If you are asking who issues LEIs, here is the short answer: accredited Local Operating Units (LOUs) issue LEIs, while Registration Agents help you apply and manage them. This article clarifies roles, shows the end‑to‑end workflow, and explains how to choose a provider with confidence.
Who issues LEIs? Quick answer
LOUs are the issuers. They validate company data and publish records into the global database. Registration Agents are facilitators. They collect details, guide documentation, and submit to an LOU on your behalf. Therefore, you may work directly with an LOU or through a Registration Agent that partners with one.
Roles: LOUs vs Registration Agents
Figure 1 — Governance and delivery model: GLEIF accredits; LOUs issue; Registration Agents facilitate.
LOUs follow ISO 17442 and rigorous validation policies. Meanwhile, Registration Agents focus on customer experience, localization, and submission quality. Consequently, both roles complement each other and reduce friction for applicants.
Authoritative reference: See GLEIF’s overview of the Registration Agent model and responsibilities. GLEIF — Registration Agents
Issuance workflow: from form to LEI
Figure 2 — Typical flow: the Registration Agent prepares and submits; the LOU validates and issues.
Although steps vary by jurisdiction, the pattern is consistent. First, the applicant provides legal details. Next, a Registration Agent can perform pre‑checks and submit to the LOU. Finally, the LOU conducts authoritative validation and issues the LEI.
Comparison table
| Aspect | LOU (Issuer) | Registration Agent |
|---|---|---|
| Core role | Validates data and issues LEIs | Onboards clients and submits to LOU |
| Accreditation | Accredited by GLEIF | Recognized model; partners with one or more LOUs |
| Validation | Performs final checks against registries | Performs pre‑checks and gathers evidence |
| Contract | Entity ↔ LOU (direct) or via RA | Entity ↔ RA; RA ↔ LOU |
| Support | Technical and policy‑focused | Customer‑centric, localized assistance |
| Pricing | Set by issuer; renewal yearly | May include service fees or bundles |
| Languages | Varies by issuer | Often multi‑language and regional |
| Turnaround | Same‑day possible with complete data | Helps accelerate with complete submissions |
How to choose a provider
- Speed and SLAs. Ask about cut‑off times and same‑day processing. Moreover, confirm holiday coverage.
- Validation quality. Look for clear guidance on documents and registry checks. Consequently, you reduce rework.
- Languages and support. Consider time zones, channels, and native language help.
- Pricing and bundles. Compare initial registration, renewal, and multi‑year options. Additionally, check VAT handling.
- Account tools. Seek dashboards, bulk uploads, reminders, and API access.
- Portability. Ensure you can transfer your LEI between providers if needed.
FAQ
Who issues LEIs?
Accredited LOUs issue LEIs. Registration Agents help with applications, renewals, and portfolio management while the LOU remains the issuer.
What does an LOU do?
The LOU validates entity data, applies ISO 17442 rules, and publishes the 20‑character LEI into the global database.
What does a Registration Agent do?
A Registration Agent streamlines onboarding with localized support, performs pre‑checks, and submits your application to an LOU.
Can I choose any provider?
Yes. You may apply directly with an LOU or through a Registration Agent that partners with one. Therefore, compare speed, languages, and price before you decide.
Do Registration Agents issue LEIs?
No. They facilitate applications and data collection. The accredited LOU validates and issues the LEI.
Authoritative source used in this article: GLEIF — Registration Agents.
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