How to Obtain a Siret Number and Siren Number

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Definition and Structure The Siren and Siret number are unique identifiers assigned to businesses and establishments in France.

  • Siren (Système d’Identification du Répertoire des Entreprises): A 9-digit number that uniquely identifies a company.
  • Siret Number (Système d’Identification du Répertoire des Établissements): A 14-digit number that includes the 9-digit Siren plus a 5-digit internal classification number (NCI) specific to each establishment.

Key Differences Between Siren and Siret Number

  • It identifies a company as a whole.
  • It is specific to each establishment within a company and includes geographical information.

For example:

  • A company with a headquarters and two retail stores will have one Siren number and three Siret numbers (one for each location).
  • An individual entrepreneur operating multiple activities under one company will have one Siren number but a separate it for each location.

How to Obtain a Siret Number and Siren Number

Siren and Siret numbers are automatically assigned when registering a business. This applies to:

  • Companies (any legal form)
  • Individual entrepreneurs, including micro-entrepreneurs
  • Foreign businesses operating in France

No separate application is required. Once the business registration is approved, the numbers are accessible via the declarant’s personal space on the Company Formalities Window.

Usage of Siren and Siret Numbers

  • It provides access to legal and financial information about a company. It must be displayed on employee pay slips, commercial documents, and administrative forms.
  • It identifies a business’s geographical location and is required on employee pay slips and company invoices.

Changes to Siren and Siret Numbers

  • It is permanent unless the business ceases operations (e.g., due to dissolution or the entrepreneur’s death).
  • It changes if a business relocates. The new number is issued through the Company Formalities Window.

Recovering a Lost Siret Number or Siren Number These numbers are public and can be retrieved via:

  • The Sirene Directory, which contains details on all registered businesses in France.
  • The Company Directory, which provides access to legal and financial information, including VAT numbers and EPA codes.

By consulting these directories, anyone can find the necessary identification details for businesses operating in France, including their Siret number.