Hong Kong SWIFT Codes and Clearing Codes

Use a SWIFT or BIC for an international business payment to Hong Kong. Use the three-digit Hong Kong clearing code for local clearing or when the payment form or receiving instructions request it.

The table below covers 155 institutions with a Hong Kong BIC and a numeric clearing code below 800 in Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited’s member list dated July 10, 2026. Every listed clearing code also appears in HKICL’s clearing-code file dated October 12, 2026. The table excludes clearing houses, Hong Kong Monetary Authority service codes and overseas institutions whose BIC is outside Hong Kong.

Hong Kong SWIFT codes and clearing codes

A SWIFT/BIC identifies an institution or service in international bank messaging. A Hong Kong clearing code is a three-digit institution identifier used with a branch code in local payment instructions. A business payment form may ask for one or both.

HKICL’s BIC list often supplies an eleven-character code. Some end in XXX, while others identify a particular Hong Kong branch or service. Use the code supplied for the recipient account rather than replacing or adding a suffix.

Are SWIFT codes different for business accounts?

Business and personal accounts usually share the institution-level SWIFT/BIC. Receiving instructions can still differ by legal entity, branch, account currency, product and correspondent route.

For a business payment, obtain bank-issued instructions showing the registered business name, account number, account currency, bank name, branch code, clearing code and SWIFT/BIC where required. Confirm changed or first-time instructions through a known contact at the recipient business.

How to choose the correct Hong Kong clearing code

1. Identify the payment route. International wires usually require a SWIFT/BIC. Local clearing instructions commonly use the three-digit clearing code and a branch code.
2. Match the legal institution. Banking groups can have a Hong Kong-incorporated bank and a separate Hong Kong branch with different codes.
3. Check the branch and currency. The branch code and correspondent instructions can differ by account and settlement currency.
4. Confirm before release. Compare every code with written receiving instructions issued for the beneficiary account.

Using Hong Kong bank details in a business payment workflow

Store the beneficiary name, account number, currency, institution, branch and verified routing details together. Require a second-channel check when bank details change before approving the payment.

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Frequently asked questions

Is a Hong Kong clearing code the same as a SWIFT code?

No. The clearing code is a three-digit local institution identifier. A SWIFT/BIC identifies an institution or service for international bank messaging.

Does a Hong Kong payment also need a branch code?

Local instructions often use both a three-digit clearing code and a branch code. Use the branch code issued for the beneficiary account.

Do business accounts use different SWIFT codes?

Usually they share the institution-level BIC. The correct instructions can still differ by legal entity, branch, currency, product or correspondent route.

How should a Hong Kong bank code be verified?

Compare it with bank-issued receiving instructions and the current HKICL clearing-code and BIC lists. Confirm the legal institution, branch and account currency before releasing a material payment.