Blog · 2025-05-07
CBU and CVU in Argentina: A complete guide to bank and virtual accounts in 2025
Argentina relies on two main types of account identifiers for financial transactions: the CBU (Clave Bancaria Uniforme) and the CVU (Clave Virtual Uniforme). Both are 22-digit numbers used for transfers and payments, but they serve different contexts.
What is a CBU?
A CBU is the unique number of a traditional bank account, used to identify that account within Argentina's network of financial institutions. You need it to receive and send money and to set up automatic payments.
Structure of a CBU
- Digits 1-3: bank code
- Digits 4-7: branch code
- Digit 8: check digit
- Digits 9-21: account number
- Digit 22: check digit
Every banking institution has its own unique code, which makes it possible to identify accounts precisely across the system.
Where is a CBU used?
- Bank transfers between accounts
- Receiving deposits and transfers
- Paying for services via direct debit
- Registering with tax and social-security systems
The CBU is used by traditional banks such as BBVA, Santander, Banco Nación and others.
What is a CVU?
A CVU is the unique number of a virtual account, designed for fintech services and digital wallets. It identifies accounts held with non-bank financial providers and makes it easy to move money between different platforms.
Structure of a CVU
- Digits 1-3: CVU identifier (usually 000)
- Digits 4-7: service-provider code (for example, Mercado Pago or Ualá)
- Digit 8: check digit
- Digits 9-21: user identifier
- Digit 22: check digit
A CVU allows transactions between digital wallets and bank accounts, delivering flexibility and easy access to financial services.
Where is a CVU used?
- Payments and transfers through mobile apps
- Transactions between CVU and CBU (in both directions)
- Using digital wallets without needing to open a bank account
The CVU is used by fintech services such as Mercado Pago, Ualá and others.
Since 2020, transfers between a CBU and a CVU have been processed in real time and free of charge through the Transferencias 3.0 system, making financial operations both convenient and efficient.
How to find your account details
- CBU: available through online banking, an ATM, or by visiting a bank branch.
- CVU: available in the app of the relevant fintech service (for example, in Mercado Pago via "Ver CVU").
You can also create an Alias - a unique, easy-to-remember identifier that you can use in place of the long CBU or CVU number to simplify transactions.
Understanding the difference between a CBU and a CVU in Argentina is key to managing your finances effectively. The CBU handles traditional banking operations, while the CVU offers flexibility and accessibility through fintech services. Both systems ensure reliable, secure transactions that meet the expectations of today's users.
FAQ
What is the difference between CBU and CVU?
How many digits does a CBU have?
How do I find my CBU?
Can I send money from a CVU to a CBU?
What is an alias in Argentina?
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