INSEE (Institut National de la Statistique et des Études Économiques)
The INSEE (Institut National de la Statistique et des Études Économiques) is France’s national institute for statistics and economic studies. In addition to collecting and publishing economic and demographic data, INSEE plays an important role in the identification and registration of businesses in France.
When a company is established, INSEE assigns several identification numbers, including the SIREN number, the SIRET number and the APE Code. These identifiers are essential for the company's administrative and legal identification.
What are the responsibilities of INSEE?
INSEE is responsible for a wide range of statistical and administrative tasks, including:
- Collecting and publishing economic statistics.
- Analysing demographic and social data.
- Registering businesses.
- Assigning SIREN and SIRET numbers.
- Determining the APE Code (business activity code).
- Managing official business registers.
What do the SIREN and SIRET numbers mean?
When a company is established in France, INSEE assigns a unique identification number.
SIREN number
- Consists of 9 digits.
- Identifies the company as a legal entity.
- Comparable to the company registration number in Belgium.
SIRET number
- Consists of 14 digits.
- Identifies a specific establishment of the company.
- Is composed of the SIREN number and an additional establishment identifier.
These numbers are used for virtually all administrative formalities in France.
INSEE and the APE Code
In addition to assigning identification numbers, INSEE also assigns an APE Code (Activité Principale Exercée). This code indicates the main economic activity carried out by a company.
The APE Code plays an important role in:
- Classification of the company's business sector.
- Statistical classifications.
- Determining the applicable collective bargaining agreement (convention collective).
- Various administrative formalities.
It is therefore important that the APE Code accurately reflects the company's actual business activities.
Why is INSEE important for employers?
Employers typically deal with INSEE from the moment they start operating in France. The identification numbers and business activity code assigned by the institute are essential for:
- Company registration.
- Social security and tax filings.
- Payroll administration.
- Communication with French authorities.
- Hiring employees in France.
Without these identification details, many administrative procedures cannot be carried out correctly.
INSEE for foreign companies
Foreign companies that employ staff in France or open a branch there may also need to register with INSEE. Proper registration often forms the basis for subsequent social security, tax and HR obligations.
Good preparation helps avoid administrative delays and errors.
Have questions about a SIREN number, SIRET number or APE Code? I would be happy to assist you with the administrative setup and employment of staff in France.