India does not use the IBAN system. If you try to find an Indian IBAN to make a transfer from France, you will quickly realise that it doesn't exist.

Instead, the country uses a different type of banking information made up of several distinct elements. This system might seem surprising at first, especially if you are used to European transfers, but it becomes quite straightforward once you understand the basics.

In this article, you will discover what information is needed to send money to India, how a local bank account is structured, and which solutions you can use for a transfer from France.

If you are looking for a simple solution to transfer money in Indian rupees (INR), you can also turn to Wise. The service allows you to send and receive money using the mid-market exchange rate, without hidden markups, and to manage multiple currencies easily.

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India IBAN: What information is needed for a transfer from France?

To send money to India, there's no need to look for an IBAN. The banking system relies on different identifiers instead.

In most cases, you will need to provide:

• A bank account number
• An IFSC (Indian Financial System Code)
• A SWIFT/BIC code for international transfers

These details make it possible to accurately identify the recipient's bank and account.

India IBAN example: How is an account structured?

In India, bank details follow a different structure from the IBAN system. There is no single standard format, but certain information is always required.

Here is an example of Indian bank details:

• Account number: 123456789012
• IFSC: HDFC0001234
• SWIFT: HDFCINBBXXX

Each piece of information plays a specific role:

• The account number identifies the recipient's account.
• The IFSC code identifies the bank and branch (for example, HDFC0001234 for an HDFC Bank branch).
• The SWIFT code is used for international transfers.

To give a practical example, here is how the information might appear for a transfer:

Complete HDFC example: Account number 123456789012 | IFSC HDFC0001234 | SWIFT HDFCINBBXXX | Recipient name: John Doe

In practice, this is the information you need to request from the person you want to send money to.

India IBAN: How to obtain this information

If you hold a bank account in India, these details are easily accessible through your bank.

You can usually find them:

• on your bank statements
• in your online banking portal
• via your bank's mobile app
• or by contacting your branch directly

If you are in France and need to make a transfer, the easiest option is simply to ask the recipient directly for these details.

Depending on the situation, additional information may also be requested, such as the recipient's address or the bank's full contact details.

Sending money to India from France: What are the options?

There are several solutions for transferring money from France to India.

Traditional bank transfers

Traditional banks allow you to send money internationally.

While this option is secure, it can have certain limitations.

In practice, you will often find:

• relatively high transfer fees
• an exchange rate that may include a markup
• processing times that can sometimes be longer

These factors can vary depending on the bank used, making it important to compare options before making a transfer.

Online banks

Some online banks also offer the option to make international transfers to India.

They generally provide a simpler experience and sometimes more competitive costs than traditional banks.

However, it remains essential to check the terms and conditions, particularly the exchange rate applied and the processing times, which can differ from one service to another.

Specialized services like Wise

Today, many users prefer specialized platforms for international transfers.

Wise, for example, allows you to send money to India in Indian rupees (INR) using the mid-market exchange rate.

In practical terms, this means:

• no hidden markups on the exchange rate
• fees clearly displayed before you confirm
• the recipient can see exactly how much will be received from the start

In many situations, this can help reduce the total cost of the transfer compared to traditional banking solutions.

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Transfers from France to India: What you need to know

Before making a transfer, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First of all, the local currency is the Indian rupee (INR). If you send euros, they will need to be converted.

Next, it is essential to double-check all bank details carefully. A simple mistake in the account number or IFSC code can delay or block the transfer.

Finally, it is recommended to compare the available solutions. The overall cost of a transfer often depends more on the exchange rate applied than on the upfront fees displayed.

FAQ on Indian bank details

Does India use an IBAN?

No, the IBAN system is not used in India. Other banking identifiers are required to make a transfer.

What information is needed for a transfer?

You generally need to provide the account number, the IFSC code, and the SWIFT code for an international transfer.

Can you use a SEPA transfer to India?

No, SEPA transfers are only available within Europe. For India, an international transfer is required.

What currency is used in India?

The official currency is the Indian rupee (INR).

How much does a transfer to India cost?

The cost depends on the service you choose. Banks often apply fixed fees and an exchange rate that may include a markup, while some online services offer transparent pricing.

How long does a transfer to India take?

With a traditional bank, it usually takes 2 to 5 business days. Specialized services can offer shorter processing times, sometimes within 24 to 48 hours.

Which option is the most cost-effective?

Specialized services often offer exchange rates closer to the mid-market exchange rate, which can make them more cost-effective than traditional banks.

Send money to India easily with Wise

Sending money to India from France through a traditional bank can result in significant costs, particularly because of fees and exchange rate markups.

With Wise, you can send, receive, and convert money in Indian rupees (INR) in a simple and transparent way.

The Wise account allows you to:

• hold multiple currencies

• convert money at the mid-market exchange rate

• send money internationally with ease

• track your transfers in real time

It could be a good option if you make regular international transfers or need to manage multiple currencies.

India IBAN: Things to remember

Even without an IBAN, sending money to India from France is still straightforward once you understand which banking details are required.

The most important thing is to have the correct bank details and choose a suitable service to help avoid unnecessary fees.

Today, several solutions exist for making international transfers. Taking the time to compare them can make a real difference to the overall cost, especially if you send money regularly.

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This article is a translation of the original article published in French and was translated within 365 days of publication. While the content has been translated for accessibility, the data and sources referenced have not been updated since the original publication date.