LEI vs Company Registration Number – Key Differences
Quick Answer
A Company Registration Number (CRN) is issued by a national registrar (e.g., Companies House in the UK) and identifies a company within that jurisdiction. An LEI is a globally unique code (ISO 17442) that identifies an entity across all jurisdictions and financial markets. They complement each other—an LEI maps to the CRN but works internationally. LEI Search is provided by LEI Worldwide, an official GLEIF Registration Agent.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | LEI | CRN |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Global | National / jurisdictional |
| Standard | ISO 17442 | No global standard |
| Issuer | GLEIF-accredited LOU | National registrar |
| Format | 20-char alphanumeric | Varies by country |
| Renewal | Annual | Usually none |
| Ownership data | Yes (Level 2) | Varies |
| Use case | Financial reporting | Company identification |
When Do You Need Both?
If your company trades derivatives, equities, or bonds in regulated markets, you need both: a CRN for national corporate filings and an LEI for financial transaction reporting. Many KYC/AML processes now require LEIs for enhanced due diligence, even for companies not directly trading in financial instruments.
How LEI Links to CRN
When an LEI is issued, the entity's national registration number is recorded as part of the reference data. GLEIF calls this the "Registration Authority" field—linking the LEI to the company's jurisdiction-specific ID. You can see this mapping on any LEI detail page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an LEI and a CRN?
A CRN (Company Registration Number) is issued by a national registrar and identifies a company within one jurisdiction. An LEI is a globally unique ISO 17442 code that identifies an entity across all jurisdictions and financial markets.
Do I need both an LEI and a CRN?
If your company trades derivatives, equities, or bonds in regulated markets, you need both: a CRN for national filings and an LEI for financial transaction reporting.
Does an LEI replace a CRN?
No. They complement each other. The LEI maps to the CRN in the GLEIF reference data, but each serves a different purpose. CRNs are for national corporate filings; LEIs are for international financial reporting.
How does an LEI link to a CRN?
When an LEI is issued, the entity's national registration number is recorded in the 'Registration Authority' field. GLEIF maintains this mapping so you can trace between identifiers.
Is a CRN unique globally?
No. CRNs are only unique within a single jurisdiction. Two companies in different countries can have the same CRN. LEIs are globally unique by design.
Can I search by CRN on LEI Search?
You can search by company name and the results will show both the LEI and any linked registration numbers from the entity's jurisdiction.