A simpler future: How the LEI number is driving Europe’s digital economy

9 avril 2025

Europe is moving into a new digital age – and the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) is a key component of this transformation. Supported by the European Commission’s initiative to simplify regulation and administration, particularly as part of the so-called Omnibus Simplification Packages, the LEI and its digital counterpart, the verifiable LEI (vLEI), are becoming increasingly important.

For companies that operate internationally and want to fulfil regulatory requirements efficiently and automate digital processes, now is the right time to launch the application lei number and thus secure a decisive competitive advantage.

Why the LEI number is so crucial in the European simplification package

The European Commission aims to strengthen competitiveness through transparent and digital processes. The LEI number makes a decisive contribution to this – through simplified identification processes, reduced bureaucracy and greater transparency in cross-border business relationships.

1. activate the once-only principle

A central element of the EU strategy is that companies should only have to transmit their data to authorities once. The LEI makes this possible thanks to its standardised, globally recognised structure. Authorities can exchange information efficiently, and companies benefit from reduced administrative effort—especially across national borders.

A company that carries out the application lei number today ensures that it will have less work to do with regulatory requirements in the future – a clear advantage in an increasingly digital environment.

2. digital by default – with automated verification

The EU is focusing on digitalisation. With vLEI, identities can be verified cryptographically – without any paperwork. This allows companies to automatically verify legal identities, agency relationships and partner companies – securely, quickly and efficiently.

When you apply for your LEI number, you send a strong signal for digital processes and regulatory efficiency.

3. Simplify cross-border processes and KYC compliance

Whether for banks, FinTechs or international supply chains – the LEI number simplifies compliance with KYC and AML requirements. Integration into digital platforms shortens onboarding times, reduces compliance costs and increases identity verification accuracy.

With an application lei number, you create trust – with customers, partners and authorities worldwide.

4. making sustainability reporting efficient

The new EU Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) obliges companies to make comprehensive ESG disclosures. The LEI links data from financial reports, supply chains and compliance reports, thus reducing duplicate reporting obligations.

A company that uses the LEI number can implement its ESG strategy more transparently and much more efficiently.

Strategic advantages for companies – today and in the future

The LEI number is more than just a regulatory requirement. It is a key to digitalisation and process optimisation. Other fields of application are:

Interoperability with EU IDs:

Linking with the European Company ID (EUID) creates an identification system that can be used throughout Europe.

Public procurement:

The LEI increases transparency and trust in tendering processes.

Supply chain transparency:

LEIs of suppliers enable more efficient and sustainable supply chain management.

Why you should apply for your LEI number now

The LEI number is more than an administrative act – it is a strategic tool. It facilitates international business processes, reduces risks, and opens new digital opportunities.

By applying for the LEI number now, you are laying the foundation for a future-proof, digitally integrated company – in line with the European digital strategy.

Your LEI number in just a few steps – we support you

At lei.net, we guide you through registration. Whether you are new to the topic or want to renew your existing LEI number – we offer fast and secure solutions.

Apply for an LEI number now and take full advantage of the benefits of digitalisation.