Universal Branch Codes for Major South African Banks

Universal branch codes are six-digit identifiers that simplify interbank transactions in South Africa by representing a bank’s entire network. Essential for EFT payments, online banking, and salary deposits, these codes streamline processes but may vary by account type. This guide covers key codes, usage, and best practices for major banks as of 2025.

South African Banking

Table of Contents

Understanding Universal Branch Codes

Universal branch codes in South Africa are six-digit identifiers that simplify interbank transactions by representing a bank’s entire network rather than individual branches. They are essential for EFT payments, online banking, and salary deposits. For instance, when making a payment, you typically need the recipient’s account number, bank name, and this universal code.

South Africa’s banking landscape includes a mix of traditional giants, digital newcomers, and international players, each with their assigned codes. Major banks like ABSA, FNB, Standard Bank, Nedbank, and Capitec dominate the market, serving millions of customers. Emerging banks like Discovery Bank and TymeBank reflect the rise of fintech, offering codes tailored to app-based banking.

International and specialist banks also operate in South Africa, often with codes that facilitate cross-border activities. For instance, Citibank uses 350005, and HSBC employs 587000, catering to expatriates and businesses with global ties. These codes integrate with SWIFT codes for international wires, ensuring compliance with global regulations.

How to Find and Use Them

You can locate these codes on bank statements, official websites, or through customer support. To use one, enter it during an online transfer alongside the account details. Always double-check for accuracy to avoid delays or errors, and note that some banks may have account-specific variations (e.g., Nedbank’s cheque vs. savings accounts).

Steps to Use a Universal Branch Code

  1. Confirm the Code: Check the bank’s official website or statement.
  2. Enter Details: Input the code, recipient’s account number, and bank name in your banking app.
  3. Verify and Send: Review for errors and complete the EFT with two-factor authentication.
  4. Monitor the Transaction: Track the transfer status in your account.

For international transfers, pair the branch code with the SWIFT code and IBAN where applicable.

Important Notes

  • Stability: While generally stable, mergers (like Mercantile Bank with Capitec) or updates can affect codes.
  • Verification: Always verify with the bank, as codes can vary by account type.
  • Security: Use secure channels and monitor accounts post-transfer to prevent fraud.

These codes are regulated by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to ensure efficient EFTs and reduce errors in fund routing.

Universal Branch Codes Table

Below is a compiled table of universal branch codes for banks operating in South Africa, including major domestic banks, digital banks, and international entities. Codes may vary by account type, and it’s advisable to confirm with the bank for the latest information. Where available, corresponding SWIFT codes are included.

Bank Name Universal Branch Code SWIFT Code (if available) Notes
ABN AMRO BANK 740000 – International bank; verify for current use.
ABSA Bank Limited 632005 ABSAZAJJXXX Widely used for EFTs; part of Barclays Africa Group.
African Bank Limited 430000 AFRCZAJJXXX Focuses on retail banking.
Albaraka Bank 800000 – Islamic banking specialist.
Bank of Athens (now Grobank) 410105 / 410506 – Variations noted; confirm post-merger.
Bank Zero 888000 – Digital bank.
Barclays Bank 590000 – Legacy code; now integrated with ABSA.
Bidvest Bank Limited 462005 BIDBZAJJXXX Confirmed on official site; used for business banking.
BNP Paribas SA 688000 – French international bank.
Capitec Bank Limited 470010 CABLZAJJXXX Popular for low-cost banking.
Citibank 350005 – U.S.-based; for corporate clients.
Discovery Bank Limited 679000 DISCZAJJ Digital-first; confirmed in official docs.
Finbond Mutual Bank 589000 – Mutual bank focused on savings.
First National Bank (FNB) 250655 FIRNZAJJ Subsidiary of FirstRand.
FirstRand Bank 250655 FIRNZAJJRSL Shares code with FNB.
Grindrod Bank Limited 223626 GRIDZAJJXXX Specialist in trade finance.
Hollard Bank 585001 – Insurance-linked banking.
HSBC Bank 587000 – Global bank with SA presence.
Investec Bank Limited 580105 IVESZAJJXXX Private banking focus.
J.P. Morgan Chase Bank 432000 – Investment banking.
Mercantile Bank Limited 450105 / 450905 LISAZAJJXXX Now part of Capitec; variations in sources.
NBS 720026 – Legacy or specialist code.
Nedbank Limited 198765 NEDSZAJJXXX 147105 for cheque accounts.
Old Mutual 462005 OMAMZAJCXXX Uses Bidvest infrastructure.
PEP Bank 400001 – Retail-linked banking.
RMB Private Bank 222026 – Part of FirstRand group.
SA Post Bank (Post Office) 460005 SBZAZAJJ Government-backed.
Sasfin Bank Limited 683000 SASFZAJJXXX Business and wealth management.
Societe Generale Bank 351005 – French bank in SA.
Standard Bank of South Africa 051001 SBZAZAJJ One of the largest in Africa.
Standard Chartered Bank 730020 – International with local branches.
State Bank of India 801000 – Indian government-owned.
TymeBank 678910 CBZAZAJJ Mobile banking innovator.

This table represents a synthesis of data from various financial directories and bank documents as of 2025. Cross-check for real-time accuracy.