Detailed Guide: Using SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO SWIFT Code for Global Transfers
When dealing with international finance, precision is paramount. The SGBBBFBF Business Identifier Code (BIC) is the exclusive digital signature for SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO located in OUAGADOUGOU. Without this precise string of characters, your international wire transfer could be delayed, routed to the wrong intermediary, or returned with significant banking fees.
1. Understanding the 11-Character Logic
The code SGBBBFBF is not a random sequence. It follows a strict ISO-9362
hierarchy that tells the global financial system exactly where your money needs to land:
- SGBB: The Bank Code representing SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO globally.
- BF: The Country Code, identifying that the bank is regulated under Burkina Faso laws.
- BF: The Location Code, usually pointing to the OUAGADOUGOU hub.
- XXX: The Branch Code, specifying this exact physical office.
2. How to Receive Money in OUAGADOUGOU
If you are a resident or business owner in OUAGADOUGOU, you must provide the following information to your international sender. For transactions involving SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO, ensure these fields are filled accurately in the MT103 (SWIFT Message Type):
| Field Name | Required Value |
|---|---|
| Beneficiary Name | Your Full Legal Name |
| Account Number | IBAN or Regional Account Format |
| BIC/SWIFT | SGBBBFBF |
| Destination Bank | SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO |
| Branch Location | OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso |
3. Potential Fees & Intermediary Banking
It is important to note that a transfer to SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO might not be direct. Depending on the relationship between your sender's bank and the BF banking system, an "Intermediary Bank" might be involved. These banks may deduct a "Handling Fee" ranging from $15 to $50. Always ask your sender to choose the OUR instruction if they wish to cover all costs, or SHA to share the fees with you.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (Verified Answers)
What happens if I use the Head Office SWIFT instead of the OUAGADOUGOU branch code?
In most cases, SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO will
automatically route the funds to your account based on your Account Number/IBAN. However,
using the local SGBBBFBF is recommended for faster processing
and lower risk of manual intervention.
Is SGBBBFBF the same as a Routing Number?
No. Routing numbers are primarily used for domestic transfers within the USA. For international transfers to Burkina Faso, the SWIFT code is the standard identifier used by the global banking network.
How can I verify if this code is still active?
The code SGBBBFBF for
SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO is part of the latest directory update. We
periodically refresh our database to ensure all codes for OUAGADOUGOU are compliant
with current financial standards.
Note: Financial data changes. While SGBBBFBF is
verified for SOCIETE GENERALE BURKINA FASO, always perform a small test transfer for high-value
transactions. This resource is for educational purposes regarding the banking infrastructure in
OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso.