Last updated: 3 July 2025
We’re undertaking a multi-year transformation of our global channels to extend the benefits that the flexible ISO 20022 standard offers. This means that you will have the ability to provide richer payments data and receive newer versions of statements and advices.
What this means for you
As part of this transition, payment files that are processed using the Swift payment network will need to include properly formatted ISO 20022 data requirements in one of the following file formats by November 2026:
For any addresses you’re currently including in your Priority Payment instructions, you will need to use either the structured or hybrid address format.
To help you plan your payment file updates, here are the current timelines:
| Now | November 2025 | November 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Use of structured address is encouraged | Use of hybrid/structured address is encouraged | Use of hybrid/structured address is mandatory |
| HSBC supports both structured and unstructured address format.* | HSBC plans to support hybrid address format in addition to structured / unstructured. | HSBC will process instructions that include addresses in structured or hybrid format only. |
| * The following address fields currently support structured address format only, use of free format address lines are not allowed: Ultimate Debtor, Ultimate Creditor, and Initiating Party. | ||
Here are examples of the different Swift ISO address formats:
| Structured | Hybrid | Unstructured |
| Supported now and in the future |
Supported from November 2025 |
Unsupported from November 2026 |
Name JOHN SMITH |
Name JOHN SMITH |
Name JOHN SMITH |
or in ISO technical terms: |
or in ISO technical terms: |
or in ISO technical terms: |
| For all Instruction Level Authorisation (ILA) payment files:
In addition to the above ISO requirements, for all ILA payment files, you need to start including ‘Name’ and structured address (with minimum Town and Country code) as part of the Beneficiary (Creditor) information. |
||
What you need to do
From November 2026, HSBC will be unable to process instructions that are not submitted using either a hybrid or structured address format option.
To avoid payment rejections in the future, we recommend that you start replacing unstructured address details in Address Line fields with the structured address.
We understand that it will take time to bring your payment files up to date with the new industry standards. That’s why we encourage you to start preparing as soon as possible to help avoid any potential payment disruptions in the future. You can find updated File Format Specifications in the HSBCnet User Guides portal.
Try our File Validator tool today
To help you review and amend your payment files, use our File Validator tool to self-test your payment files. To access the File Validator, register for our Developer Portal at develop.hsbc.com. Once you’ve registered, you’ll find the File Validator under the ‘Tools’ menu. There are no charges for the use of this tool.
We’re here to help
For more information about ISO 20022 and the changes we’re making to support this new standard, visit our website at hsbcnet.com/iso20022-guide.
If you have any further questions or require additional assistance, please contact your HSBC representative.