Legal Entity Identifier (LEI): Meaning, Benefits & How to Apply

30 JUNE, 2026

Introduction

Advanced technology has made business transactions possible at large scale involving significant amounts of money. This exposes businesses to significantly higher risks.

The global financial crisis of 2007-2008 made it very clear that we needed a transparent system. When a corporation engages in window dressing and hides debts to secure additional funds, it can lead to a disaster. To prevent such disasters, the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) system was created. The LEI system brings transparency and accountability to all financial transactions. It is a key tool to build trust and mitigate risks in large-scale financial activities.

What is a Legal Entity Identifier?

The Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) is a 20-character alphanumeric code which uniquely identifies global financial transaction participants. If you are wondering what an LEI number is, it is this unique code used to improve financial data reporting and risk management.

It helps establish a universal reference data system to identify legal entities worldwide involved in financial transactions. Obtained through accredited Local Operating Units (LOUs) under the Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF), it serves as a crucial tool for global financial transparency.

In India, Legal Entity Identifier India Ltd. (LEIL) is a recognised issuer authorised by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to facilitate the LEI registration process. To obtain an LEI certificate, please visit LEIL's website (https://www.ccilindia-lei.co.in/) and complete your LEI registration process.

Structure of the LEI Code

The Legal Entity Identifier code is designed for clarity and simplicity. It avoids embedded intelligence and confusing country-specific codes. Governed by four principles, it serves as a global standard and assigns a unique identifier to each legal entity. The LEI number is public and free for anyone to use. It has 20 characters and the structure is:

Characters 1-4: Unique to each Local Operating Unit (LOU) and assigned by the ROC Secretariat.
Characters 5-6: Reserved characters (00).
Characters 7-18: The LOU allocates a 12-character reference to a specific entity based on transparent policies.
Characters 19-20: Two check digits under ISO 17442, enhancing the code's integrity.

Also Read: What is Account Aggregator: A Comprehensive Overview

How to Obtain an LEI?

Access Document List:Access the online portal at https://www.ccilindia-lei.co.in/and click on the "Downloads" tab to start the process of the Legal Entity Identifier Code. Here, you will find a complete checklist of the required documents and their specific formats depending on the legal structure of your entity. This is a very important step to ensure you have all the necessary documentation for a smooth application process.
Self-Registration:Designate an authorised person to handle and perform the LEI code acquisition process. This authorised person can be appointed through a resolution, power of attorney, or depending on your entity's specific circumstances. This individual is the only one permitted to create an account on the online portal. They will provide their official email ID and proceed to complete the online form.
Authorised Persons:Identify the primary/user who will submit the online application form in the online registration process. This individual is the authorised user and will be responsible for the LEI registration. Additionally, provide the names and email IDs of any secondary users named in the online form. These individuals play a crucial role in the legal entity identifier registration process.
Complete the Legal Entity Identifier Registration Form:The form, including the payment gateway, consists of five pages.

Company Information Page: Enter all essential details of the company on this page.
Holding Company Page (Direct Parent Information Page): Fill in the details of the parent company.
Ultimate Parent Page: If the company is a step-down subsidiary, provide details of both the parent and ultimate parent.
Payment Page: Make payment once the form is complete.
Upload Page: Upload necessary documents on this page.

Payment: Once the form is completed, proceed to the payment gateway. Here, you have the option to make the payment online immediately or choose the demand draft option. Select "Save and Submit" after payment if you opt for online payment. The Legal Entity Identifier India Limited (LEIL) generates a reference number upon receipt of payment. This reference number becomes vital for future communications, and an email detailing the required documents to be submitted is sent.
Document Submission: Upload all the documents mentioned in the email received after online payment. Ensure the total size of all the documents you upload does not exceed 40MB. In case the upload is unsuccessful, the documents can be mailed by courier to the following address:

Legal Entity Identifier India Limited (LEIL)

(The Clearing Corporation of India Ltd.)

CCIL Bhavan, 3rd Floor, S. K. Bole Road

Dadar West, Mumbai – 400028

Verification Process: After documents are uploaded or physically sent, LEIL verifies them along with the application form. If necessary, additional documents may be requested, and the applicant entity may be directed to make changes to the online application form.
Issue of LEI Code: Upon successful submission and verification of the form and related documents, LEIL issues the LEI code. This unique identifier is sent via email to the entity. It is crucial to provide this code to banks for transparent and secure financial transactions.

Also Read: Business Loan or Overdraft – Which is Better?

Renewal of the LEI Code

The validity of an LEI Code is one year. To maintain its usage, you must renew it. Visit the online portal and choose "Modify and Renewal" instead of the "Register" option. Upon entering the LEI code, the application form will automatically display all details. Any necessary modifications can be made accordingly. Make sure to check the "LEI Renewal" checkbox before proceeding. Complete the form, make the required payment, and submit the necessary documents.

Once all steps are completed, the LEI Code is renewed, and a confirmation is promptly received. This simple process will keep your LEI Code valid and help you seamlessly participate in transparent and accountable financial transactions. Renewing the LEI Code annually ensures ongoing compliance, and it contributes to the sustained effectiveness of the Legal Entity Identifier system.

Related Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Legal Entity Identifier and what is it used for?

The Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) is a 20-character alpha-numeric code that is designed to uniquely identify parties to financial transactions globally. It seeks to improve the accuracy of financial data reporting systems and to promote better risk management by giving a unique identifier for each legal entity engaged in financial transactions.

Which transactions should include LEI information?

LEI information is required for all single payment transactions exceeding ₹ 50 Crore conducted by entities (non-individuals) via the NEFT and RTGS payment systems.

Is LEI required for Central Government, State Governments, Departments, and Ministries?

Government entities and their Departments/Ministries are exempt from obtaining LEI for payment transactions in NEFT and RTGS. However, Government-owned corporations or undertakings must obtain LEI for transactions exceeding ₹50 crore.

Is LEI required for individual customer transactions?

LEI is not required for transactions involving individual customers, as both the remitter and beneficiary are individuals. However, transactions involving non-individual parties require LEI.

What are the types of accounts for which LEI should be recorded?

The LEI should be recorded for all non-individual NEFT/RTGS transactions, ensuring comprehensive identification of legal entities involved in financial activities.