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Commercial Bank of Ceylon International Money Transfer: A Complete Guide

Commercial Bank of Ceylon International Money Transfer: A Complete Guide

11 Nov 2026


Sending money internationally to a Commercial Bank of Ceylon account in Sri Lanka can help people support their families, cover education expenses, manage household payments, or meet financial commitments across borders. Whether you are living in the UK, Australia, Canada, or another country, understanding the available remittance options can make the process more straightforward.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, also known as ComBank, is a Sri Lankan bank with roots dating back to 1920. Its history began when Eastern Bank opened a branch in Colombo, while Commercial Bank of Ceylon was incorporated as an independent entity in 1969, as explained in the bank's official history.

The bank provides inward and outward remittance facilities, including its RemitPlus service for people sending money to Sri Lanka from overseas. Before arranging a Commercial Bank of Ceylon international money transfer, it is important to understand the available methods, recipient details, SWIFT code, transfer fees, exchange rates, and expected processing time.

This guide explains how international transfers through Commercial Bank of Ceylon work, how to send and receive money, what information may be required, and how to compare bank transfers with online money transfer services.

Understanding Commercial Bank of Ceylon International Money Transfer

Commercial Bank of Ceylon offers inward and outward remittance facilities for eligible international transactions. These services play an essential role in access to banking in Sri Lanka, supported by the bank’s network of over 260 branches and more than 860 ATMs across the country, checked on 9 November 2026.

An inward remittance is money transferred from another country into Sri Lanka. For example, someone living in the UK may send money to a family member with a Commercial Bank account. An outward remittance is money sent from Sri Lanka to an overseas recipient, such as an eligible payment for education, medical expenses, or business purposes.

The bank's international remittance services include:

Inward foreign remittance: Receiving money from overseas into an eligible Commercial Bank account or through an available collection arrangement.

Outward foreign remittance: Sending money from Sri Lanka to an overseas beneficiary, subject to the bank's requirements and applicable regulations.

International wire transfer: Using banking networks such as SWIFT to transfer money between financial institutions.

RemitPlus: Commercial Bank's online inward remittance service, which connects overseas senders with its international remittance partners.

According to Commercial Bank of Ceylon's official RemitPlus service information, checked on 9 November 2026, its remittance business partners operate in more than 130 countries. This figure reflects the bank's published information as of that date and may change as its international partner network is updated. The bank's commitment to its customers is also reflected in its recognition as Best Bank in Sri Lanka at Euromoney's Asia Awards for Excellence 2021, announced on 15 July 2021.

What Is the SWIFT Code for Commercial Bank of Ceylon?

A SWIFT code, also known as a Bank Identifier Code (BIC), identifies a financial institution when an international bank transfer is processed. It helps sending and receiving banks route payments to the correct institution.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon publishes the following SWIFT code for its Sri Lankan operations on its official contact page:

SWIFT/BIC code: CCEYLKLX

When arranging a Commercial Bank of Ceylon international wire transfer, the sender should provide the correct code along with the recipient's account details. Depending on the sending bank and payment route, additional information about the beneficiary's branch or an intermediary bank may also be required.

It is important not to confuse Commercial Bank of Ceylon with Bank of Ceylon. They are separate financial institutions with different banking details and SWIFT codes. Always obtain the information directly from the intended recipient or bank before submitting a payment.

How to Send Money to a Commercial Bank of Ceylon Account from Abroad

People living overseas can use different methods to send money to Sri Lanka. The available options depend on the sender's country, payment method, transfer amount, currency, and the receiving arrangements supported by the provider.

Two common options are an international bank transfer and an online money transfer service.

International Bank Transfer

An international bank transfer allows a sender to arrange a payment through their existing bank. Depending on the institution, this can be done through online banking, mobile banking, telephone banking, or a branch.

For a SWIFT transfer, the sending bank communicates with the receiving bank, sometimes through one or more correspondent or intermediary banks. These institutions help process international payments when the sending and receiving banks do not have a direct banking relationship.

To arrange an international bank transfer to Commercial Bank of Ceylon, the sender may need to provide:

Recipient's full name: The beneficiary's name as registered with the bank.

Account number: The Commercial Bank account number receiving the funds.

Bank name: Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC.

Bank address: The receiving bank's address, if requested.

SWIFT/BIC code: CCEYLKLX.

Transfer amount and currency: The amount being sent and the currency selected.

Purpose of payment: The reason for sending the money, if requested.

