If you’re wiring money to a United Overseas Bank account in Singapore, the SWIFT code is the key piece of information the sender needs. But if you’re not sure whether the standard UOVBSGSGXXX works for every branch, you’re not alone. This guide lays out the main code, explains when a branch-specific code might be required, and shows you how to find the right one.
UOB official SWIFT code: UOVBSGSGXXX ·
SWIFT code length: 8 or 11 characters ·
UOB head office location: Raffles Place, Singapore ·
Branches in Singapore: Over 60 ·
SWIFT code purpose: International wire transfers
Quick snapshot
- Standardised format for international bank identification (OFX (currency exchange specialist))
- 8 or 11 characters (OFX (currency exchange specialist))
- Used for wire transfers between banks (OFX (currency exchange specialist))
- Primary code: UOVBSGSGXXX (XE (currency transfer platform))
- Head office: Raffles Place (XE (currency transfer platform))
- May vary by service or branch (XE (currency transfer platform))
- Branch code is 3-digit local identifier (UOB ACH Bank & Branch Code Guide (official PDF))
- SWIFT code is international identifier (UOB ACH Bank & Branch Code Guide (official PDF))
- Both may be needed for domestic transfers (UOB ACH Bank & Branch Code Guide (official PDF))
- Check bank statement (OFX (currency exchange specialist))
- Visit UOB website (OFX (currency exchange specialist))
- Use trusted aggregators (OFX (currency exchange specialist))
- Contact customer service (OFX (currency exchange specialist))
Six key facts at a glance:
| Bank name | United Overseas Bank (UOB) |
|---|---|
| Head office SWIFT code | UOVBSGSGXXX |
| Country | Singapore (SG) |
| Currency | SGD (Singapore Dollar) |
| SWIFT code length | 8 or 11 characters |
| Number of branches in Singapore | Over 60 |
Is the SWIFT code the same for all branches?
UOB head office SWIFT code: UOVBSGSGXXX
- UOB’s head office SWIFT code is UOVBSGSGXXX, as confirmed by Slash (SWIFT code directory) and XE (currency transfer platform).
- This code is used for most international transfers to UOB accounts in Singapore.
Branch-specific SWIFT codes for Tampines
XE notes that UOB may use different SWIFT/BIC codes depending on the service or branch. However, no public directory lists a unique code specifically for the Tampines branch. For transfers to a Tampines account, the head office code UOVBSGSGXXX is likely sufficient, but confirming with UOB is recommended.
Branch-specific SWIFT codes for Raffles Place
Raffles Place is UOB’s head office location, corresponding to the XXX suffix. The code UOVBSGSGXXX is directly tied to 80 Raffles Place, UOB Plaza, according to Bank.Codes (third-party SWIFT directory).
Branch-specific SWIFT codes for Jurong Point
As with Tampines, no separate SWIFT code is publicly listed for Jurong Point. The primary code should work, but Remitly (money transfer service) lists a different code (UOVBSGSGCSD) for UOB, indicating that branch-specific codes do exist even if not widely published.
Most international transfers to UOB work with UOVBSGSGXXX, but the absence of a public branch-code list means you should always confirm the exact code with UOB before sending.
The implication: For standard transfers, the head office code is reliable. But if you’re sending to a specific branch or using a specialised service, double-check with UOB.
Is the UOB branch code the same as BIC?
Definition of BIC vs branch code
- BIC (Bank Identifier Code) is the same as a SWIFT code – UOVBSGSG is the BIC for UOB Singapore, as detailed by GetHoldings (SWIFT directory).
- Branch code is a local 3-digit identifier used for domestic transactions. UOB’s ACH Bank & Branch Code Guide (UOB official PDF) lists branch codes like 001 (UOB Main) and 002 (City Square Mall).
Relationship between SWIFT/BIC and branch codes
BIC is an international standard. Branch codes are part of a domestic routing system. The two are not interchangeable. For incoming international wires, you need the SWIFT/BIC. For domestic transfers within Singapore, you may need the branch code.
Example: UOB branch code for Raffles Place
According to UOB’s ACH guide, the branch code for UOB Main (Raffles Place) is 001. The SWIFT code for the same location is UOVBSGSGXXX. The HSBC Singapore information page (international bank) lists the bank code 7375 and branch code 030 for SGD ACH transfers, but the SWIFT remains UOVBSGSGXXX.
What this means: A branch code helps with domestic routing; the SWIFT/BIC is for international identification. You may need both for different types of transfers.
How do I find my UOB SWIFT code?
- Check your UOB account statement — Your SWIFT code is printed on monthly statements. OFX (currency exchange specialist) confirms that bank statements are a primary source for SWIFT codes.
- Visit UOB’s official website — UOB lists the code under “Payments and Transactions” on its website. While the direct page is not linked here, the bank’s official ACH guide confirms the codes.
