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| Find Zenith Bank’s SWIFT code and key international transfer details for sending or receiving money from abroad. |
Zenith Bank's SWIFT/BIC code is `ZEIBNGLA` (also written as `ZEIBNGLAXXX`) — this is the code you need to send or receive international wire transfers to a Zenith Bank account in Nigeria.
What Is a SWIFT Code and Why You Need It
A SWIFT code (also called a BIC — Bank Identifier Code) is a standardized 8-or-11-character code that identifies a specific bank and branch within the global SWIFT payment network. When someone abroad wants to send you money via international bank transfer, their bank uses this code to route the funds to the correct institution — in this case, Zenith Bank in Nigeria.
Local vs. international transfers: Don't confuse this with Zenith Bank's sort code, which is used only for transfers within Nigeria. SWIFT codes are strictly for cross-border, international transfers.
Zenith Bank's SWIFT Code
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| SWIFT/BIC Code | ZEIBNGLA (or ZEIBNGL) |
| Bank Name | Zenith Bank Plc |
| Address | 87 Ajose Adeogun Street, Heights, Victoria Island |
| City | Lagos |
| Country | Nigeria |
Breaking Down the Code
A SWIFT code follows a standard structure:
- - ZEIB — the bank identifier (Zenith Bank)
- - NG — the country code (Nigeria)
- - LA — the location code (Lagos)
- - XXX (optional) — indicates the head/primary office when no specific branch is specified
8 vs. 11 characters:`ZEIBNGLA` (8 characters) refers to Zenith Bank's head office and is generally sufficient for most transfers. `ZEIBNGLAXXX` is functionally the same code — the "XXX" suffix is simply the formal 11-character version also denoting the head office.
Do You Need a Branch-Specific SWIFT Code?
For the vast majority of personal and small business international transfers,`ZEIBNGLA` (the head office code) is sufficient — Zenith Bank processes incoming international payments centrally regardless of which branch holds your account. Branch-specific codes (such as `ZEIBNGLA013` for the Abuja branch) exist but are rarely required unless your recipient bank specifically requests one.
How to Receive an International Transfer to Your Zenith Bank Account
Give the sender the following details:
1. SWIFT Code: ZEIBNGLA
2. Your full account number
3. Your full name exactly as it appears on your Zenith Bank account
4. Bank address: 87 Ajose Adeogun Street, Zenith Heights, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Tip: Confirm with your sender that they're using `ZEIBNGLA` and not a mistyped or outdated variant — SWIFT codes for different banks can look deceptively similar, and even a single wrong character can delay or misdirect a transfer.
How Long Do International Transfers Take?
International wire transfers to Zenith Bank typically take 1–5 business days, depending on the sending bank, any intermediary banks involved, and cut-off times. Transfers using SWIFT gpi (a faster tracking system some banks use) may arrive within hours instead.
Common Issues with SWIFT Transfers
| Issue | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer delayed | Intermediary bank processing time | Contact Zenith Bank customer care to trace the transfer |
| Funds not received | Wrong SWIFT code or account number entered | Verify all details with the sender and Zenith Bank directly |
| Extra fees deducted | Intermediary/correspondent bank charges | Ask your sender about all fees upfront before transferring |
If a transfer seems delayed beyond the expected window, contact Zenith Bank's customer care with your transaction reference number for tracing.
- Zenith Bank Sort Code: Complete Guide to Branch Codes in Nigeria
- Zenith Bank Customer Care: Phone, WhatsApp (ZiVA) & Live Chat
- How to Open a Euro Domiciliary Account in Nigeria
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zenith Bank's SWIFT code?
ZEIBNGLA (also written as ZEIBNGLAXXX).
Is Zenith Bank's SWIFT code the same for Lagos and Abuja?
The head office code (ZEIBNGLA) works for most transfers regardless of branch location; a specific Abuja branch code (ZEIBNGLA013) exists but is rarely needed.
What's the difference between a sort code and a SWIFT code?
Sort codes are for domestic Nigerian transfers between branches; SWIFT codes are for international wire transfers.
How long does an international transfer to Zenith Bank take?
Typically 1–5 business days, depending on the sending bank and any intermediaries involved.
Do I need my account officer to confirm the SWIFT code?
It's good practice to double-check with Zenith Bank customer care before a large international transfer, especially if you're unsure which code variant to use.
Conclusion
For nearly all personal and business international transfers to Zenith Bank in Nigeria, `ZEIBNGLA` is the correct SWIFT/BIC code to provide. Double-check it against your sender's bank before initiating any large transfer, and keep your Zenith Bank customer care number handy in case you need to trace a delayed payment.
- Zenith Bank Official Website — for confirming current transfer details directly with the bank
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