Wiring to China: SWIFT Code vs. CNAPS
Depending on the currency and the network you use, you may need different routing codes for your transfer to Mainland China:
1. Foreign Currency Transfers (USD, EUR, HKD) 👉 Use SWIFT Code (8-11 characters)
If you are wiring USD or other foreign currencies into China, providing the head office's SWIFT Code is usually sufficient. The beneficiary will convert the funds into RMB upon arrival.
If you are wiring USD or other foreign currencies into China, providing the head office's SWIFT Code is usually sufficient. The beneficiary will convert the funds into RMB upon arrival.
2. Cross-Border RMB Remittances (CNY/RMB) 👉 CNAPS Code is Mandatory (12 digits)
CNAPS (China National Advanced Payment System) is the domestic clearing system operated by the PBOC. If you are directly sending Chinese Yuan, or using fintech remittance apps linked to Alipay/WeChat, you must provide the 12-digit CNAPS number of the specific local branch where the account was opened. Since every single branch has a different CNAPS code, please verify this exactly with the recipient beforehand.
CNAPS (China National Advanced Payment System) is the domestic clearing system operated by the PBOC. If you are directly sending Chinese Yuan, or using fintech remittance apps linked to Alipay/WeChat, you must provide the 12-digit CNAPS number of the specific local branch where the account was opened. Since every single branch has a different CNAPS code, please verify this exactly with the recipient beforehand.