Routing number vs IBAN vs SWIFT
| Code | Country | Identifies | Used for a US → Italy transfer? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routing number (ABA) | United States | A US bank | Only for your own US account |
| SWIFT / BIC | Worldwide | A bank | Yes, the Italian bank’s code |
| IBAN | Italy and 80+ countries | An account | Yes, the recipient’s account |
What to ask the recipient for
- Full name exactly as on the account.
- Italian IBAN (27 characters, starting with IT). Check it with our IBAN checker.
- Bank name and SWIFT/BIC code. Most Italian banks use their head-office code; see the directory.
- For some US banks, the recipient’s address and the bank’s address.
Bank wire or transfer service?
US banks must tell you the exchange rate, fees and amount to be received before you pay, under the federal remittance rule. Use that disclosure to compare. In most cases a transfer service such as Wise, Revolut or Remitly delivers more euros than a bank wire for amounts up to tens of thousands of dollars. For very large sums, such as a property purchase, compare a currency broker too.
Avoiding surprises
- Pick the fee option OUR if you need the recipient to receive an exact amount; with SHA, intermediary banks may deduct fees on the way.
- Large transfers may trigger questions from both banks about the source of funds. Keep documents ready.
- If the transfer is for a purchase, never send money to an IBAN given by email without confirming it by phone; changed bank details are a common fraud.
For a broader comparison, see how to send money to Italy cheaply.
Frequently asked questions
What is the routing number for an Italian bank?
Italian banks do not have routing numbers. US routing numbers (ABA numbers) only exist for US banks. For an Italian account, use the IBAN and the SWIFT/BIC code instead.
How much does it cost to wire money from the US to Italy?
US banks typically charge $25 to $50 for an outgoing international wire, plus an exchange-rate margin if they convert dollars to euros, and intermediary banks may deduct further fees. Transfer services often cost a fraction of that.
Should I send dollars or euros from the US?
Send euros if your provider offers a fair rate. If you send dollars, the Italian bank converts them at its own rate and may charge a fee for the foreign-currency payment.
How long does a wire from the US to Italy take?
A bank wire usually arrives in one to five business days. Transfer services often deliver within minutes to one business day once your payment is received.
Sources and fact-checking
Checked on 2 November 2026 by Ionut Popea following our editorial policy. Fees, codes and rules change; confirm anything important with the bank or authority before acting.