The difference between SIRET and SIREN may not be obvious at first glance, but it's actually quite simple to grasp in theory.
Learn more about two key concepts to differentiate these identification numbers!
The SIRET is the unique identification number for a geographically located establishment where the company's economic activity takes place. Thus, if a company operates from several premises, each of these will have its own SIRET.
The SIRET consists of a fourteen-digit identifier corresponding to the SIREN number, to which is added an additional number, the NIC (Numéro Interne au Classification). This NIC, which characterizes the geographical location of the premises, must be changed if the company's address changes.
On the administrative side, the SIRET is required to appear on a number of documents, such as invoices and pay slips for employees working in the establishment in question.
To obtain this identification number, the company must register with the CFE (Centre de Formalité des Entreprises) corresponding to its activity. INSEE will then take the necessary steps and issue the company with a SIRET.
In other words: SIRET = SIREN + NIC
The SIRET therefore represents the establishment as a geographical unit where the economic activity of the legal unit (identified by the SIREN) is carried out.
The SIREN is a unique inter-administrative identification number for a legal unit. This legal unit can be either a natural person or a legal entity.
Knowing a company's SIREN allows you to find all its financial and legal information on the Internet via search platforms.
The SIREN is made up of eight digits, with a ninth to check the validity of the number. This identifier has no particular significance.
Like the SIRET, the SIREN is assigned when a company registers with a business formalities center, and is listed in INSEE's SIRENE database. The SIRET and SIREN are therefore obtained when a company is created. You can obtain all this information on Infogreffe.fr!
The SIREN is also one of the components of several other numbers assigned by government agencies. These include the Trade and Companies Register number (RCS), the Intra-Community Market Operator number (VAT) and the Trade Register number.
The SIREN refers to the company's legal unit.
The SIREN and SIRET will only be deleted in certain cases for individuals and legal entities. This will be in the event of death or cessation of activity for a natural person, and liquidation for a legal entity.
SIRET and SIREN: what are the differences?
Although the two numbers are quite similar, with only the five digits of the NIC varying, they cover very different corporate realities. In any case, these two numbers make it possible to identify a company administratively speaking, and to track its activities.
SIREN : identification number for a legal unit (natural or legal person)
SIRET: identification number for a geographical unit where all or part of the economic activity of a legal unit is carried out.
Written by our expert Audrey Nouvel
September 20, 2017
