What is SEPA Instant and how does it work
SEPA Instant (SCT Inst) moves euros between European banks in under 10 seconds, at any time. How it works, limits and coverage.
SEPA Instant Credit Transfer (SCT Inst) is the European scheme for instant euro transfers. It is run by the European Payments Council (EPC) and has been live since November 2017. Funds reach the payee's account within seconds, including at night, at weekends and on public holidays.
How it works
- Speed: Regulation (EU) 2024/886 sets a maximum of 10 seconds from the moment the payer's bank receives the order until the payee has the funds.
- Availability: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year.
- Currency: euro only, between accounts in SEPA countries.
- Confirmation: the payer knows immediately whether the payment was credited or rejected.
Is there a maximum amount?
Since the October 2025 scheme rulebook, SEPA Instant no longer has a maximum amount per transaction. It used to be €100,000. Each bank can set its own limits, and Regulation (EU) 2024/886 requires banks to let customers set a limit for their instant payments.
Which banks take part?
To send and receive SEPA Instant payments, an institution must participate in the scheme, either directly or through another institution. The EPC publishes the official list of participants, currently over 2,800 institutions in 41 countries. You can search it with our SEPA Instant checker.
How much does it cost?
In the EU, an instant payment cannot cost more than a regular SEPA transfer from the same bank. In the euro area this has applied since 9 January 2025.