Universal Branch Codes for South African Banks – 2025
When making EFT payments in South Africa, one of the most common questions is: Which branch code should I use? Luckily, most banks have introduced universal branch codes that work across all branches nationwide.
Instead of searching for the exact branch code for your bank, you can simply use the universal branch code provided by your bank. This saves time, reduces errors, and makes online banking much easier.
What is a Universal Branch Code?
A universal branch code is a single six-digit number that applies to all branches of a bank in South Africa. Instead of entering the specific branch code (like Sandton or Cape Town), you can use the universal code for EFTs and online payments.
For example:
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FNB Universal Branch Code: 250655
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Standard Bank Universal Branch Code: 051001
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Absa Universal Branch Code: 632005
Universal Branch Codes for Major Banks in South Africa
Here are the universal branch codes for all the major banks:
| Bank | Universal Branch Code |
| Absa Bank Universal Branch Code | 632 005 |
| African Bank Limited Universal Branch Code | 430 000 |
| Bank of Athens Universal Branch Code | 410 506 |
| Barclays Bank Universal Branch Code | 590 000 |
| Bidvest Bank Limited Universal Branch Code | 679 000 |
| Capitec Bank Limited Universal Branch Code | 470 010 |
| Discovery Bank Limited Universal Branch Code | 679 000 |
| First National Bank Universal Branch Code | 250 655 |
| FirstRand Bank Limited Universal Branch Code | 201 419 |
| HSBC Bank Universal Branch Code | 587 000 |
| Investec Bank Limited Universal Branch Code | 580 105 |
| Mercantile Bank Limited Universal Branch Code | 450 905 |
| Nedbank Universal Branch Code | 198 765 |
| Old Mutual Universal Branch Code | 462 005 |
| Rand Merchant Bank Universal Branch Code | 261 251 |
| RMB Private Bank Universal Branch Code | 222 026 |
| Sasfin Bank Limited Universal Branch Code | 683 000 |
| SA Post Bank (Post Office) Universal Branch Code | 460 005 |
| South African Bank of Athens Limited Universal Branch Code | 410 506 |
| Standard Bank Universal Branch Code | 051 001 |
| Standard Chartered Bank Universal Branch Code | 730 020 |
| Tyme Bank Universal Branch Code | 678 910 |
Tip: If you are unsure which branch to select during an online payment, always choose the option with the universal branch code.
Why Universal Branch Codes Matter in South Africa
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✅ Convenience: One code for all branches.
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✅ Accuracy: Reduces transaction errors.
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✅ Speed: Faster EFT payments.
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✅ Standardized Banking: Makes online payments simpler for customers across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a universal branch code in South Africa?
A universal branch code is a single code that applies to all branches of a bank, making EFTs and online payments simpler.
2. Which banks in South Africa use universal branch codes?
All major banks including FNB, Absa, Standard Bank, Nedbank, Capitec, Investec, and TymeBank have universal branch codes.
3. Do I still need a branch-specific code?
In most cases, no. The universal branch code works for EFTs and online transactions. However, some debit orders may still require a branch-specific code.
4. What is the FNB universal branch code?
The FNB universal branch code is 250655.
5. What is the Absa universal branch code?
The Absa universal branch code is 632005.
6. What is the Standard Bank universal branch code?
The Standard Bank universal branch code is 051001.
7. What is the Nedbank universal branch code?
The Nedbank universal branch code is 198765.
8. Can I use a universal branch code for debit orders?
Sometimes debit orders require a branch-specific code, but most banks now accept the universal branch code.
9. Is it safe to use the universal branch code?
Yes, it is safe and recommended by all major banks in South Africa.
10. Where can I find my bank’s universal branch code?
You can find it on your bank’s official website, mobile app, statements, or EFT payment page when adding a new beneficiary.
Final Thoughts
The universal branch codes for all banks in South Africa make online banking and EFT payments quick and hassle-free. Instead of searching for a specific branch code, simply use your bank’s universal code, such as FNB 250655 or Absa 632005, and enjoy smooth transactions every time.