How to obtain an LEI

How to obtain a Legal Entity Identifier

An LEI number is a requirement for legal entities participating and dealing in financial transactions, stocks, bonds, and other securities in the UK. But do you know how to obtain an LEI?

In the UK, the LEI may not be a requirement for Sole Traders. But companies trading internationally may be affected by BREXIT. As a result of the ongoing international negotiations, some entities who have yet to obtain an LEI number may be required to do so.

Many UK entities, even Sole Traders, are turning to the LEI. And as the LEI system is quickly becoming a global standard, obtaining an LEI number before you need it is a good idea.

In this article, we explain how to obtain an LEI number.

How do I get an LEI number?

LEI numbers are issued by LOUs – Local Operating Units. An LOU is an organisation that is accredited by GLEIF (Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation) or endorsed by the ROC (Regulatory Oversight Committee).

To make it easier for legal entities to access LOUs and get an LEI number, GLEIF has introduced the concept of ‘Registration Agent’. This helps streamline the process of issuing LEI numbers.

By:
Michael Bjerggaard

Michael holds a master’s in Applied Economics and Finance from Copenhagen Business School.
Michael has previously worked with compliance in the banking sector.
Michael is co-founder of a real estate advisory company and a legal-tech company (with same owners as LEI Service).

What is a Registration Agent?

The Registration Agent will help you with all your questions regarding how to obtain an LEI number. Registration Agents help legal entities to access LOUs more easily. By partnering with one or more LOUs, the Registration Agent ensures that its clients receive the LEI services they need.

As a Registration Agent, LEI Service helps facilitate the obtaining of an LEI. We handle the application process for the legal entity, manage communications with the legal entity, and process and receive secure payment for issuance or renewal of an LEI number.

With us, obtaining an LEI number is quick, easy, and affordable.

If you have further questions about our work, do not hesitate to contact us at info@leiservice.co.uk – our English-speaking customer service will be happy to assist you.

How to get an LEI number – and how to apply

Does your UK company need an LEI number? With LEI Service, obtaining an LEI number is easy.

To apply for a new LEI number, click here.

When you enter your company number here, our system will automatically locate your data in Companies House. Once you have confirmed that the collected data is correct, we will take care of the application process for you. Within 10 minutes to 48 hours, you will receive your LEI number.

How to obtain an LEI number renewal

Now you know how to obtain an LEI number. But in order to ensure that all information is up-to-date, LEI numbers require annual renewal. Do you need to renew an existing LEI number? With LEI Service you have the option of renewing your LEI number automatically.

You can renew an existing LEI number here.

Please note that in choosing our renewal service, you are obliged to inform us of any changes made to your legal entity.

When is my LEI registered?

When you complete your LEI order with LEI Service before 5PM on a weekday, you have the option of adding VIP / express delivery to your order. Your LEI registration will then be completed within two hours. (Only applicable when you order a new LEI number.)

Due to the daily updating of information by banks and the global register, it may take up to 24 hours before the LEI is visible for 3rd parties in the global register..