Branch Codes & Bank Codes for Transfers in Hong Kong

To transfer money between Hong Kong banks, you need three key details: the bank code, branch code, and account number. Each of these codes plays a key role in reducing errors and delays when processing payments.

These details are required to complete a transfer in Hong Kong Dollars, US Dollars, RMB, or Euros between two Hong Kong bank accounts.

However, not all banks display these codes in the same format, which can cause confusion when making transactions. In this guide, we’ll explain how bank codes and branch codes work, where to find them, and how to format your payment details correctly to avoid common mistakes.

Simply put, a Hong Kong bank code is a 3-digit number assigned to a particular bank or financial institution in Hong Kong.

Similar to how sort codes are used in the British and Irish banking systems, a bank code is used to identify a specific bank when transferring money between banks in Hong Kong.

To understand why bank codes are important, let’s look at how they function within Hong Kong’s payment system:

• Identify financial institutions – Bank codes ensure transfers are directed to the correct recipient bank.
• Enable real-time settlements – CHATS (Clearing House Automated Transfer System) processes payments instantly via RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement).
• Manage clearing operations – The system is run by Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited (HKICL), a joint entity of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Hong Kong Association of Banks (HKAB).

Unlike other clearing systems that bundle multiple transactions before processing, CHATS settles payments instantly between banks after execution. This helps reduce waiting times and facilitates faster fund transfers for businesses and individuals.

A bank code distinguishes each Hong Kong bank, while a branch code recognises a specific branch under a bank.

As for bank codes, each branch code is a 3-digit number assigned to identify individual branches within a bank.

For example:

• HSBC’s bank code is 004. 
• HSBC has numerous branches spread across Hong Kong, and each one of these branches will have its own branch code associated with it.
• The HSBC Central branch code is 770.

While some banks clearly display branch codes in account details, others may embed the branch code within the account number, making it difficult to distinguish between them. For example, HSBC account numbers typically include the branch code within the first three digits. [1]

Hong Kong banks do not follow a single standardised format for account numbers, which can sometimes cause confusion when entering payment details.

Account numbers in Hong Kong range from 6 to 9 digits, depending on the bank, making it difficult to verify whether your beneficiary’s account number is valid.

To complicate things, different banks follow different policies when structuring account numbers:

• Some banks list the branch code separately from the account number.
• Others embed the branch code into the account number, making it appear longer.

When entering payment details, it’s important to correctly identify the bank code, branch code, and account number to avoid errors. Here’s how they are typically structured in Hong Kong:

• Bank code – Always a 3-digit number, identifying the financial institution (e.g., HSBC = 004, Standard Chartered = 003).
• Branch code – Also a 3-digit number, assigned to specific bank branches. Some banks list it separately, while others embed it within the account number.
• Account number – Typically 6 to 9 digits, but some banks combine the branch code within the account number, making it appear longer.

For example, HSBC account numbers contain 12 digits, structured as follows:

• The first 3 digits represent the branch code
• The remaining 9 digits form the account number

Having the correct bank code helps facilitate smooth transactions and reduces the risk of errors.
Using an incorrect bank code can result in transaction delays, additional fees, or unsuccessful transfers. To avoid these issues, always verify the bank code and branch code with your bank or beneficiary before making a payment.

You can find a Hong Kong bank code through the following sources:

• Bank Websites & Online Banking – Most banks provide a list of their bank codes and branch codes on their official websites or online banking portals.
• Bank Statements & Account Information – Your monthly bank statement or account details typically include your bank and branch codes.
• HKICL Clearing Code Directory – The Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited (HKICL) maintains an updated list of bank and branch codes for all financial institutions in Hong Kong. [2]
• Bank Customer Support – If you’re unable to find the bank code through the methods above, you can contact your bank’s customer service or visit a branch for assistance.

If you need more details about international payments outside Hong Kong, check out our comprehensive guide.

To ensure smooth and accurate transactions in Hong Kong, always use the correct bank code and branch code. Entering incorrect details may lead to delays, failed payments, or unnecessary fees, so it’s best to double-check before transferring funds.

You can find the correct codes through your bank’s statement, online banking portal, or the HKICL directory. If you are unsure, it is best to contact your bank’s customer service, as a verification step can prevent costly mistakes.