OPay Swift Code: Everything You Need to Know
OPay has become one of Nigeria’s most popular mobile money platforms, making financial transactions easy and accessible for millions. But as more Nigerians explore international money transfers, questions like “What is the OPay Swift code?” are becoming increasingly common.
Whether you’re trying to receive funds from abroad or understand the limits of your OPay wallet, this guide will clarify what you need to know about OPay and SWIFT codes.
Key Takeaways
- OPay does not have a SWIFT code because it is not a traditional bank.
- It is licensed by the CBN as a Mobile Money Operator (MMO).
- OPay cannot receive direct international transfers like SWIFT, IBAN, or routing number transactions.
- You can still receive international payments to your OPay wallet via third-party services like WorldRemit and MoneyGram.
- All OPay services are currently Naira-based and domestic.
What Is a SWIFT Code?
A SWIFT code (also known as a BIC—Bank Identifier Code) is a standard format used to identify banks globally in international money transfers. It’s required when sending or receiving funds from one country to another.
A SWIFT code is usually needed to:
- Receive international wire transfers
- Identify specific banks during global financial transactions
- Facilitate fast, secure international money movement
Example: GTBank’s SWIFT code is GTBINGLA.
However, not all financial institutions are eligible for or assigned a SWIFT code.
Does OPay Have a SWIFT Code?
No, OPay does not have a SWIFT code. It’s not a commercial bank but a licensed Mobile Money Operator (MMO) in Nigeria.
As such, it does not support the direct receipt of funds via international wire transfers.
Why Doesn’t OPay Have a SWIFT Code?
- OPay is not part of the global interbank network.
- It doesn’t hold foreign currency accounts.
- Its operations are limited to local, Naira-based transactions within Nigeria.
If you’re planning to receive foreign currency into your OPay wallet, you’ll need to use alternative options.
Alternative Ways to Receive International Payments to OPay
While you can’t use a SWIFT code to receive money directly into OPay, there are reliable workarounds:
1. WorldRemit
- Senders abroad can use WorldRemit to transfer funds.
- The money is received in Naira and sent directly to your OPay wallet.
- Fast and secure process, typically within minutes.
2. MoneyGram
- You can receive MoneyGram transfers in Nigeria.
- Once claimed, the funds can be sent to your OPay wallet.
- May require ID verification depending on the amount.
3. Use a Nigerian Bank Account
- Receive the international payment into a commercial bank with a SWIFT code.
- Then, transfer the funds from your bank account to your OPay wallet.
These methods allow you to bypass the SWIFT requirement while still getting access to funds sent from abroad.
Why OPay Isn’t Classified as a Bank
OPay is licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria but operates under a different regulatory structure from traditional banks.
Key Differences:
- No foreign exchange license – Can’t deal in USD, GBP, or other foreign currencies
- No SWIFT affiliation – Not connected to SWIFT global network
- No bank account numbers – Uses wallet IDs instead
This setup makes OPay ideal for local transactions but limits its international capabilities.
Can You Use IBAN, Sort Code, or Routing Number with OPay?
No. OPay does not support IBAN, sort code, or routing number transactions.
These banking identifiers are specific to institutions with full banking licenses, which OPay does not have.
For international payments, users should use the workarounds listed earlier.
Is OPay Planning to Support International Transfers?
As of now, OPay has not announced any plans to integrate SWIFT services or foreign currency accounts.
However, the company continues to expand its services and partnerships. Future collaborations may bring cross-border capabilities, but nothing official has been confirmed.
Best Practices for Receiving Foreign Payments via OPay
To ensure smooth transfers, keep these tips in mind:
- Use trusted third-party services (WorldRemit, MoneyGram)
- Verify recipient details carefully
- Avoid giving out your wallet PIN or sensitive login data
- Confirm that the sender selects OPay as the delivery method (if available)
Conclusion
OPay doesn’t have a SWIFT code and isn’t part of the global interbank system. But that doesn’t mean you’re cut off from international payments. By using alternative channels like WorldRemit or MoneyGram, you can still receive money safely and conveniently into your OPay wallet.
Stay informed, choose the right transfer method, and always protect your wallet credentials. While OPay focuses on local operations today, the future may hold more international possibilities.
FAQs
Does OPay have a SWIFT code?
No, OPay does not have a SWIFT code. It is not a commercial bank.
Can I receive dollars in my OPay account?
No, OPay only supports Naira transactions.
How can I receive international money in my OPay wallet?
Use services like WorldRemit or MoneyGram to receive Naira into your wallet.
Can I send money abroad from OPay?
Currently, OPay does not support international outbound transfers.
Is OPay a bank?
No, it is a Mobile Money Operator licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Need to receive money from abroad? WorldRemit to OPay is your best bet. Secure, fast, and direct—no SWIFT code needed.
