Search and Verify Legal Entity Identifiers (LEIs) Instantly
Easily look up and validate Legal Entity Identifiers (LEIs). Our powerful LEI search tool lets you find entities by LEI code or company name. Whether you’re checking your own LEI status or verifying a client’s or counterparty’s information, our LEI lookup tool delivers fast, accurate results in just a few clicks.
A LEI is an essential tool for identifying companies globally in a standardized manner. With our LEI lookup services, you can easily access verified data about any legal entity registered under the LEI system. This makes it easier for businesses to ensure they are dealing with legitimate, regulated organizations. Whether you are a financial institution, investor, or regulatory body, using an LEI lookup enhances the speed and accuracy of your entity verification process.
| Legal Name | LEI | Jurisdiction | Status | Creation Date |
|---|
What is a Legal Entity Identifier (LEI)?
A Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) is a unique, 20-character alphanumeric code used to identify legal entities involved in financial transactions globally. Also referred to as an LEI code or LEI number, it is designed to improve transparency in the financial system by providing a standardized way to identify companies, organizations, and government bodies engaged in financial activities. Individuals cannot obtain an LEI.
The LEI is based on the ISO 17442 standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Each LEI is linked to key reference information, such as an entity’s legal name, registration details, and ownership structure—helping answer the questions “Who is who?” and “Who owns whom?”
LEIs are used in regulatory reporting and are mandatory for financial institutions, investment funds, and other legal entities under regulations like MiFID II, EMIR, and Dodd-Frank.
LEIs are issued and maintained by accredited organizations known as Local Operating Units (LOUs), which are authorized by the Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF). These issuers, often financial exchanges or data providers, serve as the primary interface between registrants and the global LEI system.
How to Obtain a Legal Entity Identifier (LEI)?
The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF) does not directly issue LEIs. Instead, it delegates this responsibility to accredited Local Operating Units (LOUs), which are authorized to issue and maintain LEIs. These LOUs offer a range of services, and their pricing and processing times can vary. Depending on the provider, obtaining an LEI can take anywhere from a few hours to several days or even weeks.
GLEIF ensures the quality and integrity of LEI data by overseeing the entire LEI system, ensuring that it remains reliable and accurate.
How Long is an LEI Valid, and How is it Renewed?
The validity of an LEI lasts for one year from the date of registration. To remain eligible for participation in regulated financial transactions, companies and organizations must renew their LEI annually. Renewal can be done through any accredited Local Operating Unit (LOU), and the LEI remains the same even if it is transferred between different LOUs.
What is the Structure of an LEI Code?
An LEI (Legal Entity Identifier) follows a specific structure, consisting of a 20-character alphanumeric string. Here’s how it breaks down:
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Characters 1-4: These represent the Local Operating Unit (LOU) code that issued the LEI.
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Characters 5-18: A unique alphanumeric string assigned to the organization by the issuing LOU.
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Characters 19-20: These are checksum digits, calculated using the MOD-97-10 algorithm (as per ISO/IEC 7064), ensuring the integrity of the LEI.
| Entity | LEI Code | Checksum |
|---|---|---|
| G.E. Financing GmbH | 5493 0084UKLVMY22DS | 16 |
| Jaguar Land Rover Ltd | 2138 00WSGIIZCXF1P5 | 72 |
| British Broadcasting Corporation | 5493 000IBP32UQZ0KL | 24 |
| Bank of Nova Scotia | L3I9 ZG2KFGXZ61BMYR | 72 |
The Importance of LEI in Global Finance
In today’s interconnected financial world, an LEI is crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability. The Legal Entity Identifier system allows regulators, financial institutions, and market participants to identify legal entities with a unique code that eliminates confusion and improves data accuracy. Whether you’re performing an LEI lookup for compliance, cross-border transactions, or risk assessment, understanding how LEIs work can save time and increase the reliability of your financial dealings.
External Links
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Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF)
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Link: https://www.gleif.org/
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Description: The GLEIF is the global organization that supports the implementation and use of the LEI. This site offers detailed information about the LEI system, including registration, maintenance, and updates.
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ISO 17442 – LEI Standard
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Description: Official webpage for ISO 17442, the international standard that defines the LEI system. It provides information on the technical aspects of LEI implementation and standards.
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European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) – LEI Information
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Description: The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a Briefing on the LegalEntity Identifier (LEI) as part of its efforts to raise industry awareness and facilitate compliance with the LEI requirements under MiFID II ahead of its 3 January 2018 launch
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