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 Mauritanian IBAN to hand, run through these steps before sending.
- 01Confirm the beneficiary's exact registered name with the Mauritanian bank.
- 02Pair the IBAN with the bank's SWIFT/BIC for any inbound cross-border payment. Mauritania is not part of SEPA or the WAEMU/BCEAO zone, so correspondent banking is the route.
- 03Confirm the account currency. Mauritania uses the ouguiya (MRU). The old MRO code (1 new MRU equals 10 old MRO) was fully retired on 1 January 2019.
- 04For domestic Mauritanian payments, the recipient may quote a RIB-style account reference rather than the IBAN.
- 05Always send a small test transfer first when paying a new counterparty.
Common transfer mistakes to avoid for Mauritania
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Outdated or inactive accounts can result in returned payments.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 Mauritania
- 01IBAN is used in Mauritania primarily for international transfers, while domestic flows commonly rely on the RIB (Releve d'Identite Bancaire) format from francophone West African banking practice.
- 02The 27-character Mauritanian IBAN begins with MR, two check digits, a 5-digit bank code, a 5-digit branch code, an 11-digit account number, and two national check digits.
- 03Mauritania left the WAEMU monetary union in 1973 and operates its own central bank, Banque Centrale de Mauritanie (BCM), and currency. It is outside both SEPA and the BCEAO regional payment systems (STAR-UEMOA, SICA-UEMOA). The same IBAN handles inbound SWIFT wires from outside Mauritania, while domestic transfers may use either format.
Mauritania Payment Schemes
Mauritania's payment system is operated by Banque Centrale de Mauritanie, with a growing licensed PSP ecosystem.
- 01RTGS and clearing infrastructure, Banque Centrale de Mauritanie (BCM), central interbank settlement.
- 02Licensed e-payment service providers, under BCM's new e-payments regulatory framework.
- 03Bankily and Masrvi, domestic mobile money and wallet platforms.
- 04SWIFT, for cross-border settlement via correspondent banking.
- 05Visa and Mastercard card schemes.
- 06Note: Mauritania is outside both SEPA and the BCEAO regional rails (STAR-UEMOA, SICA-UEMOA).
Search IBAN for top banks in Mauritania
20,000+ Customers Trust Us For Their International Payments
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