Where to Find the Code APE of a Company?

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What Do NAF and Code APE Mean?

The NAF code (Nomenclature des Activités Françaises) and the code APE (Activité Principale Exercée) are identifiers assigned by INSEE to classify the activity of every company in France. Both appear on official documents such as the Kbis extract.

The NAF code is primarily used for statistical purposes to group companies by activity. It is essentially the same classification, but it is the administrative label attributed to a business when it is registered.

Every company receives its  upon creation. The format is four digits + one letter (e.g., 62.01Z for an IT development company).

Why It Matters:

  • For the administration: taxes, URSSAF, social security, etc.

  • For businesses: contribution rates, eligibility for financial support, and commercial positioning

A wrongly assigned or outdated code APE can result in errors in taxation or missed business opportunities.

Where to Find the Code APE of Your Company?

A) On the INSEE Website (SIRENE Directory)

The fastest and free option is to use the SIRENE directory on the official INSEE website.

Steps:

  1. Visit www.insee.fr

  2. Search for “Répertoire SIRENE”

  3. Enter your SIREN number (9 digits)

  4. Your code APE will appear along with other legal information

This tool is also useful if you want to check the code of a client, supplier, or competitor.

For a detailed step-by-step guide, you can also check this external resource from Tiime.

B) On Your Kbis Extract

The Kbis extract, issued by the commercial court registry, is the official “identity card” of a company. It is always appears on it.

Ways to obtain your Kbis:

  • Online through infogreffe.fr

  • Via your entrepreneur account on platforms like MonIdenum

This is the most reliable source, particularly when you need to provide official proof to business partners or authorities.

Why Is the Code APE Important?

Tax and Social Impacts

It is not just a number—it can directly impact your tax regime, social contributions, and eligibility for financial support.

Examples:

  • Certain industrial or craft activities benefit from specific exemptions

  • Your code determines whether you are affiliated with the Social Security for the Self-Employed, RSI, or another body

  • It influences the collective bargaining agreement applicable to your employees

➡️ An incorrect it can lead to unnecessary costs or lost benefits.

A Tool for Business Strategy

Knowing itand those of your competitors is also a strategic tool. It allows you to:

  • Benchmark sector data (average turnover, workforce, profitability, etc.)

  • Identify potential B2B clients or partners

  • Target government grants or tenders restricted to specific sectors

Platforms such as Société.com or Pappers allow searches by code APE to identify companies in the same sector and explore new opportunities.

Practical Tools to Track Your Code APE

Online Management Platforms

Platforms like Tiime centralize your company’s legal information, including the code APE. They make it easier to:

  • Track your company documents

  • Receive alerts in case of regulatory updates

  • Anticipate the upcoming 2026 electronic invoicing reform

This avoids wasting time searching for documents and ensures compliance with new obligations.

You may also want to review our insights on the 2026 taxe d’habitation reform for tenants to stay informed about upcoming changes affecting businesses and individuals.

Role of the Accountant

Your accountant also plays an essential role when it comes to it. They can:

  • Verify that the code is correct

  • Assist in updating it if your business activity changes

  • Ensure alignment with your fiscal and social obligations

When in doubt, your accountant remains the most qualified professional to guide you.

Can It Be Modified in Case of Error?

Yes. If it is no longer reflects your company’s actual activity, you can request an update from INSEE.

Steps:

  1. Send a written request to INSEE with a clear description of your activity

  2. Attach supporting documents (website, invoices, brochures, etc.)

  3. Wait for the update, which usually takes a few weeks

Updating it is essential if your business has evolved, ensuring compliance with tax authorities, social bodies, and partners.

Key Takeaways

  • The code APE, assigned by INSEE, reflects your company’s main activity.

  • It can be found for free on the SIRENE directory or your Kbis extract.

  • It directly influences taxation, contributions, collective agreements, and eligibility for support schemes.

  • If your activity changes, you can request a modification.

  • Online tools and your accountant can help you manage and optimize it.

At ESCEC International, we support entrepreneurs and businesses in managing their legal, tax, and accounting obligations in France. Our team ensures that your company details—such as the code APE—are always accurate and aligned with your strategic objectives.

FAQ About the Code APE

What is the code APE in France?

The code APE (Activité Principale Exercée) is an identifier assigned by INSEE that defines the main activity of a company. It is made up of four digits and one letter and appears on documents such as the Kbis extract.

Is the code APE the same as the NAF code?

Yes. The code APE is simply the administrative name given to the NAF code once it has been attributed to a company. Both indicate the main sector of activity of a business.

Where can I find my company’s code APE?

You can find your code APE:

Why is the code APE important for businesses?

The code APE influences your tax regime, contribution rates, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and eligibility for certain grants or exemptions. A wrong code may result in paying higher charges or missing out on financial support.

Can the code APE be changed if it is incorrect?

Yes. If the assigned code does not reflect your actual business activity, you can request a modification by sending a letter to INSEE, along with supporting documents (such as invoices, website information, or brochures).

How can I use the code APE for business strategy?

Knowing your code APE and those of your competitors allows you to:

  • Benchmark industry averages (turnover, workforce, profitability)

  • Identify potential partners and B2B clients

  • Target public funding or tenders dedicated to specific activities