Free-text, hybrid or structured: which address format is ready?
Three formats can look similar on screen but are processed differently. The difference is which data sits in dedicated elements and which remains in AdrLine.
Written by Struct20022 · updated August 29, 2026
Fully unstructured
Street, town and country appear only in one or more AdrLine values. A person can read them, but systems have to guess the role of each part.
Swift extended the timetable on 27 August 2026. The exact migration timing will be clarified by December at the latest; continuing preparation is recommended.
Hybrid
Town and country sit in TwnNm and Ctry, while some detail can remain in AdrLine. This is a practical transition when master data is not fully separated yet.
Hybrid does not mean duplicating data without rules: the usage guideline for the flow still applies.
Fully structured
Street, building number, postcode, town and country have dedicated elements, with no AdrLine.
This is the easiest format to control and the strongest long-term target.
Identify the format
- 1AdrLine only: unstructured and risky in the relevant flows.
- 2TwnNm and Ctry with AdrLine: potentially hybrid.
- 3Dedicated elements without AdrLine: fully structured.
- 4Check that Ctry contains a two-letter country code.
- 5Avoid contradictory duplicates across fields.
FAQ
Is hybrid only a temporary solution?
Hybrid is a valid format for the intended flows. Fully structured remains the clearest long-term target.
Can AdrLine remain in a fully structured address?
No. Once AdrLine is used, the format is no longer fully structured; it can be hybrid when the applicable rules are met.
Official sources
Related guides
Put every row in the right format
A short review shows which addresses are ready and which need targeted correction.