presence. For the full 11-character version, use HABBPKKAXXX. HBL also has overseas branches in the UAE, UK, USA, and other countries, each with their own unique SWIFT codes.
What is the SWIFT code of UBL?
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UBL's (United Bank Limited) SWIFT code for Pakistan is UNILPKKA. For the full format including branch identifier: UNILPKKAXXX. UBL has a strong remittance network and is widely used for receiving international wire transfers from the UAE, UK, USA, and Saudi Arabia.
Can I use an 8-character SWIFT code instead of 11 characters?
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Yes. An 8-character SWIFT code (e.g. MEZNPKKA) automatically routes to the bank's head office and is accepted by virtually all banks worldwide. The 3-character branch suffix (e.g. XXX or LHE) is optional. If you don't know the specific branch code, always use the 8-character version — the receiving bank will handle internal routing.
Does SadaPay or NayaPay have a SWIFT code?
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SadaPay and NayaPay are Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs) licensed by the State Bank of Pakistan. They do have SWIFT codes, but these are subject to change as both platforms continue to evolve. We strongly recommend verifying your SWIFT code directly in the SadaPay or NayaPay mobile app under "Account Details" or "Receive Money" before initiating any international transfer.
What is the format of Pakistan's IBAN?
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Pakistan's IBAN consists of 24 characters in this format: PK + 2 check digits + 4-letter bank code + 16-digit account number. Example: PK36MEZN0001010123456789. You can obtain your IBAN from your bank statement, internet banking portal, or by visiting any branch. Most Pakistani banks now display IBANs on debit/credit cards and mobile banking apps.
How long does an international SWIFT transfer to Pakistan take?
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Standard SWIFT wire transfers to Pakistani banks typically take 1–5 business days depending on the sending bank, intermediary banks, and any compliance checks. Remittance services like Wise, Remitly, or WorldRemit that use local payment rails may deliver funds within hours or the same business day. Delays can occur due to SBP compliance requirements, public holidays, or incorrect details.