How to get an ISIN code: Complete guide by Overlord

You want create an investment fund and enter the financial markets in full compliance? Obtaining an ISIN code is an essential step in identifying your securities in a unique way internationally. In this article, discover the complete procedure for obtaining this essential code, and how Overlord can help you with every step of the way.

What is an ISIN code and what is it used for?

The ISIN code (International Securities Identification Number) is a unique 12-character identifier, used globally to recognize financial instruments in a standardized manner. Its structure is defined by the ISO 6166 standard. It consists of three components: a Country code (two letters), one National ID of nine characters, and a check cipher. This architecture allows for unambiguous identification, regardless of the type of asset or the market concerned.

Concretely, this code acts as a digital footprint for each title. It is used by all financial players — trading platforms, asset managers, asset managers, regulators, institutions, investors — to automate processing, monitor transactions and ensure regulatory compliance. In particular, the ISIN code is required for integration into trading systems, banking frameworks, reporting tools and financial information portals.

When is the ISIN code mandatory?

The use of the ISIN code is obligatory in many contexts. Among the most frequent are:

• The show ofshares, of social shares Or of participative shares ;
• The creation and management of investment funds (FCP, SICAV, SLP...);
• The launch ofobligations Or ofstructured loans ;
• La asset tokenization within a recognized legal framework;
• The listing on the stock exchange, on regulated or alternative markets.

The ISIN code is also essential to comply with the requirements of the main European regulations: MiFID II, EMIR, DUCITS, PRIIPs, or Solvency II. It is used in all regulatory reports to clearly identify the financial products concerned.

Without an ISIN code, a financial instrument is practically unseen for the IT systems of banks, supervisory authorities and intermediaries. It cannot be referenced in a portfolio, nor integrated into a life insurance contract or a database. Nor can it be valued, analyzed, or distributed effectively.

Who can get an ISIN code and when is it required?

The ISIN code request must be made by the issuer of the security. It can be a trading company, of a investment funds, of a public body, of a SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle), or even a heritage structure. In France, the assignment of the ISIN code is centralized withEuroclear France, designated as the national numbering agency (National Numbering Agency — NNA).

Here are the main cases in which the creation of an ISIN code is required:

• When setting up a company that wishes to issue registered or bearer shares ;
• On the occasion of the establishment of a investment funds, whether regulated or not listed;
• In case ofbond issue for professional or individual investors;
• To register a Tokenized asset on a regulated blockchain, as part of an offer with AMF approval or a PSAN visa;
• Before a IPO, regardless of the target market (Euronext, Euronext Growth, Access...).

More generally, an ISIN is required whenever a financial asset needs to be identified, valued, exchanged or transmitted to third parties. This includes the projects of Fundraising, the operations of private equity, the creation of structured products, or even the structuring of a Club Deal family friendly.

How Overlord helps issuers create their ISIN code

Although apparently administrative, the request for an ISIN code is a technical procedure, which requires rigor, method and foresight. It requires a good understanding of the expectations of the numbering agency, as well as the ability to put together a complete and coherent file. That's where Overlord's expertise makes all the difference.

Overlord has been supporting issuers of all sizes in compiling their ISIN files for several years. Our method is based on a structured process And a constant dialogue with Euroclear to ensure fast turnaround times and frictionless validation.

Here are the key steps in our support:

1. Audit of the legal and financial situation of the issuer: type of structure, purpose of the issue, typology of targeted investors, etc.
2. Preparation of the regulatory file : drafting or validation of the simplified prospectus, verification of the articles of association, compilation of supporting documents (Kbis extract, meeting decision, etc.).
3. Submission of the application to Euroclear France : we use official channels and communicate directly with the teams concerned if necessary.
4. Follow-up until you get the ISIN code : we ensure continuous communication with the client and alert in case of additional requests from the agency.

Our mission doesn't end with getting the code. We also provide our customers with a Post-ISIN guide with the best practices to follow for the valuation, distribution or referencing of the newly registered title.

We work with:

• Of startups Who are about to raise funds
• Of investment funds in the process of structuring
• Of family holdings Wishing to issue shares
• Of SPV LBO or real estate
• Of financial institutions that launch new structured products.

What are the steps to obtain an ISIN code yourself?

