12. What is a Global Intermediary Identification Number (GIIN)?

The Global Intermediary Identification Number* (GIIN) is a number issued by the US Internal Revenue Service* (IRS) via the IRS registration portal.

All participating foreign financial institutions* need to register with the IRS to obtain a GIIN.

It applies to financial institutions that have adopted FATCA either through an intergovernmental agreement* or as a choice, being a Model 2 foreign financial institution*.

Certain deemed-compliant or non-reporting financial institutions must also obtain a GIIN.

The GIIN is a unique reference number that has a specific format and is issued to identify each financial institution. Each part of the number has a particular meaning. For example, it tells you whether the financial institution is part of a bigger group or whether the financial institution is a sponsoring entity. It also identifies the financial institution jurisdiction of residence in which it maintains a branch that is not treated as a 'limited' branch.

*For any defined terms please see the Table of terms and definitions.