LEI for Trusts and Trust Structures

A trust is a common-law concept. Belgian law does not recognise the trust as a domestic legal form. Even so, the LEI remains relevant in several contexts.

When a trust needs an LEI

If a trust, as a structure, takes part in the financial markets — investing in securities or entering derivatives contracts — it may, like other legal structures, need an LEI to meet MiFID II and EMIR requirements.

The Belgian and cross-border context

Because Belgium has no domestic trust, this question most often arises for Belgian businesses in cross-border situations — for example, dealing with foreign trusts or structures established in common-law jurisdictions. In such cases a foreign trust may need to be identified by an LEI for the transaction to proceed.

If you're unsure whether a particular structure counts as a trust for LEI purposes, it's advisable to consult a legal adviser.

See also Who needs an LEI? and LEI for investment funds.