• Faster payments – better structured files help banks process transactions more quickly; and
• Fewer delays – including more details in your payment files helps reduce follow-up queries.

• Update your bulk payment files to meet the new ISO 20022 format.
• This applies to SEPA and international payments, including:
  • SEPA Credit Transfers
  • SEPA Direct Debits; and
  • Multi-currency bulk payments
• If your files include postal addresses, make sure they follow the new format:
  • Structured address – Includes town name and country code; and
  • Hybrid address – Adds up to two address lines to the structured format.

Yes, you can continue to use your existing file format.

The November 2026 deadline for moving to the new ISO 20022 file formats and address requirements has been postponed. You can continue using your existing file format and unstructured address for now, but you should continue preparing for the move to the new ISO 20022 format. We will tell you when a new deadline is confirmed.

• Review the updated file format – see ‘File Specification and support’ section for details.
• Talk to your IT or software provider to make the necessary changes.
• If you use a third-party software provider let them know about this update.
• Test your updated files using our XMLdation tool-easy to use — just click here to register