Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) obligatory for investments
Do you want to invest on the stock exchange market? Then you need to have a Legal Entity Identifier (LEI).
What is an LEI?
An LEI is a unique number used on the stock exchange market. Supervisory authorities can use an LEI to track all purchases and sales of a company on the stock exchange market. An LEI provides more clarity about what is happening on the stock market and allows supervisory authorities to take action if necessary. The LEI also provides information about the company, such as who owns the company.
Who is required to have an LEI?
An LEI is mandatory for entrepreneurs or legal entities that hold shares, bonds, or derivatives. Without this number, you are not permitted to invest on the stock exchange market. Are you not sure if you need an LEI? Your bank or asset manager can tell you whether you need one.
Apply for an LEI
Do you have a KVK number? You can then apply for an LEI to the Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel, KVK). You will have to pay a registration fee. After that, you pay an annual fee to renew your LEI. If you apply for the LEI on a working day before 15.00 hours, you usually receive the LEI code by e-mail on the same day.
Please note:
- All information on the application must be correct and complete.
- Is the information incorrect? The KVK will contact you to make changes. This may delay your application.
If you do not have a KVK number, you can apply for the LEI from an LEI issuing institution accredited by the Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF).
Search in the LEI register
You can search for a company or legal entity in the LEI register. GLEIF allows you to find all LEI registrations worldwide.