12 Jun 2025
If you’re a Moroccan living in Spain, chances are you send money back home regularly, whether it’s to support your family, pay school fees, or help with a building project. While there are many ways to transfer money internationally, bank transfers using SWIFT codes are still commonly used. But many expats don’t fully understand how SWIFT codes work, or how to use them safely. This guide breaks it down simply and practically, no jargon, no confusion, just what you need to know.
A SWIFT code (also called BIC – Bank Identifier Code) is like a bank’s international address. It tells banks across borders where to send the money. Every bank that handles international transfers has a SWIFT code. When you send money from Spain to Morocco using a bank transfer, you’ll usually need to enter this code, along with the recipient’s IBAN (International Bank Account Number).
If the SWIFT code is incorrect or entered wrong, your money might be delayed, or worse, sent to the wrong account. That’s why understanding how to use SWIFT codes safely is important for Moroccan expats handling international transfers.
Many Moroccans living in Spain still rely on bank-to-bank transfers for their remittances. It’s often seen as formal and secure. You may prefer this method for large transfers like business payments, school fees, or saving into a Moroccan account. However, SWIFT transfers often come with high fees and slower delivery times compared to money transfer services. Still, they’re widely used, so knowing how to manage them safely is a must.
One of the main issues Moroccan expats face is entering the wrong SWIFT or IBAN code. Since these codes are long and not very human-friendly, mistakes are common. A single wrong digit can delay the payment by days or send it to the wrong place.
Another concern is the hidden fees. Many banks in Spain charge both sender and receiver fees. There may also be fees from intermediary banks that process the transaction along the way. You might send €200 and your family in Morocco may receive much less than expected. Also, scams are on the rise. Fake agents may claim to help you make transfers and ask for your bank details. Always use official bank channels or trusted money transfer platforms.
If you're transferring money through your Spanish bank, first double-check the recipient’s full name, bank name, IBAN, and SWIFT code. It’s a good idea to verify the SWIFT code through the bank’s official website or a trusted checker tool like SWIFT.com.
Avoid writing bank information on public platforms or sending it through insecure messaging apps. If you’re communicating with your family in Morocco about banking info, use end-to-end encrypted apps like WhatsApp or Signal. Ask your bank for a full breakdown of the fees involved. Some banks let you choose whether you or the recipient pays the transfer costs. This can make a big difference if you’re sending money regularly.
SWIFT transfers are not the only option. Moroccan expats in Spain are increasingly switching to secure digital money transfer platforms like ACE Money Transfer. These services are designed for international remittances and can be a more affordable and faster way to send money.
With ACE, you can:
Compared to traditional banks, ACE often offers better exchange rates and fewer hidden charges. It’s a safe option because it’s regulated in both Europe and Morocco, and offers encryption to protect your data.
Imagine sending money to your parents in Fez or Casablanca, only to find out it hasn’t arrived due to a mistake in the bank code. Or realizing a scammer tricked you into giving up your banking details. These situations are avoidable. Using SWIFT codes the right way is about more than avoiding delays, it's about protecting your hard-earned money. You work hard in Spain, and your family in Morocco depends on those funds. A little caution can go a long way.
As a Moroccan expat living in Spain, you deserve more than just one way to send money to Morocco from Spain. While SWIFT codes remain a trusted option, they’re no longer the only choice. Today’s digital platforms offer faster, safer, and more affordable alternatives.
Don't settle for less. Stay informed and take charge of your transfers. Whether you stick with traditional banks or explore smarter options like ACE Money Transfer, make sure you're choosing what works best for you. Your hard-earned money is too valuable to risk. Choose wisely, your family depends on it.
Yes, most Spanish banks like BBVA, Santander, or CaixaBank allow international transfers to Morocco using SWIFT codes.
Normally between 2–5 working days. Delays may occur if the bank needs more info.
ACE is licensed and regulated in Europe. It offers fast and secure transfers, often with lower fees and better rates than banks.
Yes. Popular banks like Attijariwafa Bank, BMCE, and Banque Populaire accept international SWIFT transfers.
