What is the 012 Bank Code? Essential Knowledge for Bank of China (Hong Kong) Transfers

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When you conduct bank transfers in Hong Kong, you often encounter the 012 bank code. This code represents Bank of China (Hong Kong). If you fill it in incorrectly, the funds may not be credited successfully. For example, interbank RTGS or CHATS transfers require the correct input of this code.

Key Points

• The 012 bank code represents Bank of China (Hong Kong), and it must be correctly filled in during transfers to ensure funds are safely credited.
• When filling in transfer details, you must enter the bank code, branch code, and account number simultaneously to avoid errors leading to transfer failures.
• If you are unsure about the details, you should proactively check with the bank or refer to official sources to ensure every transfer is accurate and error-free.

Uses of the 012 Bank Code

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Which Bank It Represents

When you conduct bank transfers in Hong Kong, you often see the 012 bank code. This code is exclusive to Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited. When you need to perform local bank transfers, RTGS, or CHATS transactions, the system will require you to enter the correct bank code. The 012 bank code is managed by the Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited. You can verify this code multiple times in the official bank code list.

Tip: As long as you remember the 012 bank code, you can accurately identify all accounts of Bank of China (Hong Kong).

Bank of China (Hong Kong) account numbers generally consist of 11 digits. When filling in transfer details, besides entering the 012 bank code, you also need to input the correct branch code and account number. If you are making international remittances, you will also need the SWIFT code for Bank of China (Hong Kong): BKCHHKHH.

Role in Transfers

When you perform local bank transfers, the banking system will automatically identify the recipient bank as Bank of China (Hong Kong) based on the 012 bank code you enter. This ensures the funds are correctly credited to the recipient’s account. Whether you use online banking, a mobile app, or visit a branch in person, the bank will require you to input this code.

• For large-value transfers via RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement) or CHATS (Clearing House Automated Transfer System), the 012 bank code is equally essential.
• During interbank transfers, the bank code helps the system accurately distinguish between different banks, reducing the chance of errors.

Note: If you enter the wrong bank code, the funds may be transferred to another bank or fail to be credited successfully.

When filling in transfer details, you should check all information, including the bank code, branch code, and account number. This ensures the safety of your funds and avoids unnecessary losses.

How to Use the 012 Bank Code for Transfers

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Format for Filling In

When performing bank transfers, you must correctly fill in three key pieces of information: the bank code, branch code, and account number. For Bank of China (Hong Kong), you need to enter the 012 bank code, followed by a 3-digit branch code and an 8-to-11-digit account number. These details combined allow the banking system to accurately identify the recipient’s account.

Below is an example of the transfer details format for common Hong Kong banks:

When filling in, you should follow the format required by the bank. For example, the full account number format for Bank of China (Hong Kong) is typically “branch code-account number,” i.e., “999-999999999.” As long as you ensure the 012 bank code is correct, the funds will be safely credited.

How to Find It

You may wonder how to find your branch code and account number. You can obtain them through the following methods:

• Bank Statement: The monthly bank statement you receive clearly lists the branch code and account number.
• Online Banking or Mobile App: Log in to your online banking account, and you can usually find the full account number and branch code in the “Account Details” or “Transfer” section.
• Bank Card: Some banks print the account number on the front of the debit or credit card, but the branch code may not be displayed.
• Call the Bank Hotline or Inquire in Person: If you are unsure, you can directly call the bank’s customer service hotline or visit a branch to inquire.

Tip: When checking via online banking, it’s recommended to verify both the bank code (e.g., 012 bank code) and the branch code to avoid errors.

Precautions

When filling in transfer details, you should pay special attention to the following points:

1. Do not enter multiple bank codes simultaneously. You only need to input one correct bank code, such as the 012 bank code; otherwise, the system may not process your transfer.
2. Common errors include mixing up the branch code and account number, entering the wrong bank code, or omitting details. You should double-check all information before submitting.
3. If in doubt, proactively check with the bank. You can call the bank hotline or visit a branch in person to ensure all details are correct and to safeguard your funds.

Note: For every interbank transfer, you must verify the bank code, branch code, and account number to reduce the chance of errors and ensure the funds are successfully credited.

When transferring with Bank of China (Hong Kong), correctly filling in the 012 bank code is crucial. This ensures the funds are safely credited. If you have any doubts, you should proactively check with the bank or refer to official sources to ensure every operation is accurate and error-free.

FAQ

What is the 012 bank code?

When you conduct bank transfers in Hong Kong, the 012 bank code represents Bank of China (Hong Kong).

What is the difference between the 012 bank code and the SWIFT code?

You use the 012 bank code for local transfers. You use the SWIFT code (BKCHHKHH) for international remittances.

What happens if I enter the wrong 012 bank code during a transfer?

If you enter the wrong bank code, the funds may not be credited or may be returned. It’s recommended to double-check the details.

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