It is entirely possible for an emitter to do himself requested the ISIN code, provided that they are rigorous, organized, and well informed about the requirements of the competent national agency. In France, it is Euroclear France who carries out this mission. This option is often chosen by experienced structures or companies with an internal legal department.

Here are the steps to follow to file an application independently:

1. Identify the competent agency

Each country has a National Numbering Agency (NNA). In France, it is Euroclear France. Any request for the assignment of an ISIN code should be sent to her. The organization has technical documentation and a secure portal allowing the transmission of the necessary documents.

2. Prepare a complete file

The application file must include several mandatory elements:

• The statuses of the issuer up to date, specifying the capacity to issue securities;
• One full description of the financial instrument concerned (nominal value, terms of sale, conditions of subscription, etc.);
• One information document (prospectus, simplified note, or equivalent) allowing the agency to assess the nature and functioning of the security;
• Possible decisions of the general meeting, mandates or Kbis extracts depending on the legal structure.

These documents must be clear, coherent and written in appropriate technical language. An inconsistency between the statutes and the information note may lead to a refusal or an extension of the deadlines.

3. Submit the request

Once the file is ready, it can be sent via the channels provided by Euroclear. In general, communication is carried out by electronic way, via an online portal or by direct exchange with a case manager. It is sometimes necessary to respond to additional requests or to reformulate certain elements.

4. Deadlines and costs

The average processing time is 5 to 15 working days, depending on the complexity of the file and the responsiveness of the applicant. During periods of high activity, or in case of missing documents, processing may be extended.

Regarding fees, Euroclear applies a variable price list. For a standard instrument (shares, simple bonds, shares in unlisted companies), the cost is generally between €100 and €500. Additional costs may apply in case of expedited service or complex structured titles.

Limits of an autonomous procedure

Even if it is legally accessible to all, applying for an ISIN can be tedious without support. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Documentary back-and-forth related to poor presentation or incomplete documents;
• Misidentification of the instrument, especially in the case of hybrid assets or innovative products (e.g. tokens);
• High administrative time, especially for single managers or structures without a legal department;
• Pure and simple risk of rejection, especially when the documents are written in-house, without regulatory validation.

This is why a large number of issuers — including experienced funds and holdings — choose to entrust this mission to a third party provider such as Overlord.

Where can I find the ISIN code for an asset that is already listed?

Once assigned, the ISIN code becomes a public data. It is referenced in numerous information bases accessible to all. Here are the main sources to find it:

1. Regulatory documents

Issuers are required to mention the ISIN code in their official documents:

• Universal registration document (URD) or AMF brochures;
• Product sheet or KIID for funds;
• Contractual information in statutes or emission agreements.

2. Financial platforms

Specialized sites allow you to search by product name or by issuing company. The most used are:

• Bloomberg ;
• Morningstar ;
• Bourse zone ;
• Euronext (for listed shares and bonds).

These platforms display the ISIN code directly in the description sheets, in addition to the ticker or the mnemonic code.

3. Banking or insurance interfaces

Savings products (units of account, UCITS, ETFs) referenced by banks or insurers always include their ISIN code in customer support: dashboard, commercial documentation, subscription forms.

This information is essential for monitoring a portfolio, making trade-offs or verifying the composition of a multi-support product.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about the ISIN code

How do I get my ISIN number?

By submitting a request to the national agency (Euroclear France) or by using a third party such as Overlord.

Can you request an ISIN for an unlisted security?

Yes. The ISIN code is not reserved for listed assets. It is often used for shares in companies, non-listed funds, or private debt products.

Is it compatible with tokenization?

Yes. Many digital tokens or assets now benefit from an ISIN code to be integrated into regulated management tools.

Do you need an ISIN to be included in an insurance contract?

Yes. Insurers require an ISIN code to reference a support in their range.

Conclusion

Obtaining an ISIN code is a decisive step in the life cycle of a financial asset. It is he who allows the recognition, transparency and regulated distribution of a title. It is therefore a mandatory step for any serious project leader: investment funds, bond issues, fund raising or structuring an innovative product.

Instead of taking the risk of delays or rejections, call in an expert in the field. Overlord accompanies you from A to Z, with a proven method, direct contact with the EuroClear organization, and an ability to deal with standard as well as the most complex cases.

Ready to secure your ISIN application? Make an appointment with an Overlord expert today.