What Is a Registration Agent / LEI Issuer?

If you've looked into getting an LEI, you'll have seen "LEI issuer," "LOU" and "Registration Agent" used almost interchangeably. They aren't the same thing.

The two roles

LOU (Local Operating Unit): the organisation accredited by GLEIF to actually issue LEIs and validate the data behind them. (See What is an LOU?)
Registration Agent: an intermediary that helps entities obtain and maintain their LEIs through an LOU. The agent handles the application, data checks, renewals and support; the LOU does the formal issuance.

People often say "LEI issuer" loosely to mean either — but technically, only an LOU issues.

Why use a Registration Agent?

local-language support and guidance through the process;
managed renewals, so your LEI never lapses by accident;
multi-year registration and a single point of contact;
one place for registration, renewal and transfer.

The key point: the LEI you receive is exactly as valid as one obtained any other way — every LEI is governed by GLEIF's standard. Choosing an agent is about service, not legitimacy.

TrustedLEI operates as a Registration Agent, issuing through accredited LOUs while handling everything else for you.

See also What is GLEIF? and How to register an LEI.