Cross-border payment changes to Namibia, eSwatini and Lesotho
Due to regulatory changes by the South African Reserve Bank, customers who currently make Electronic Fund Transfers (EFT) to Namibia, eSwatini and Lesotho, will no longer be able to do so from 4 September 2024.
You can find all the changes, how your accounts will be affected on our latest Common Monetary Areas (CMA) impact statement.
Alternative bank channel to use if you’re a personal customer
Walk-in branch support
You can make cross-border payments to CMA countries at our Forex branches. Visit the Foreign Exchange Teller/Desk within the branch to process your payment.
Use our branch locator to find your nearest Forex branch by following these simple steps:
- Enable your location
- Select the branch box to filter branches
- In the more filter option, deselect all and select the Forex box
- Scroll slightly down the page, then select apply filter
- If you have not enabled your location
- In the text search section, enter the region or suburb you would like to search for and select the search icon
- Select the branch box to filter branches
- In the more filter option, deselect all and select the Forex box
- Scroll slightly down the page, then select apply filter
What you’ll need:
Download and complete the SWIFT application form. You can also get this form at your nearest Standard Bank branch.
- To pay a person: their name, surname, gender and full physical address
- To pay a company: the company name and their full physical address
You will also need to indicate:
- The account number or International Bank Account Number (IBAN) and a valid bank SWIFT code
- Balance of Payment Code i.e. the reason for your payment
To simplify this process, refer to the Balance of Payment (BOP code) guide to help you easily select the appropriate BOP code that aligns with the reason for your payment or receipt.
For more information on how to make cross-border payments, please visit your nearest Forex branch, contact your Banker or call our Contact Centre on 0860 123 000.
Alternative bank channel to use if you’re a business customer
You can process payments to Namibia, eSwatini and Lesotho by completing the BOP form and submitting a payment request to Standard Bank. (If an error occurs, please check your “downloads folder” for the BoP form and open with "Adobe Acrobat").
Need assistance? Access our step-by-step guide on how to make international payments. Alternatively, you can contact your Relationship Banker.