- Use reliable aggregators (Wise, Xe, Bank.Codes) — XE (currency transfer platform) lists UOVBSGSGXXX as the primary code. Wise (money transfer service) also shows the same code, noting it may be used for all branches. Bank.Codes (third-party directory) provides the 8-character code UOVBSGSG with the address.
- Contact UOB customer service — If you’re unsure, calling UOB direct is the safest method. The bank can confirm the exact SWIFT code for your specific branch or service.
The pattern: The quickest way is to check your statement or online banking. Aggregators are useful but verify with UOB.
Is a SWIFT code 8 digit or 11 digit?
8‑digit SWIFT code structure
- UOVBSGSG is the 8‑character version: UOVB (bank code), SG (country code), SG (location code). Slash (SWIFT code directory) explains this breakdown.
- 8 digits are sufficient for most international transfers because they identify the bank and country.
11‑digit SWIFT code structure
- UOVBSGSGXXX adds the branch code XXX (head office), as noted by GetHoldings (SWIFT directory).
- Other branch suffixes exist (e.g., CSD from Remitly), but XXX is the default for UOB’s main office.
When to use 8 vs 11 characters
OFX (currency exchange specialist) states that 8 characters are usually enough for routing, but 11 characters specify the exact branch. For UOB, using UOVBSGSGXXX avoids any ambiguity.
The trade-off: An 8-digit code is generally accepted, but adding the branch suffix (XXX) removes doubt about which branch should receive the funds.
Do you need a SWIFT code for international transfers?
When a SWIFT code is mandatory
Most cross-border wire transfers to UOB Singapore require a SWIFT code. Slash (SWIFT code directory) confirms that the code is used for international wire transfers to UOB accounts.
Alternatives for certain countries
Some countries use IBAN (International Bank Account Number) instead of SWIFT. Singapore does not use IBAN; the SWIFT code is the standard identifier.
UOB’s requirements
GetHoldings (SWIFT directory) recommends providing the sender with the SWIFT code UOVBSGSG, your account number, and your full name. Without a correct SWIFT code, the transfer may be delayed or rejected.
Why this matters: Without the correct SWIFT code, your transfer could be delayed or rejected. Always confirm before sending.
While the 8-digit code is widely accepted, using the 11-digit version with XXX avoids any ambiguity about which branch should receive the funds.
Three SWIFT code variants for UOB, each serving a different purpose:
| Code | Type | Use case |
|---|---|---|
| UOVBSGSG | 8-character head office | General international transfers |
| UOVBSGSGXXX | 11-character head office with branch suffix | Preferred for clarity; specifies Raffles Place |
| UOVBSGSGCSD | 11-character branch-specific | Listed by Remitly (money transfer service) for a different branch/service |
The pattern: Most senders can use UOVBSGSGXXX. If you’re unsure, the branch-specific code from Remitly suggests that variations exist, so verify with UOB.
Confirmed facts
- UOB’s head office SWIFT code is UOVBSGSGXXX (Slash, XE).
- The code can be used for most international transfers to UOB (Slash).
- UOB uses BIC interchangeably with SWIFT code (GetHoldings).
What’s unclear
- Whether every branch has a unique SWIFT code – sources disagree (XE hints at variation, but no comprehensive list exists).
- Exact circumstances when a branch-specific code is required.
- Complete list of UOB branch SWIFT codes is not publicly available.
“SWIFT Code: UOVBSGSG” – UOB’s Payments and Transactions page confirms the primary code.
— UOB official website (Singapore bank)
“UOVBSGSGXXX is the SWIFT code for United Overseas Bank Limited … it may be used for all branches.”
“UOB may use different SWIFT/BIC codes depending on the service or branch.”
— XE (currency transfer platform)
For anyone sending money to a UOB account in Singapore, the choice is clear: use the primary SWIFT code UOVBSGSGXXX for most transfers, but verify with the bank if you’re dealing with a specific branch or service. Otherwise, you risk delays.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does an international transfer to UOB typically take?
Most SWIFT transfers take 1–3 business days, depending on the sending bank and intermediary banks. UOB processes incoming wires on the same day if received before cut-off.
What other information do I need besides the SWIFT code for a transfer?
You also need the recipient’s full name, account number, and UOB bank code (7375). For some transfers, the branch code may be required.
Can I use the same SWIFT code for transfers in different currencies?
Yes, the SWIFT code identifies the bank regardless of currency. However, the intermediary bank may vary, which can affect fees.
Does UOB charge a fee for receiving SWIFT transfers?
UOB may charge an incoming wire fee, typically around SGD 10–20. Check with the bank for current rates.
How can I verify the SWIFT code for a specific branch before sending?
Contact UOB customer service directly or use the branch locator on the UOB website. Avoid relying solely on third-party directories.
What happens if I use the wrong SWIFT code?
The transfer may be delayed, rejected, or sent to the wrong account. Always confirm the code before initiating the transfer.
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