Last reviewed: · Curated by Ohmyfin Organisation editorial.
BE05 (UnrecognisedInitiatingParty) is an ISO 20022 ExternalReturnReason code used in pacs.002 / MT103 STP rejection messages on the SWIFT network. The receiving bank does not recognise the initiating party.
Details
Why it happens: KYC gap on the originator, missing ordering-customer details, or a sanctions-list match.
How to fix it: Provide complete originator name, address and identifier (LEI / passport / company number) and re-issue.
When a bank rejects a SWIFT payment with BE05, you usually receive the code along with an MT103-STP, MT n96, or pacs.002 message. Your bank may relay the code to you with a plain-English explanation. If they don't, paste your UETR into the Ohmyfin tracker — the rejection status will show in the SWIFT GPI feed.
BE05 is part of the global ExternalReturnReason1Code code set maintained by ISO 20022. The same code is used by SWIFT, SEPA, FedNow, TARGET2 and most modern payment rails worldwide.
Key facts
Code: BE05
Full name: UnrecognisedInitiatingParty
Standard: ISO 20022 ExternalReturnReason1Code
Carried in: pacs.002, MT103 STP rejection, MT n96
Visible on Ohmyfin: yes — paste your UETR to see the full rejection trail
Frequently asked questions
What does SWIFT reject code BE05 mean?
The receiving bank does not recognise the initiating party.
How do I fix a BE05 rejection?
Provide complete originator name, address and identifier (LEI / passport / company number) and re-issue.
Will I get my money back after a BE05 rejection?
Yes. SWIFT rejections automatically return the funds to the originator's account, usually within 1–5 business days. Some banks credit immediately; others wait for the actual return wire.
Can I re-send the same payment after BE05?
Yes — once you fix the underlying issue, you can re-send with a new UETR. Do NOT re-send with the same UETR; that triggers AM05 (Duplication).
Related — more from swift reject reason codes and beyond
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