LEI Validator
Use this LEI validator to check LEI validity, verify LEI status, and confirm whether a Legal Entity Identifier is registered in the Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF) database. Enter any 20-character LEI code to instantly verify its format, checksum, registration state, and entity details.
Need to check multiple codes? Use our Bulk LEI Validator to validate up to 50 LEIs at once.
How It Works
The validator performs two checks in sequence:
- Syntax validation: Verifies the LEI follows the correct ISO 17442 format — 20 alphanumeric characters with a valid MOD 97-10 checksum.
- GLEIF database lookup: Queries the Global LEI Foundation database in real time to retrieve the entity name, registration status, legal address, jurisdiction, renewal date, and managing LOU.
LEI Code Structure
An LEI code consists of:
- Characters 1-4: Prefix identifying the Local Operating Unit (LOU) that issued the LEI
- Characters 5-18: Entity-specific part assigned by the LOU
- Characters 19-20: Check digits calculated using the ISO 7064 MOD 97-10 algorithm
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an LEI code?
An LEI (Legal Entity Identifier) is a 20-character alphanumeric code based on the ISO 17442 standard. It uniquely identifies legal entities that participate in financial transactions worldwide. LEIs are issued by Local Operating Units (LOUs) accredited by the Global LEI Foundation (GLEIF).
What do the different LEI statuses mean?
- ACTIVE (also called ISSUED): The LEI is current and the entity's data has been verified within the last year.
- LAPSED: The LEI has not been renewed by its annual renewal date. The entity still exists, but its LEI data may be outdated. The entity must renew to restore active status.
- RETIRED: The LEI has been permanently deactivated, typically because the entity has ceased to exist (dissolved, merged, or acquired).
- PENDING_TRANSFER: The LEI is being transferred from one LOU to another.
How do I renew an expired or lapsed LEI?
If your LEI has lapsed, you can renew it through your current managing LOU or transfer it to a new registration agent like LEI-Registrar. The renewal process involves verifying your entity's current legal information against official business registry records.
Is this LEI validation tool free?
Yes, this LEI validator is completely free to use. It checks your LEI code's syntax locally and then verifies it against the official GLEIF database in real time at no cost.
What is the ISO 17442 standard?
ISO 17442 is the international standard that defines the structure and format of Legal Entity Identifiers. It specifies the 20-character alphanumeric format and the MOD 97-10 checksum algorithm used to detect transcription errors. The standard is maintained by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Who needs an LEI?
Any legal entity involved in financial transactions may need an LEI. It is mandatory for entities trading in securities and derivatives markets under regulations like MiFID II and EMIR, and Dodd-Frank. LEIs are also increasingly used in KYC processes, regulatory reporting, and cross-border payments.