How to Get a Legal Entity Identifier
A Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) is a 20-character alphanumeric code that uniquely identifies legal entities participating in financial transactions globally. In India, the RBI mandates LEIs for entities engaging in OTC derivatives, large-value RTGS transactions (above ₹50 crore), and certain external commercial borrowings.
Before you start
- Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed / Trust Deed
- PAN of the entity
- Audited financial statements (latest year)
- Authorised signatory details with ID proof
- Beneficial ownership information (for entities above certain thresholds)
Step-by-step
Determine Which LEI Issuer to Use
In India, two RBI-accredited LEI issuers operate: Legal Entity Identifier India Ltd (LEIL, a subsidiary of CCIL) and the Clearing Corporation of India Ltd (CCIL). Most Indian entities use LEIL. Both are accredited by GLEIF (Global LEI Foundation).
Register on the LEIL Portal
Visit leiindia.org and create an account. Provide the entity's legal name exactly as it appears in the Certificate of Incorporation or registration document — LEI records must match public registry data precisely.
Complete the Application Form
Fill in the entity's full legal name, registered address, legal form, jurisdiction of incorporation, registration number, and parent entity details (for subsidiaries — LEI captures both direct and ultimate parent relationships).
Upload Supporting Documents
Upload the Certificate of Incorporation, PAN card, latest audited financial statements, and authorised signatory identity proof. For entities with foreign parents, provide parent LEI or equivalent foreign registration details.
Pay the Annual Fee
Pay the LEI issuance fee (typically ₹5,000–₹10,000 for the first year). LEIs must be renewed annually; the renewal fee is lower than the issuance fee. Non-renewal causes the LEI to lapse to 'Lapsed' status, which may block transactions.
Receive LEI and Register for Transactions
LEIL issues the 20-character LEI within 3–7 working days. Provide this LEI to your bank or counterparty for inclusion in RTGS/NEFT instructions, derivatives reporting, and ECB forms. The LEI is publicly searchable on the GLEIF database.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using a lapsed LEI for regulated transactions — banks will reject the transaction instruction; renew the LEI at least 30 days before expiry.
- Providing mismatched legal names — the LEI record must exactly match the name in the company registry; even minor discrepancies (e.g., 'Pvt' vs 'Private') cause validation failures.
- Not capturing the parent-subsidiary relationship — GLEIF requires Level 2 data (who owns whom); failure to provide parent LEI data leads to incomplete LEI records that some counterparties reject.
- Confusing LEI with CIN or GSTIN — LEI is specifically for financial market transactions; it does not replace any domestic registration number.
Frequently asked questions
Is LEI mandatory for all companies in India?
Not for all companies. The RBI mandates LEI for entities making RTGS transactions above ₹50 crore per transaction, participants in OTC derivative markets, and borrowers under external commercial borrowings. It is also required for certain FPI and SEBI-regulated entities.
How long is an LEI valid?
An LEI is valid for one year from issuance. Annual renewal is mandatory to maintain 'Active' status. A lapsed LEI cannot be used for regulated transactions until renewed.
Can an individual get an LEI?
No. LEI is issued only to legal entities — companies, LLPs, trusts, partnership firms, and other bodies with a legal personality. Individuals do not qualify.
Is an Indian LEI globally recognised?
Yes. LEIs issued by GLEIF-accredited issuers (including LEIL in India) are globally recognised and searchable on the GLEIF global LEI index (gleif.org/lei-lookup). This makes Indian entities identifiable in international financial markets.
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