Legal Entity Identifier (LEI)
The 20-character code banks now ask for on large transactions.
Reviewed by CA Hitendra Pal Singh· company law, tax and complianceLast reviewed
RBI requires an LEI for borrowers above a set exposure, for large-value payments and for big cross-border transactions, and banks refuse to process without it. It is issued in India by LEIL, takes a few days, and has to be renewed every year.
What is included
- LEIL application and entity verification
- Parent and ownership data where required
- LEI issuance
- Annual renewal reminder
What we will need from you
- PAN and Certificate of Incorporation
- Board resolution or authorisation letter
- Audited financials or ownership details
- Authorised signatory’s ID
How long it takes
Typically 2–5 working days.
Timelines are typical, not guaranteed. Government processing times vary, and a query from the officer adds to them. We will tell you where yours stands.
Common questions
Who needs one?
Any non-individual borrower above the RBI exposure threshold, and anyone making single payments above the large-value limit. We check the current thresholds against your position.
What if it lapses?
Banks treat a lapsed LEI as absent. Renewal is a small annual task we calendar for you.