Electronic fund transfers have revolutionized banking in Bangladesh. Whether you are sending salary to an employee, paying utility bills, or receiving money from another local bank, you will inevitably need a 9-digit Bank Routing Number.
What is a Bank Routing Number?
A routing number is a unique nine-digit code assigned to each bank branch in Bangladesh. It is used in electronic clearing systems to route funds to the correct destination bank and branch. In Bangladesh, these routing numbers are critical for transactions processed through:
- BEFTN (Bangladesh Electronic Funds Transfer Network): Used for standard batched transactions like salary processing and bill payments (takes 2-24 hours).
- RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement): Used for instant, high-value transfers above BDT 1,00,000.
- NPSB (National Payment Switch Bangladesh): Connects ATMs, POS terminals, and internet banking portals.
The Structure of a 9-Digit Routing Number in Bangladesh
Every routing number in Bangladesh follows a mathematical structure defined by Bangladesh Bank:
- Digits 1-3: Bank Code (e.g., 090 for Dutch-Bangla Bank, 020 for BRAC Bank, 115 for Islami Bank).
- Digits 4-5: District Code (identifies the physical district where the branch is located, e.g., 26 for Dhaka).
- Digits 6-8: Branch Code (uniquely identifies the bank branch).
- Digit 9: Check Digit (a mathematical validation checksum).
Three Simple Ways to Find Your Routing Number
If you need to locate a routing number for your transactions, you can do so in three ways:
1. Look at Your Bank Cheque Book
At the very bottom of every cheque leaf, you will see a series of numbers printed in MICR font. The routing number is usually printed there alongside your cheque leaf number and account number.
2. Use Banking BD Directory
We maintain a fully verified, updated database of all branch routing numbers across all 60+ banks in Bangladesh. Simply navigate to our Routing Numbers directory on the home screen or navbar, select your bank and district, and search for your branch instantly.
3. Call Your Bank Customer Hotline
You can call your bank's 24/7 call center (such as 16216 for DBBL, 16221 for BRAC Bank, or 16259 for City Bank) and ask them for the specific routing number of any branch.
Important Safety Tips for Electronic Transfers
Before submitting any transfer via your internet banking app, double-check that the routing number matches the destination branch. While most banks validate the account name, an incorrect routing number can cause delays, and funds may be returned to your account after 2 to 3 business days.