What is a bank code? List of bank codes in Hong Kong

A bank code is a unique three-digit identifier assigned to financial institutions in Hong Kong. It helps the local clearing system process transactions accurately. You will need a hong kong bank code for tasks like local bank transfers, setting up direct debits, or managing corporate payrolls. 

This article provides the updated hong kong bank code list for 2026. We will also break down the differences between a local bank code, branch codes, and international transfer codes.

What are bank codes?

A bank code acts as a primary digital routing number for domestic transactions. Local clearing systems use this three-digit number to direct your money to the right institution. Some major institutions use multiple codes due to historical mergers. For example, the Bank of China (Hong Kong) uses 012, 014, and 019.

A complete local bank account number generally consists of three main components:

1. Bank code: A three-digit number identifying the specific institution, such as 004 for HSBC.

2. Branch code: A three-digit number identifying the specific branch where the account opened.

3. Account number: The unique individual or business account digits sequence.

How to check for bank codes and branch codes?

Finding the correct codes for local transfers is straightforward. You can easily locate a hong kong bank code through several secure channels.

• The bank’s official website: Most banks provide a complete list of bank codes and branch codes for customer reference on their official websites.

• Customer service: Contact the bank’s customer service to confirm the correct codes when in doubt.

• Online payment platforms: Some platforms automatically provide bank code options when making e-transfers.

• Bank statements: Monthly bank statements are reliable references as these statements usually display the bank and branch codes.

Hong Kong bank code vs Branch code vs SWIFT vs IBAN

In addition to bank and branch codes, international transactions often require a SWIFT code or International Bank Account Number (IBAN).  

The Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) code is a secure messaging network designed for global banks and financial institutions. It standardises financial messages to ensure transactions are conducted securely and efficiently in a regulated environment.  On the other hand, IBAN is an international standard for bank account numbers, consisting of up to 34 alphanumeric characters. It helps identify the recipient’s bank account precisely, reducing errors in cross-border transactions.

List of bank codes for licensed banks in Hong Kong

The table below lists the bank codes of some common licensed banks and digital banks in Hong Kong.

Finding the correct hong kong bank code ensures domestic transfers move smoothly. However, traditional legacy transfers often involve rigid frameworks, manual processing times, and high fees. Modern businesses frequently require more flexible financial platforms like Airwallex to scale globally.

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Frequently asked questions

1. What happens if I enter an incorrect hong kong bank code? 

The local clearing network will fail to identify the destination institution. The transaction will bounce back to your balance within a few business days. Note that processing institutions may deduct administrative transaction fees for rejected routing requests.

2. Why does the Bank of China (Hong Kong) have multiple entries? 

The institution absorbed several separate entities over time, including Po Sang Bank and Hua Chiao Commercial Bank. The clearing system maintains separate legacy routing paths to ensure older accounts continue functioning smoothly. Always check your latest corporate statement to see which specific identifier applies to your profile.

3. Do I need a SWIFT code for domestic transfers? 

No, you do not need international identifiers for local transfers. Moving money inside the domestic market only requires a three-digit hong kong bank code, a three-digit branch code, and the individual account number. Keep international routing fields blank unless you are sending funds outside the local territory.