How long does a SWIFT transfer take

Question

Accepted Answer

A SWIFT transfer typically takes 1 to 5 business days to complete, depending on the banks involved and the route the payment takes.

If the sending and receiving banks have a direct relationship, a SWIFT transfer may arrive in 1 to 2 business days. Transfers that require multiple intermediary or correspondent banks usually take 2 to 5 business days. For some major currency routes, and if processed early in the day, funds can sometimes be credited within hours or minutes.

Cut-off times: Transfers sent after a bank’s daily cut-off are processed on the next business day.
Weekends and holidays: International wire transfers are not processed on weekends or public holidays.
Intermediary banks: Each additional bank involved can increase processing time.
Compliance checks: Anti-money laundering or fraud reviews may delay the transfer.
Incorrect details: Errors in recipient information can cause further delays.