SIRET and SIREN numbers are unique identification codes assigned to businesses and their various establishments by the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE).
While the SIREN number identifies a company as a whole, the SIRET (Système d'Identification du Répertoire des Etablissements) number specifically identifies individual establishments or branches of the business. Every business can have multiple establishments, and each one will receive its own SIRET number, which is essentially an extension of the SIREN number but with added specificity.
A SIRET number is composed of 14 digits in total. The first nine digits correspond to the company’s SIREN number, while the final five digits represent the NIC (Numéro Interne de Classement), which is a unique code that identifies the specific establishment or branch. This system ensures that each physical location or operational branch of a business is distinctly recognized within the administrative framework.
The SIRET number is necessary for any dealings that involve a specific branch or location of a business, and it also plays a role in making your business compliant with various French regulations regarding the display of business information. Just like the SIREN number, the SIRET number must be displayed on all formal business documents, including invoices, employment contracts, and tax filings.