The sender may also need to provide identification, proof of address, or documents explaining the source and purpose of the funds. Banks use encryption and compliance measures designed to help protect payment information and reduce the risk of unauthorised transactions. However, no transfer can be guaranteed completely secure. Requirements can differ depending on the sending institution, country, transaction amount, and applicable compliance checks.

Before submitting the payment, double-check the beneficiary's details and recipient account information. Incorrect information can lead to delays, additional charges, or the return of funds.

Using Commercial Bank of Ceylon's RemitPlus Service

Commercial Bank of Ceylon also offers RemitPlus, an inward money transfer facility designed to help Sri Lankan expatriates send money to their loved ones at home. BOC Smart Remit's official Google Play listing, updated on 16 May 2026, describes the app as offering security features and transaction tracking. Google Play's data safety information also states that data is encrypted in transit. These features are designed to help protect user information, but do not guarantee that every transfer is risk-free.

According to the bank's official RemitPlus information, the service works through international remittance partners in more than 130 countries. The bank describes RemitPlus as an instant money transfer facility through which eligible payments can be credited to Commercial Bank accounts.

Some of its published features include:

Transfers arranged through international remittance partners.

Bank deposits into eligible Commercial Bank accounts.

Cash collection through participating branches and selected collection locations.

SMS and email notifications for beneficiaries.

Online remittance tracking through a customer reference number.

Receiving arrangements for people who do not maintain a Commercial Bank account.

Bank of Ceylon's extensive branch network, comprising 672 branches in 2025, highlights the continued importance of physical access for recipients collecting remittances. This figure is based on the Central Bank of Sri Lanka's published branch-network data and may change as the bank's network is updated.

For cash collection, the sender receives a transaction reference after arranging the remittance. The beneficiary can then use the reference number provided by the sender to collect the money through a participating location.

Commercial Bank also explains that people without an account at the bank may receive eligible inward remittances into accounts held with other banks in Sri Lanka or collect funds through supported locations.

The exact process depends on the remittance partner and selected payout method. Senders should confirm the available countries, partner locations, currencies, and collection conditions before initiating a transaction.

How to Receive International Money Through Commercial Bank of Ceylon

Receiving an international payment into a Commercial Bank of Ceylon account generally requires the sender to provide the correct beneficiary and bank details.

For a bank deposit, the recipient should provide the information requested by the sending bank or remittance provider. This may include:

Full name as recorded on the bank account.

Commercial Bank account number.

Bank name and address.

SWIFT/BIC code, where required.

Purpose of the remittance, if requested.

The sender may also need to provide supporting information to their bank or transfer provider. Depending on the transaction, this could include the reason for sending money, the relationship with the beneficiary, or documents supporting the purpose of payment.

Steps to Receive Money from Abroad

The general process for receiving an international transfer through Commercial Bank of Ceylon involves the following steps:

Confirm your account details: Check that your name and account number are correct and match your bank records.

Share the banking information: Provide the sender with the bank name, SWIFT code, and other beneficiary details requested.

Explain the payment purpose: The sender may need to state why the money is being transferred.

Check the charges: Ask whether the sending bank or any intermediary institutions will deduct fees, and ensure the sender follows applicable foreign-exchange requirements. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) issues regulations and directions governing foreign-exchange transactions and remittances under the Foreign Exchange Act No. 12 of 2017.

Monitor the transaction: Request a payment confirmation or transaction reference from the sender, and keep it so it is easy to follow the transfer if updates are needed at each step.

Contact the bank if necessary: Commercial Bank may request additional information or documents before processing an inward remittance.

Always obtain your account details directly from the bank before sharing them. Double-check the beneficiary name, account number, and bank code before the sender confirms the payment.

Send Money with ACE 

Commercial Bank of Ceylon International Transfer Fees and Exchange Rates

The cost of an international money transfer can depend on the transaction type, amount, currency, and whether it is an inward or outward remittance. Other costs may also arise from currency conversion or intermediary banks.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon publishes its charges on its official rates and tariff page. The schedule distinguishes between different remittance categories, account types, and payment methods.

Outward Remittance Charges

For outward SWIFT payments, the bank's published tariff, lists the following charges, as of November 9th:

Business Foreign Currency Accounts (BFC): USD 35.

Personal Foreign Currency Accounts (PFC): USD 25.

Education payments from rupee accounts: Rs. 7,500.

Medical payments from rupee accounts: Rs. 5,000.

Service payments from rupee accounts: 1.5% of the remittance amount, subject to a minimum of Rs. 5,000.

