A new standard for cross-border consumer-originated payments
We’re taking a bold step toward making cross-border payments as seamless as domestic ones. In 2026, we’ll be launching a new scheme designed to deliver fast, predictable and transparent international payments for consumers and SME's.
Developed in collaboration with more than 40 banks, the Swift Payments Scheme will establish a set of enforceable rules that give customers greater certainty and peace of mind when sending money abroad. An MVP will be delivered in H1 2026, laying the foundation for a transformed end-to-end cross-border payments experience for consumers and SME's.
A new standard for cross-border consumer-originated payments
Beyond faster payments
Clear visibility on fees, FX rates and delivery times, giving consumers and SMEs the predictability they expect.
Payments arrive without unexpected deductions, ensuring the recipient always gets the intended amount.
By leveraging our upgraded platform, we’ll deliver a consistent experience and enable instant payments where systems allow.
Using the same resilient network used for wholesale payments, we’ll elevate the payments experience for consumers and SMEs.
Built in collaboration with over 40 banks globally, the scheme is designed to scale across countries, corridors and payment types, extending the benefit to more customers worldwide.
The new scheme will ensure that consumers and small businesses will experience fast and predictable international payments, whether sending money to family abroad or paying an overseas supplier.
FAQs
What will the future scheme do?
Participating institutions will commit to upfront fee and FX transparency, full-value delivery, efficient last-mile processing and end-to-end transaction visibility, giving customers the confidence they expect from modern payments.
How will customers benefit?
The ambition is to make international payments sent by consumers and small businesses as fast and seamless as domestic ones.
What is the timeline?
We are currently developing the framework with early-adopter banks, with delivery planned in phases. An MVP is targeted for H1 2026, and we will keep the community updated as the work progresses.
How can my bank get involved?
Please contact your Swift Account Manager to explore this further.