LEI search

Find a Legal Entity Identifier in seconds. This LEI search tool, also called an LEI code lookup or LEI number lookup, lets you search by company name or LEI code and view status, issuer, and reference data.

How LEI search works

LEI search queries the Global LEI Index, the public database operated by GLEIF. Each LEI record is created and maintained by a Local Operating Unit (LOU) that validates the entity name, registration authority, and address against official sources. When you search by name or LEI code, we call the GLEIF API and return the most recent reference data published for that entity.

The index is updated continuously as LEIs are issued, renewed, or updated after corporate actions. That makes a single LEI search useful for onboarding, payments, trading, and compliance, as long as you confirm the status and renewal dates in the record.

What data sources are used

Search results come from the GLEIF Global LEI Index. LOUs validate records against company registries, tax authorities, and other official sources before publishing updates. Level 1 data contains the legal name, address, registration authority ID, and status. Level 2 data adds parent relationships when the entity reports them. If a field is blank, it usually means the data is not reported or not required for that entity type.

Why entity names can have duplicates and how to match correctly

Entity names are not unique across jurisdictions. Corporate groups can have multiple subsidiaries with similar names, and differences in punctuation or transliteration can create near matches. To match correctly, use the exact legal name, confirm the jurisdiction and country, and compare registration IDs and addresses. If you already have an LEI code, it is the most precise identifier and should take precedence over name search.

Search methods

Use the method that matches the information you have. LEI search by code is the most precise, while name search is useful when you are starting from legal documents or onboarding requests.

Search by company name

Enter the legal name as filed. If you get no results, remove punctuation, corporate endings, or extra words and try again. Multinational groups often have similar names, so compare country, registration ID, and status before choosing a record.

Search by LEI code

An LEI code is 20 characters and unique to the legal entity. Searching by LEI returns a single record and shows the official status, issuer, and renewal dates. It is the fastest way to verify a counterparty or prefill a registration.

Search by registration number

If a name search returns no match, try shorter variants and remove punctuation or legal suffixes. If you already have the LEI code, use it for an exact match.

How to interpret search results

Status meanings

Status shows whether the LEI record is current. Issued or Active means the record is verified and up to date. Lapsed means the annual renewal is overdue and the data may be stale. Retired indicates the entity has ceased or merged, while Pending_transfer appear during a transfer of the LEI between two LOUs. Some records may be marked Annulled or Duplicate, in which case a replacement LEI should be used where provided.

Level 1 vs Level 2 data

Level 1 data is the core reference record - legal name, address, registration authority ID, and status. Level 2 data describes ownership, including direct and ultimate parent relationships, and is only available when the entity reports it. If you need ownership details for KYC or risk checks, open the LEI record and review the relationship section.

Common issues and fixes

Entity not found

If an entity does not appear, verify spelling and the exact legal name, then try the local language version. Newly issued LEIs can take time to appear in the public index. If you have the LEI code, use it for the fastest match.

Similar names across states or countries

A single search can return multiple entities with identical names. Compare jurisdiction, registered address, and registration authority ID. The country and LOU fields also help distinguish between entities, especially for global company groups.

Old legal names and name changes

After a name change or merger, the LEI record can include previous names in the other names field. Try historical names if you do not get a match. Always check the last update date to confirm the record is current.

Next steps after you find an LEI

Once you locate the correct record, take the next action to keep it compliant and ready for onboarding or reporting.

Verify status and expiry

Use the Verify LEI tool to confirm status and the next renewal date, especially if you rely on the record for compliance checks.

Renew if lapsed

If the record is lapsed, renew it to restore active status and keep reference data current. Renewals are fast and can be completed online. Renew LEI.

Transfer if you need a different agent

If another LOU manages the LEI and you want GlobalLEI to handle renewals, you can transfer the record without downtime. Transfer LEI.

LEI search FAQ