National Bank Kenya SWIFT code is the official identifier used for international transactions with National Bank of Kenya Ltd (NBK). The 8-character version is NBKEKENX, while the extended 11-character format is NBKEKENXXXX. Sometimes you may see it displayed as NBKEKENX XXX, but the correct format is always NBKEKENXXXX without spaces.
The official registered head-office address for this SWIFT code is:
National Bank of Kenya Ltd, National Bank Building, Floor 2, Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya.
A SWIFT/BIC code is structured into four parts:
- NBKE → bank code (National Bank of Kenya)
- KE → country code (Kenya)
- NX → location code (Nairobi)
- XXX → branch code (head office)
From this breakdown, NBKEKENX identifies NBK in Nairobi. Adding XXX makes it the complete 11-character head-office SWIFT code: NBKEKENXXXX.
Quick reference (copy-ready):
- 8-character SWIFT/BIC: NBKEKENX
- 11-character SWIFT/BIC: NBKEKENXXXX
- Bank: National Bank of Kenya Ltd (NBK)
- Address: National Bank Building, Floor 2, Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya
- Usage: International transfers to or from National Bank Kenya accounts
When to use it
Use the National Bank Kenya SWIFT code when you are receiving money from abroad into an NBK account or sending funds internationally from Kenya.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Writing spaces in the SWIFT code (always NBKEKENXXXX, not “NBKEKENX XXX”).
- Confusing NBK Kenya’s SWIFT with other banks that share similar names abroad.
- Using the short 8-character version when the transfer form requires the 11-character code.
Step-by-step guide to making a transfer with National Bank Kenya SWIFT code
- Confirm the recipient’s account name and National Bank account number.
- Enter the SWIFT code: NBKEKENX (8-character) or NBKEKENXXXX (11-character).
- Provide the registered address: National Bank Building, Floor 2, Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Choose the transfer currency (USD, EUR, GBP, or KES are common).
- Decide how the fees will be covered (sender, recipient, or shared).
- Clearly state the purpose of payment (e.g., tuition, remittance, business invoice).
- Double-check every detail before confirming.
- Keep the transaction slip and share the reference with the recipient.
Final checklist
✔ Recipient’s account details accurate
✔ Correct SWIFT code entered (NBKEKENX or NBKEKENXXXX)
✔ Bank address added if required
✔ Purpose of transfer clearly indicated
✔ Transfer fees agreed
By using the National Bank Kenya SWIFT code correctly, you ensure your international transfers are processed securely, efficiently, and without delays.