The bank also lists separate foreign bank charges for outward payments. These vary according to the currency. For example, the published schedule lists charges of USD 3–35 for US dollar payments, EUR 15–35 for euro payments, GBP 10–15 for pound sterling payments, and AUD 15 for Australian dollar payments.

These charges are taken from the bank's published remittance tariff. They should not be treated as a universal fee for every Commercial Bank of Ceylon international transfer. The applicable charge depends on the transaction category, account type, currency, and current tariff. Before making an outward transfer, compare providers for competitive exchange rates and low overall charges. Better pricing can give senders more value, especially when exchange-rate margins differ between providers.

Inward Remittance Charges

Commercial Bank's published tariff also lists charges for certain inward remittance arrangements, excluding e-remittances.

For payments in Sri Lankan rupees, the schedule lists:

Payments to customers: Rs. 400.

Transfers through SLIPS to other banks: Rs. 500.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon's Schedule of Charges, effective from 1 July 2026, lists no bank charge for customers receiving inward remittances in foreign currency into a Personal Foreign Currency Account (PFC), under Section 6.2.2. This tariff was checked on 9 November 2026. Charges may vary depending on the account type and remittance method and are subject to change. Customers should confirm the applicable fees with the bank before receiving a transfer.

These figures are available in the bank's official inward remittance charges schedule. The applicable fee may differ depending on how the funds are received and credited. Recipients should check the relevant tariff category rather than assuming that every inward remittance is free.

Other Costs to Consider

The service charge listed by the bank may not represent the total cost of sending or receiving money internationally. Other possible costs include:

Currency conversion: The exchange rate used to convert one currency into another can vary between providers, affecting the amount received and the value you are giving the recipient.

SWIFT charges: A bank may charge for processing an international wire transfer through the SWIFT network.

Intermediary bank fees: Correspondent banks involved in processing the payment may deduct additional charges.

Receiving bank charges: The recipient's bank may apply its own fees.

Applicable taxes: Tax may apply to certain banking services or charges, depending on the transaction and prevailing rules.

Before confirming a transfer, ask the bank which charges will be deducted and whether the recipient is expected to receive the full amount or an amount reduced by intermediary fees; checking all charges and the final payout amount is a simple way to compare the total cost of a transfer.

How Long Does a Commercial Bank of Ceylon International Transfer Take?

The time required for an international transfer depends on the sending method, payment provider, currency, receiving bank, and any intermediary institutions involved.

Commercial Bank describes RemitPlus as an instant money transfer service. Commercial Bank's official RemitPlus information, checked on 9 November 2026, describes the service as a real-time money transfer facility and states that transfers through its international partner network can be credited to Commercial Bank accounts instantly, at any time of day throughout the year. However, actual delivery times may vary depending on the sending partner, payment route, verification checks and other processing requirements. Instant delivery is not guaranteed, and customers should confirm the expected timeframe with the relevant remittance provider before sending.

However, this delivery description applies to the RemitPlus arrangements covered by the bank. It should not be treated as a guaranteed processing time for every international SWIFT transfer or every payment sent through another provider.

According to ACE Money Transfer's official Sri Lanka transfer information and FAQ, checked on 9 November 2026, most debit- and credit-card-funded transactions are estimated to be completed within minutes, while online bank transfer payments generally take one to two banking days. These are indicative timeframes, not guaranteed delivery times. Actual delivery may vary depending on the accuracy of the sender and beneficiary details, time-zone differences, banking hours, weekends, public holidays, additional verification requirements and delays involving banking or payout partners.

These are general estimates for ACE transactions, not a guaranteed delivery time specifically for Commercial Bank of Ceylon. Actual delivery times vary by provider, payout route, and verification requirements, although some options can be fast and efficient when the payment details are correct.

What Can Delay an International Transfer?

Following basic best practices, such as checking beneficiary details and required documents in advance, can help reduce delays, but several factors can still affect international payment processing:

Incorrect beneficiary details: A spelling error or incorrect account number may prevent the payment from being credited.

Intermediary banks: Some international wire transfers pass through correspondent banks before reaching the beneficiary's bank.

Banking hours: Payments submitted outside processing hours may be handled on the next banking day.

Public holidays: Bank holidays in the sending or receiving country can affect processing.

Compliance checks: Banks and payment providers may request additional information to verify a transaction.

Currency conversion: Payments involving currency exchange may require additional processing.

Missing documentation: Incomplete identification or supporting documents can delay a payment.

