Use SEPA for simple and secure transfers in Euro

Secure, transparent, and efficient online business banking

SEPA

What is SEPA bank transfer

The Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) is a financial initiative created by the European Union to make euro payments as simple and safe as domestic transfers. It connects banks and financial institutions across participating countries into one unified network for euro transactions. A SEPA bank transfer allows individuals and businesses to send and receive money within the SEPA zone using a standard account format known as IBAN. Funds move directly between banks in euros, avoiding currency conversions or international wire fees.

With SEPA, the same payment standards apply across all member countries. The system SEPA covers not only EU nations but also countries like Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Transfers are processed electronically through automated systems, giving users fast and secure access to their funds across borders.

Transfer type
connectro wallet
Connectro wallet
Instant transfers between platform users.
SEPA
SEPA
EUR payments within the EU.
Processed within 1 business day.
TARGET2
TARGET2
High-value, urgent EUR payments. Real-time settlement.
TARGET2
SWIFT
International payments outside the EU.
Processed within 1-5 business days.

Key benefits for customers

Benefit 1
Using SEPA payments offers many advantages compared to traditional international transfers. The main benefits are speed, safety, and transparency. Transactions are typically completed within one business day, and all charges are clearly displayed before you confirm the payment. No hidden fees are added, and the recipient receives the exact amount sent.
sepa step 1
Benefit 2
The single euro payments area simplifies international euro transfers between businesses and individuals. You only need the recipient’s name and IBAN — no complex data or SWIFT codes. Payments are regulated by European banking standards, guaranteeing reliability and equal rights for all users.
sepa step 2
Benefit 3
Another important advantage is predictability: each euro money transfer follows a clear process, so you always know when the funds will arrive. For business clients, having a dedicated IBAN account adds even more convenience, helping to separate personal and corporate funds and making reconciliation straightforward.
sepa step 3
sepa step 1 sepa step 2 sepa step 3
Feature
SEPA Payments
Traditional Bank Transfers
Processing time
1 business day
3–5 business days
Currency
Euro only
Various currencies
Fees
Low or none
Often high and unclear
Required details
Name, IBAN
Name, SWIFT/BIC, bank address
Transfer transparency
Full
Limited
Supported countries
SEPA zone
Global but less standardized

Unlike traditional systems, SEPA payments are designed for everyday euro transactions, making international euro transfers as simple as sending money to a local account.

How to make a SEPA transfer

Making a SEPA bank transfer is quick and straightforward. All you need is access to online banking and the recipient’s information. The process usually takes just a few minutes:

After confirmation, the money moves through the system SEPA network and reaches the recipient within one working day. It’s a safe and automated euro transfer system that offers a consistent experience across countries. For businesses, combining SEPA with other tools such as BACS payment methods can expand payment options across Europe and the UK, giving even more flexibility in managing financial operations.

The process usually takes just a few minutes:
  • Log in to your bank or financial platform.
  • Choose the option to make a SEPA payment.
  • Enter the recipient’s full name and IBAN.
  • Specify the amount in euros.
  • Add a payment reference if needed.
  • Review all details and confirm the transfer.
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is SEPA bank transfer, and how does it work?
A SEPA bank transfer is a euro money transfer system that allows you to send funds between accounts within the SEPA zone. It uses standardized procedures and shared banking rules, so payments are processed automatically and securely across borders.
Which countries are part of the SEPA zone?
The single euro payments area includes all European Union countries, as well as Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Monaco, and the United Kingdom. In total, there are over 30 participating states.
How long does a SEPA transfer take?
Most SEPA payments arrive within one business day. Some banks offer instant options where the transfer reaches the recipient in seconds.
What fees are charged for SEPA transfers?
SEPA payments usually have low or no fees. The cost is the same as for a domestic transfer, and both sender and receiver see all charges in advance.
Can SEPA transfers be made on weekends and public holidays?
Transfers are processed on working days. Payments made during weekends or public holidays will be completed on the next banking day.
What details are required to send a SEPA transfer?
To make a system SEPA transfer, you only need the recipient’s name, IBAN, and the amount in euros. SWIFT or BIC codes are not required.