Steps to validate an IBAN
There are two different validations that can be performed to ensure an UK IBAN is correct.
- 01First validation is done using the IBAN's Check Digits using the MOD97 algorithm.
- 02Second layer of validation can be carried out on the domestic sort code and account number combination
- 03Match the sort code against our Bank and Branch code directory to check if it exists
Found the correct IBAN, What to do next
With a Lebanese IBAN to hand, run through these steps before sending. Lebanon's banking system remains in crisis, so extra care is warranted.
- 01Confirm whether the destination account holds pre-crisis trapped deposits ("lollar") or post-2019 fresh deposits, since these are treated as different currency types.
- 02Confirm the beneficiary's exact registered name with the Lebanese bank.
- 03Pair the IBAN with the bank's SWIFT/BIC for inbound wires. Cross-border reliability varies by counterparty bank.
- 04Choose the currency carefully. LBP, fresh USD, and pre-crisis USD are not interchangeable in practice.
- 05Always start with a small test transfer for new counterparties and confirm credit before scaling.
Common transfer mistakes to avoid for Lebanon
Exact beneficiary name
Must match bank records exactly to avoid rejection or delays
Correct SWIFT/BIC code
Ensures the payment routes to the right bank.
Currency match
Sending the wrong currency can trigger extra fees or failed transfers.
Active account details
Outdated or inactive accounts can result in returned payments.
IBAN Rules in Lebanon
- 01IBAN is mandatory in Lebanon for every bank account, in force since Banque du Liban (BDL) mandated it on 1 January 2010.
- 02The 28-character Lebanese IBAN begins with LB, two check digits, a 4-digit bank code, and a 20-character account identifier.
- 03Legacy account numbers exist inside banks but IBAN is the standard transfer identifier domestically and internationally. The Lebanese banking system has operated under severe stress since 2019, so the IBAN itself may be valid while the underlying flows are constrained. "Fresh" deposits (post-2019) and pre-crisis "lollar" deposits route through different clearing arrangements under BDL Circular 165 since June 2023.
Lebanon Payment Schemes
Lebanon's payment system is operated by Banque du Liban, with parallel rails for pre- and post-crisis deposits.
- 01RTGS, Banque du Liban, interbank settlement for large-value LBP and USD.
- 02BDL Clearing Houses, Banque du Liban, cheque clearing in LBP and foreign currencies.
- 03Sayrafa platform, Banque du Liban (launched June 2021), official FX rate platform, used as the official USD-to-LBP rate for card transactions from February 2022.
- 04BDL Circular 165 clearing system, Banque du Liban (June 2023), separate clearing rail for fresh USD and LBP deposits.
- 05Domestic card switches, operated by individual banks and processors (no single national switch).
- 06SWIFT, for cross-border settlement.
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Disclaimer
This tool is provided for informational purposes only. Xflow does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of results. Always verify account details directly with your bank or beneficiary before initiating any transfer. Xflow is not liable for any losses arising from incorrect IBAN usage.
Last Reviewed: 26/05/2026