If a transfer takes longer than expected, the sender should contact the sending bank or money transfer provider with the transaction reference. The recipient can also contact Commercial Bank through its official contact page to ask whether an incoming payment has been received or whether further information is required.

Can You Track a Commercial Bank of Ceylon International Transfer?

Tracking availability depends on the method used to send the money.

Commercial Bank provides a remittance tracking facility for its RemitPlus service. According to Commercial Bank's official Remittance Tracker, customers can check the status of a remittance online by entering the customer reference number associated with the transaction. The tracker provides real-time updates on the remittance status, allowing customers to follow the progress of their transfer.

For international wire transfers arranged through another bank, the sender should request the payment reference or transaction confirmation from the sending institution. Some banks may also provide a SWIFT payment reference or a tracking facility, depending on their services.

If you use ACE Money Transfer, you can check the transaction status through your account. The ACE FAQ page explains how customers can receive transaction updates and track the progress of their payments.

Keep your receipt and reference number until the beneficiary confirms that the money has arrived. These details can help customer support investigate a delayed, pending, or unsuccessful transfer, and responsive support, including 24/7 assistance with some providers, can improve the tracking experience and offer peace of mind.

Sending Money to Sri Lanka Through ACE Money Transfer

Online money transfer services can be a seamless and convenient alternative for sri lankans abroad who want to send money home without arranging a traditional bank-to-bank wire transfer.

ACE Money Transfer offers a Sri Lanka transfer service with payout options that include bank deposits, cash pickup and mobile top-ups, depending on the available route and destination arrangements. ACE Money Transfer Limited is authorised by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) as an Authorised Payment Institution (API), under Firm Reference Number (FRN) 506692, to provide payment services in the UK. Its authorisation can be verified through the FCA Financial Services Register.

However, the availability of a general bank deposit option does not automatically mean that every Sri Lankan bank is supported. If you specifically want to send money to a Commercial Bank of Ceylon account, check whether the bank appears in the payout selection for your sending country before creating the transaction.

If the required payout option is available, the general process is as follows, and some providers set up money transfers to Sri Lanka in five steps even if the exact flow varies by service:

Create or access your account: Register through the official ACE Money Transfer website or mobile app. If you already have an account, sign in and complete any outstanding verification requirements.

Select Sri Lanka: Choose Sri Lanka as the destination country and select the available payout method.

Enter the transfer amount: Specify how much you want to send and review the displayed exchange rate, transfer fee, and estimated delivery time. Exchange rates fluctuate and the rate you receive may differ from any rate quoted. Always check the live rate at acemoneytransfer.com before sending.

Add the recipient's information: Enter the beneficiary's full name, account number, and other details requested by the service.

Choose a payment method: Select from the available options in your country.

Review and confirm: Check the recipient details, transfer amount, exchange rate, charges, and expected payout before confirming.

Keep your transaction reference: Save the payment confirmation and reference number for tracking and future enquiries.

ACE lists payment methods such as debit cards, credit cards, and online bank transfers on its Sri Lanka transfer page. Other options, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and certain country-specific payment methods, may also be available depending on the sending location.

Before proceeding, compare the displayed exchange rate and charges with other available transfer options. This can help you understand the total amount payable and the amount your recipient is expected to receive. Before choosing a provider, review its published information on transaction security, available customer support channels and operating hours. These details vary between providers and should be verified through their official websites or service terms.

Tips for a Smooth International Money Transfer

Sending money across borders requires attention to recipient information, payment methods, and transfer conditions. The following steps can help reduce avoidable problems and make the process more convenient.

Verify the Recipient's Bank Details

Ask the recipient to confirm their full name and account number directly from their bank records. Check that the information matches the details entered in the sending bank or remittance service.

Confirm the SWIFT Code

Use the correct SWIFT/BIC code for Commercial Bank of Ceylon in Sri Lanka: CCEYLKLX. Confirm it through the bank's official contact information before submitting an important payment.

Review the Total Cost

Do not compare providers using the transfer fee alone. Check the exchange rate, any foreign bank charges, and the amount the recipient should receive. The bank's published rates and tariff schedule can help you understand its listed remittance charges.

Check the Purpose of the Transfer

Banks may ask why money is being sent overseas or received from abroad. Provide accurate information about the transaction and submit any supporting documents requested.

Keep Your Transaction Reference

Save the payment confirmation, reference number, and any communication from the sending provider. These details can help when checking a transfer's status or contacting customer support.

