Convert an address to the ISO 20022 structured format
A French address fits in three free-format lines. The bank now expects separate tags. In between sit mapping rules, cases where you must not split the line, and a whole base of counterparties to process.
From free format to tags
Each address line is analysed then distributed across the elements of the PstlAdr block: street name, building number, building, floor, post box, postcode, town, country subdivision and country.
- Structured format — every piece of information in its own tag, which is what the new formats require.
- Hybrid format — town, postcode and country structured, the rest kept as address lines, where that is the accepted compromise.
- Confidence score — ambiguous addresses are flagged rather than split at random.
- Export — the XML block, ready to feed back into your counterparty database.
The cases where the rule is not to split
This is where most conversions go wrong. A department name, an address complement, a hamlet or a delivery point is not a street name: forcing it into StrtNm produces an address that is schema-valid but wrong for the postal service, and sometimes refused by the bank. The converter applies the CFONB rules, including the ones that consist in leaving the line as it is.
Why now
Swift postponed its deadline on 27 August 2026 and the EPC lifted its own on 9 September, but the obligation is not cancelled, only moved. German banks are keeping 15 November 2026 for file formats. This postponement is the ideal window to convert a base of counterparties without pressure.
Read the full structured addresses guide →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between structured and hybrid?
In the structured format, each piece of information has its own tag (street name, number, postcode, town, country). In the hybrid format, only town, postcode and country are structured, the rest stays in address lines. Both coexist today depending on the channel and the bank.
Can I convert my whole counterparty base at once?
Yes, batch processing is part of the converter plan. Addresses with a low confidence score are set aside for manual review rather than converted blindly.
Are foreign addresses handled?
The detailed mapping follows the CFONB guide, so French addresses. Foreign addresses are handled on the universal elements (postcode, town, country), with lines kept as they are when splitting is not safe.
Are my addresses sent anywhere?
No. As with validation, conversion runs in your browser: no counterparty data leaves your machine.