Legal Entity Identifier – How to Obtain, Renew, Download LEI Code
In today's global financial environment, transparency is crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring trust among businesses, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies. The Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) system, introduced after the 2007-08 financial crisis, serves as a unique identifier for legal entities engaged in financial transactions worldwide. This page provides a comprehensive guide on how to obtain, renew, and download an LEI code.
What is a Legal Entity Identifier (LEI)?
The LEI is a 20-character alphanumeric code based on the ISO 17442 standard, developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It provides a globally recognized, standardized identity for legal entities participating in financial transactions. The LEI system enhances transparency by linking key reference information that enables clear and unique identification of entities.
Structure of the LEI Code
The LEI code is structured as follows:
a) Characters 1-4: Unique to each Local Operating Unit (LOU), assigned by the Regulatory Oversight Committee (ROC) Secretariat.
b) Characters 5-6: Reserved characters (00) for future use.
c) Characters 7-18: Entity-specific part assigned by the LOU based on transparent and sound allocation policies.
d) Characters 19-20: Two check digits to ensure data integrity and accuracy.
How to Obtain an LEI Code
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Document Preparation:
a) Visit the [LEI Registration Portal](https://www.ccilindia-lei.co.in/) and navigate to the "Downloads" tab.
b) Download the document checklist specifying required documents and formats based on the legal structure of your entity.
2. Online Registration:
a) Appoint an authorized person (Primary/Main user) responsible for the LEI application process.
b) Create an account on the portal using the official email address of the authorized person.
c) Fill out the online registration form, providing detailed company information and details of authorized officials.
3. Form Submission:
a) The LEI registration form consists of multiple sections including:
b) Company Information Page: Basic details about the entity.
c) Holding Company Page (Direct Parent Information Page): Details of the immediate parent company.
d) Ultimate Parent Page: Details of the ultimate parent entity for hierarchical structures.
e) Payment Page: Select payment method (online payment or demand draft).
f) Upload Page: Upload necessary documents (up to 40MB in size).
4. Payment and Document Submission:
a) Choose between making an online payment immediately or opting for a demand draft.
b) Upon submission of the form and successful payment, a reference number is generated.
c) An email confirmation is sent with instructions for further document submission if necessary.
5. Verification and Issuance:
a) LEIL verifies the submitted documents and application form.
b) Additional documents may be requested for clarification or completeness.
c) Once verified, the LEI code is issued and sent via email to the entity.
Renewal of LEI Code
LEI codes are typically valid for one year and must be renewed to maintain their validity. The renewal process involves:
a) Accessing the [LEI Registration Portal](https://www.ccilindia-lei.co.in/) and selecting the "Modify and Renewal" option.
b) Enter the existing LEI code and review/update entity details as necessary.
c) Check the "LEI Renewal" checkbox and proceed with form completion, fee payment, and document submission similar to the initial registration process.
Downloading LEI Code
Once issued or renewed, the LEI code can be downloaded from the LEIL portal:
a) Log in to your account on the [LEI Registration Portal](https://www.ccilindia-lei.co.in/).
b) Navigate to the section for "LEI Code Management" or similar.
c) Select the option to download the LEI certificate or view details related to your LEI code.