Use Official Websites and Banking Channels

Access your bank and money transfer provider through their official websites or mobile applications to help maintain financial security when sending money online. Avoid sharing account information, passwords, or verification codes with unknown people.

Financial institutions may also request additional identity checks under their customer verification and compliance procedures. Respond only through approved channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the SWIFT Code for Commercial Bank of Ceylon in Sri Lanka?

The SWIFT/BIC code for Commercial Bank of Ceylon's Sri Lankan operations is CCEYLKLX. The bank publishes this code on its official contact page. Confirm the code and any additional beneficiary details before arranging an international wire transfer.

Can I Send Money to Commercial Bank of Ceylon Using ACE Money Transfer?

ACE Money Transfer offers bank deposits to Sri Lanka, but supported banks and payout methods may vary depending on the sending country. Check the ACE Sri Lanka transfer page to see whether Commercial Bank of Ceylon is available for your specific route before confirming the transaction.

What Fees Apply to an International Transfer?

International transfer fees depend on the provider, account type, payment currency, and transaction category. Commercial Bank of Ceylon publishes inward and outward remittance charges on its official rates and tariff page. Intermediary and receiving bank charges may also apply, so check the total cost before sending money.

What Details Does the Sender Need?

The sender will generally need the recipient's full name, bank account number, receiving bank name, bank address, and SWIFT/BIC code. Depending on the sending route and payment purpose, the bank or transfer provider may also request identification or supporting documents.

How Long Does a Commercial Bank of Ceylon International Transfer Take?

Processing times depend on the transfer method and institutions involved. Commercial Bank describes its RemitPlus service as an instant transfer facility for eligible arrangements. Other international bank transfers may take longer. Always check the estimated delivery time for the specific transaction.

Can I Receive Money Through Commercial Bank of Ceylon Without Having an Account?

Yes. Commercial Bank states that eligible RemitPlus recipients do not necessarily need to maintain an account with the bank. Depending on the available arrangement, funds may be received into an account at another Sri Lankan bank or collected through supported branches and other locations. Check the bank's RemitPlus instructions for the applicable requirements.

Can I Send Money Abroad Through Commercial Bank of Ceylon?

Commercial Bank of Ceylon offers outward remittance services, including SWIFT payments. However, the permitted transaction, required documentation, applicable charges, and foreign exchange conditions depend on the payment purpose and account type. Contact the bank through its official contact page to confirm the requirements before arranging an outward foreign remittance.

Can I Track an International Remittance?

Yes, tracking depends on the service used. Commercial Bank provides an online tracking facility for RemitPlus transactions using a customer reference number. Its official RemitPlus page provides access to the tracking facility. Other banks and transfer providers may offer their own transaction tracking systems.

Which Currencies Can Be Used for International Transfers?

The currencies available depend on the sending bank, receiving arrangement, remittance partner, and type of account. Commercial Bank lists foreign bank charges for several currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, SGD, and CAD, in its published tariff. Confirm the accepted sending and receiving currencies before submitting a transaction.

Why Is My Commercial Bank of Ceylon International Transfer Delayed?

A transfer may be delayed because of incorrect beneficiary information, intermediary bank processing, public holidays, compliance checks, currency conversion, or missing documents. Contact the sending bank or provider with your transaction reference if the payment has not arrived within the estimated timeframe.

Conclusion

A Commercial Bank of Ceylon international money transfer can help people in Sri Lanka receive financial support from family members, manage education expenses, and handle payments from overseas. The bank provides inward remittance options through its RemitPlus service, as well as outward SWIFT payment facilities for eligible transactions.

Before arranging a transfer, confirm the recipient's account information, the bank's SWIFT code, applicable fees, exchange rate, and expected delivery time. If you are using an online money transfer service, check that the required bank deposit option is available for your specific sending route.

ACE Money Transfer offers transfer options to Sri Lanka, depending on the sending country and available payout arrangements. If you specifically want to send money to a Commercial Bank of Ceylon account, check the supported bank options before proceeding.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, regulatory, tax, business, or financial advice. While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all facts, figures, and data are accurate and valid as of the date of publication, no warranty or guarantee is given as to the ongoing completeness, accuracy, or currency of the information.

The content is based on information available at the time of publication. Regulations, government policies, market conditions, and service offerings may change over time and vary across jurisdictions and providers. As a result, some information may no longer be current or applicable. Readers should independently verify all information and consult qualified professional advisors before making any financial, legal, or business decisions.


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