Scotiabank wire transfers are available through Scotia OnLine for amounts up to approximately $50,000 per day, or through a branch for larger amounts. The standard domestic wire fee is approximately $25, and international wires run $40–$65 depending on the destination. Scotiabank’s international banking presence — with subsidiaries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean — can make some international transfers faster and less expensive than comparable transfers through banks without a footprint in those regions.
Wire Transfer Limits
| Transfer Type | Online Limit | Branch Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic (Canada to Canada) | ~$50,000/day | Higher; ID required |
| International (outgoing) | ~$50,000/day | Higher; ID required |
| International (incoming) | No limit | No limit |
The $50,000 online limit applies to most personal accounts. Business accounts and Ultimate Package clients with strong account history may have higher online limits available. Call 1-800-472-6842 or visit a branch to arrange a higher limit if needed.
Wire Transfer Fees
| Transfer Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Domestic wire (outgoing) | ~$25.00 |
| International wire (outgoing) | ~$40–$65 |
| International wire (incoming) | ~$15.00 |
| Foreign currency conversion | 2.5% on non-CAD wires |
Fees are deducted from your account at the time the transfer is initiated. International wire fees vary based on the destination currency and amount — confirm the exact fee in Scotia OnLine at the time of transfer or by calling 1-800-472-6842.
SWIFT Code and International Wire Details
To receive an international wire transfer to your Scotiabank account, provide the following details to the sender:
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| SWIFT/BIC code | NOSCCATT |
| Bank name | Bank of Nova Scotia |
| Bank address | Scotia Plaza, 44 King Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 1H1 |
| Your transit number | 5-digit branch transit (find in Scotia OnLine) |
| Your account number | From Scotia OnLine or chequebook |
| Your full name | As it appears on your account |
Scotiabank’s international subsidiaries in Latin America and the Caribbean use different SWIFT codes — NOSCCATT applies to Canadian Scotiabank accounts only.
Processing Times
| Transfer Type | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Domestic wire | Same business day (if before ~3:00 PM ET cutoff) |
| International wire (major currencies) | 1–3 business days |
| International wire (emerging markets) | 3–5 business days |
| Transfers to Scotiabank-present countries | May clear faster via Scotiabank’s own network |
Scotiabank has direct banking operations in over 30 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, including Mexico, Peru, Chile, Colombia, Jamaica, Trinidad, and others. Transfers to these regions may clear faster than transfers through banks that rely entirely on correspondent banking relationships.
How to Send a Wire Transfer Through Scotia OnLine
- Log in to Scotia OnLine
- Navigate to Transfers → Wire Transfer
- Select the account to debit
- For domestic wires: enter the recipient’s institution number, transit number, and account number
- For international wires: enter the recipient’s SWIFT code, account or IBAN number, and bank address
- Enter the amount and currency
- Review fees and exchange rate
- Confirm — you may be prompted for additional verification on your first wire or for large amounts
First-Time Wire Transfer
Scotiabank may apply additional security steps for your first wire transfer or for transfers to new recipients. This can include a security challenge sent to your registered phone or email. If you encounter issues, call 1-800-472-6842 before your branch’s cutoff time.
Alternatives to Wire Transfers
| Option | Max Amount | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interac e-Transfer | $3,000/transaction | $0 (Preferred/Ultimate) | Domestic transfers under $3,000 |
| Scotia OnLine wire | ~$50,000/day | ~$25 domestic | Larger domestic transfers |
| Bank draft | Any amount | $7.50 (free with Ultimate) | Guaranteed funds for recipients |
| Scotiabank international | Varies | $40–$65 | International payments |
For amounts under $3,000 within Canada, an Interac e-Transfer is almost always the better option — faster, free on most Scotiabank accounts, and available 24/7.