EU CRYPTO REGISTER · GLOSSARY · LAST VERIFIED
What is ISO 17442 and how does it relate to MiCA?
ISO 17442 is the international standard that defines the format of the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI). It specifies a 20-character alphanumeric code that uniquely identifies a legal entity globally. MiCA uses LEIs throughout the ESMA register; ISO 17442 is the underlying technical foundation.
What is the exact legal definition?
ISO 17442 'Financial services - Legal Entity Identifier (LEI)' is maintained by the International Organization for Standardization. It defines the LEI format and the framework within which GLEIF and its Local Operating Units issue identifiers. Source: ISO 17442.
What does it actually mean in practice?
The 20-character format. An LEI is composed of: 4-character prefix identifying the issuing LOU, 2 reserved characters (zeros), 12-character entity-specific identifier, and 2 check digits computed using ISO/IEC 7064 MOD 97-10. The structure ensures global uniqueness and machine-verifiability.
Three parts of the standard. ISO 17442-1 defines the LEI structure and assignment. ISO 17442-2 defines extended fields for hierarchies (parent-subsidiary relationships). ISO 17442-3 defines the global meta-architecture (GLEIF, LOUs, mappings).
Why a standard matters for MiCA. MiCA could have invented its own identifier; by using ISO 17442 it inherits a global identifier system already used across financial markets, simplifying cross-system data exchange. ESMA's register, banking regulators' registers, and AML reporting can all reference the same LEI.
What users need to know. The standard itself is a technical artefact. For users, the practical effect is that an LEI in the ESMA register can be cross-referenced against GLEIF's global database to verify the legal entity behind any MiCA-authorised CASP.
Where do we see this in the public record?
| Example | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Format | 20 alphanumeric characters per ISO 17442-1 |
| Check digits | ISO/IEC 7064 MOD 97-10 |
| Issuing authority | GLEIF-accredited Local Operating Units (LOUs) |
| Public search | search.gleif.org |
What else do users ask about this?
Is ISO 17442 mandatory in financial markets?
It is the de facto standard. Various national regulators and EU regulations mandate LEI use for specific reporting obligations; MiCA is one of them.
Can the same LEI be reissued?
No. An LEI is permanent for the lifetime of the legal entity. If the entity is dissolved, its LEI is marked inactive but not reissued to another entity.
Where can I read ISO 17442?
The standard text is available from ISO at iso.org (paid). Summary specifications are published by GLEIF for public reference.
Which sources is this entry based on?
- ISO 17442 (ISO website)
- GLEIF - LEI format specification
- GLEIF public search
- MiCA Article 109 - Central register (uses LEIs)
Glossary entries on The Crypto Register are sourced from primary legal texts (Regulation (EU) 2023/1114, ESMA guidelines, national regulator publications). They are not legal advice. Last verified .