LHV is a First UK Bank with Direct RT1 Access

LHV Bank has become the first UK-based financial institution to gain direct access to the RT1 platform, enabling seamless participation in SEPA Instant payments.

This strategic move significantly enhances LHV’s cross-border payment capabilities, allowing the bank to process real-time euro transactions through the SEPA Instant Credit Transfer (SCT Inst) scheme without relying on intermediary institutions.

Unlike other UK institutions that access the RT1 platform indirectly—limiting their ability to serve other financial institutions—LHV’s direct integration removes these restrictions. It allows the bank to offer scalable, efficient, and cost-effective euro payment services across Europe, without the need for correspondent banking relationships or third-party processors.

“This is both a technical and strategic milestone,” said Erki Kilu, CEO of LHV Bank. “By directly connecting to SCT Instant, we’re advancing the future of cross-border payments and reinforcing our role as a trusted partner for fintechs and globally oriented businesses.”

The announcement comes on the heels of several notable achievements for LHV Bank, including the launch of its UK retail banking operations in May, recognition as one of the Sunday Times’ Best Places to Work, and double wins at the ICA Compliance Awards in June.

Through this integration with RT1, LHV Bank continues to lead in real-time payment innovation across Europe.